Microsoft has taken a major step toward unifying the PC gaming experience by adding Steam games to its Xbox PC app on Windows. This new feature, currently available to Xbox Insiders, allows users to view and manage their Steam and Battle.net titles alongside Xbox and Microsoft Store games, transforming the Xbox app into a comprehensive launcher for most installed PC games.
With this update, Microsoft aims to position the Xbox app as the central hub for PC gaming, directly rivaling platforms like Steam and SteamOS. The aggregated library feature enables users to see all their games from different storefronts in one place, making it easier to keep track of their collection and jump into their favorite titles.
This move reflects Microsoft’s broader strategy to merge the best of Windows and Xbox gaming, offering gamers a seamless and organized experience across devices.
How the Integration Works
Once enabled, the Xbox app automatically detects installed games from Steam and Battle.net, displaying them in the user’s library. While the app serves as a unified launcher, it’s important to note that launching a Steam game will still require Steam to open in the background. The same applies to other third-party launchers, meaning the Xbox app acts as an aggregator rather than a replacement for these platforms.
Users can manage the visibility of their games and storefronts through the Library Extensions section in the Xbox app settings. This flexibility allows gamers to customize their experience and choose which titles appear in their unified library.
Future Expansion and Availability
Microsoft has indicated that support for additional PC storefronts will be rolled out progressively, further expanding the reach of the Xbox app’s aggregated library. The feature is expected to launch for all users later this year, with upcoming support for new devices such as ROG Xbox Ally handhelds.
For those eager to try the new functionality now, joining the Xbox Insider program through the Xbox Insider Hub on Windows will grant early access to the aggregated library preview.
What This Means for PC Gamers
The integration of Steam games into the Xbox PC app marks a significant evolution in how gamers organize and access their libraries. While users will still need to rely on original launchers to play their games, the convenience of a single, unified view streamlines the process of managing large collections across multiple platforms.
As Microsoft continues to enhance the Xbox app with more storefront integrations and features, PC gamers can look forward to an increasingly cohesive and user-friendly gaming ecosystem on Windows.
