Adding games from Microsoft’s other studios, such as Gears of War: E-Day and Perfect Dark, even without third-party titles like Assassin’s Creed Shadows, the showcase was substantial. It feels like Microsoft has fully realized its vision since adopting the “Xbox” name for Windows: Xbox has transitioned from a console to a comprehensive game development conglomerate.

Microsoft’s next Xbox is expected to be a powerhouse, likely leading to more discussions about transistors when it’s revealed. However, the idea that consoles are essentially PCs for your TV is increasingly accurate. 

A more powerful Xbox won’t change the decline of console exclusivity (Nintendo being the exception), and the long-standing war between tech giants and their dedicated fans seems to be winding down. Occasional Xbox vs PlayStation debates still occur, but they feel more like historical reenactments.

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The Future for Post-Console War Microsoft

Microsoft may have “won” the summer showcase season, but what does that mean when characters like Marcus Fenix and Kratos are available on Steam? Why did Microsoft acquire so many studios if selling Xbox exclusives is no longer a priority?

One answer is the expansion of Game Pass, though many PC gamers are likely to remain loyal to their Steam libraries. PC gamers were initially resistant to Steam, so Microsoft’s focus on a subscription model might be a calculated risk.

If these acquisitions aim to bolster Game Pass, concerns arise about their fate if Game Pass growth doesn’t meet shareholders’ expectations. Recent layoffs and studio closures do not inspire confidence in stability.

The combat scene in Avowed, featuring the player character facing a plague-ridden bear with a longsword, symbolizes Microsoft’s rocky relationship with PC gamers. This relationship has fluctuated between feelings of abandonment and concerns over excessive control, especially after Microsoft’s focus shifted to Xbox in the early 2000s. The launch of Windows 8 almost led to open rebellion from prominent figures like Gabe Newell.

Thriving PC Gaming Industry

Currently, PC gaming is thriving, and Microsoft’s renewed interest is welcome yet worrisome. Relations have improved recently: Windows 11 is satisfactory (despite its subpar search function), Xbox console exclusives are a thing of the past, and Microsoft has eased up on pushing the Microsoft Store. However, apprehension remains about Microsoft owning both the OS and many top PC developers.

Two emerging trends offer hope: the rise of “weird little games” and the success of the Steam Deck, demonstrating that the definition of PC gaming can still evolve.

For Microsoft, the ideal outcome would be genuinely prioritizing the creation of great games. While skepticism remains (you don’t acquire Call of Duty for purely artistic reasons), there doesn’t seem to be pressure on studios like Obsidian or inXile to develop aggressive gacha games. Exciting trailers for titles like Doom: The Dark Ages, Fable, and Avowed generate a blend of anticipation and nervous energy, suggesting an open future for Microsoft’s gaming ventures.