Microsoft says Xbox will stay on Steam while expanding PC gaming initiatives
Microsoft clarified that it has no plans to leave Steam, but is strengthening its Xbox Game Pass, PC app, and partnerships to grow its presence in the Windows gaming market.
Microsoft refuted recent rumors that it might abandon Steam, stating that the company remains committed to supporting the platform while pursuing a broader strategy for PC gaming. The clarification came after a live podcast discussion was misinterpreted by some news aggregators.
Xbox will continue to release titles on Steam, including upcoming releases such as Gears of War: E-Day, which will launch exclusively on Xbox consoles but also appear on PC via Steam and the Xbox PC app. The company is focusing on its Game Pass subscription to attract users who prefer subscription models or cost-saving options.
The Xbox PC app is receiving significant updates, adding an Xbox Mode that optimizes the Windows 11 desktop for controller use. Microsoft is also working with publishers such as Ubisoft and EA to integrate their stores into the Xbox ecosystem, allowing cross-platform features like free upgrades from console to PC versions.
According to multiple trusted sources, Microsoft and Blizzard are planning to open the Battle.net launcher to third-party developers, potentially expanding its catalog beyond Blizzard titles. Microsoft has already tested launching Xbox games through Battle.net, including Avowed and The Outer Worlds 2.
The company’s “Positron” platform, expected to be announced in August, aims to convert disc-based Xbox games into digital licenses that support Xbox Play Anywhere, giving users access to both console and PC versions where licensing permits.
Microsoft is also extending its backward-compatibility emulator to PC, initially supporting a handful of original Xbox titles with plans to add Xbox 360 games later. This move could broaden the library of classic games available to PC players.
Industry observers note that the Xbox PC store still lags behind Steam in areas such as search functionality and game discovery, and indie developers cite lengthy certification processes as a barrier. Nonetheless, Microsoft’s increased investment in its PC offerings is intended to give developers more distribution options and to keep gamers within the Windows ecosystem.
"We remain committed to supporting Steam while expanding our own PC services," a Microsoft spokesperson said.
Analysts say the strategy reflects Microsoft’s aim to capture a larger share of the lucrative PC gaming market without directly displacing existing platforms.