March 29, just like other game consoles, Microsoft’s Xbox Series S/X only provides its own store for players to purchase games and other content. However, this situation may soon change.
When asked in an interview with Polygon whether players might see third-party digital game stores on Xbox consoles in the future, such as the Epic Games store and Itch.io, Phil Spencer, the CEO of Microsoft’s gaming division, gave a positive response and mentioned, “Think about Microsoft’s history in the PC field. When using a PC, players can freely choose the platform to purchase games, which is very valuable.”
One consideration for introducing third-party game stores is to expand the reach of Xbox’s hardware and services to more player groups. Spencer mentioned in an earlier interview that one of the biggest challenges facing the gaming industry is the lack of growth in the number of players. By accepting third-party stores on Xbox consoles, it can attract player groups who are accustomed to freely choosing game purchase platforms on PCs.
Of course, the largest digital game store in the PC gaming field is Valve’s Steam platform. Valve is also expanding the reach of its store through its own handheld Steam Deck. Although it is not yet clear whether Steam can land on Xbox consoles, it is not entirely impossible. Similarly, it is not impossible to introduce Epic Games Store, GOG.com, and indie-game-focused Itch.io to Microsoft consoles.
In short, Spencer seems to be actively seeking to break through traditional thinking and attract more players to join the gaming world, buy Microsoft hardware, and use its gaming services. Let’s wait and see what specific measures Microsoft will take in the future.
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