open_in_newOriginal article
Microsoft crawls back to Steam ahead of schedule by leaking a screenshot of an app where you can launch Steam games through Xbox

Microsoft crawls back to Steam ahead of schedule by leaking a screenshot of an app where you can launch Steam games through Xbox

  • 21.03.2025 15:15
  • pcgamer.com
  • Keywords: AI, Startup

Microsoft accidentally leaked a screenshot of an upcoming Xbox app that allows launching Steam games, revealing plans to integrate with the platform. Despite efforts to enhance the app, its history of poor user interfaces raises questions about whether this new feature will improve gaming experiences or simply join forces with competitors like Steam.

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Estimated market influence

Microsoft

Microsoft

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Analyst rating: Strong buy

The article discusses Microsoft's attempt to integrate Steam into their Xbox app, which was leaked early. The company is trying to improve its gaming interface but has faced challenges in the past.

Steam

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Analyst rating: N/A

Steam is mentioned as a competitor that Microsoft is trying to integrate with their Xbox app. This could potentially bring more users into Steam's ecosystem.

Context

Analysis and Summary: Microsoft's Attempt to Integrate Steam into Xbox App

Market Trends

  • Leak in 2023: Microsoft accidentally leaked a screenshot of an upcoming Xbox app feature that integrates Steam game launching.
  • Historical Context: PC Gamer's Tyler Wilde predicted this move back in 2019, highlighting Microsoft's return to integrating multiple gaming platforms.

Business Impact

  • User Experience Concerns: The current Xbox app has faced criticism for a poor user interface, raising questions about the success of the new feature.
  • Potential Consolidation: The integration could offer a consolidated platform for launching both Game Pass and Steam games, enhancing convenience for users.

Competitive Landscape

  • Steam's Dominance: Valve's Steam remains a dominant force, as seen with the success of Assassin's Creed: Valhalla on the platform.
  • Market Competition: Microsoft's move may impact competition with other platforms like Epic Games Store and GOG, potentially altering consumer access to games.

Strategic Considerations

  • Leveraging Game Pass: The integration could enhance Microsoft's Game Pass service by offering a broader library, but success hinges on improving the app's UI.
  • Regulatory Risks: While not explicitly mentioned, potential monopolistic practices could attract regulatory scrutiny if the platform becomes too dominant.

Long-term Effects

  • Consumer Impact: Consolidation might lead to improved deals and features but risks reducing diversity in gaming storefronts.
  • Market Dynamics: The move reflects Microsoft's strategic shift towards collaboration rather than direct competition with Steam.

This analysis underscores the potential benefits and challenges Microsoft faces as they attempt to integrate Steam into their Xbox app, highlighting both opportunities for user convenience and risks related to market dominance and user experience.