Microsoft’s Xbox App on Windows Shows Console Games

Something unusual is occurring with Microsoft’s Xbox app on Windows. In recent days, the Xbox PC app has begun displaying Xbox console games within its library. Although users cannot install games such as the original Alan Wake for Xbox 360, it appears in the “My PC Games” list if owned.

This phenomenon is likely not a mere glitch but rather a reflection of Microsoft’s strategy to integrate its Xbox and Windows stores more closely. In March, I reported on this initiative, when I revealed in Notepad, which includes collaboration with Asus on a Project Kennan handheld device. This effort is part of a broader plan by Microsoft to unify Windows and Xbox, aiming for a universal library encompassing both Xbox and PC games.

Additionally, this initiative involves making games from Steam and the Epic Games Store visible in the Xbox PC app library. Earlier this year, Microsoft accidentally revealed mockup images demonstrated the integration of Steam games into the Xbox PC library. Sources familiar with the company’s plans indicated that Microsoft is developing an update for the Xbox app that will display every game installed on a user’s PC.

Over the past year, Microsoft has also been working on making the Xbox app the home of PC gaming, and it has recently started referring to its Xbox PC app simply as “Xbox PC.” This rebranding was first noted in Microsoft’s announcement announcement regarding Gears of War: Reloaded. Furthermore, a new gameplay trailer for MIO: Memories In Orbit showcases the Xbox PC branding and logo, which will be used to inform PC players about games available on the Microsoft Store.

Microsoft is also merging ‘the best of Xbox and Windows together’ for handheld devices, with changes expected later this year. The company is actively desperate need of a response to SteamOS, especially as PC manufacturers like Lenovo begin to implement SteamOS on their own handheld gaming PCs.

These developments regarding the Xbox PC app and handheld gaming suggest that Microsoft is nearing a clearer strategy for listing additional games within the Xbox PC app. A significant question remains whether Xbox console games will be playable on PC. Microsoft may need to utilize its cloud infrastructure to facilitate this unless it achieves a breakthrough in emulation technology, potentially allowing users to play classic Xbox games on their PCs.