Six Reasons Why Microsoft’s Portable Xbox Could Outshine the Steam Deck
Bringing Xbox Games to PC
Microsoft has made significant strides in allowing players to enjoy games from previous Xbox consoles, even reaching back to the original Xbox. With the introduction of a new handheld gaming system, Microsoft has the potential to take this a step further by making old Xbox titles available for play on a Windows-based platform. This would be the first time these classics could be officially accessed on a PC system.
Enabling gamers to download and play titles from the Xbox 360 era and earlier would be an appealing feature for any mobile Xbox device. Although this requires technical expertise, the same emulation technology responsible for backward compatibility on Xbox consoles could be adapted for PCs with some effort. This endeavor would be simpler if Microsoft were to create a specific handheld system, as they would have complete knowledge of the hardware configuration used in the device.
Imagine being able to play beloved games like Geometry Wars 2 without having to resort to unreliable third-party emulators. Gamers would definitely find value in that.
Various Hardware Options
On the home console front, Microsoft’s simultaneous launch of the Xbox Series S and Series X demonstrates an understanding that not every consumer wants to invest in the most powerful gaming hardware. This strategy could be applied to mobile devices by introducing a range of portable Xbox systems tailored for different budgets.
The manufacturing of diverse hardware models offers a clear edge. While more powerful versions may include enhanced graphics performance, Microsoft might also consider designs that prioritize portability, similar to the Nintendo Switch Lite. Another option could be different screen sizes or improved display quality, akin to what the Steam Deck OLED and the Switch OLED present.
A "Made for Xbox" Program
One of the appealing aspects of console gaming is the assurance that any game purchased for a specific system will run seamlessly. Valve has attempted to replicate this confidence for PC gaming handhelds with a "Deck Verified" program, ensuring that specific Steam games perform well on portable devices.
Microsoft is in an excellent position to collaborate with game developers to establish a similar initiative for its Xbox-branded handheld. A "Made for Xbox" verification would provide gamers the reassurance that games designed for their Xbox handheld would operate smoothly, mirroring the console experience.
Implementing this kind of verification could also clarify system requirements for different tiers of hardware. For instance, any handheld identified as "level 2" would be compatible with games classified as level 2 and below, helping players make informed decisions based on their device’s capability.
Conclusion
By offering backward compatibility for older Xbox titles and introducing diverse hardware options, Microsoft could position itself as a leader in the portable gaming market. The implementation of a verification program would further enhance the experience, ensuring that gamers enjoy their favorite titles without hassle. Such steps would signify Microsoft’s commitment to improving gaming accessibility and satisfaction among players, whether they are at home or on the go.
