Former Microsoft executive says new Windows-based Xbox consoles need Steam to curb piracy

Many gamers have questioned the idea of new Xbox consoles running on Windows. However, a former Microsoft executive and Blizzard President believes the devices can be successful. Responding to criticism on social media, Mike Ybarra explains why Microsoft's embracing of Steam was essential. Not only is Valve’s marketplace extremely popular, but it can also curtail piracy.

Ybarra replied to an argument that the ROG Xbox Ally handhelds should use the Xbox Series X|S OS. Microsoft’s shift away from traditional Xbox consoles also includes abandoning the software they run on. According to Ybarra, Windows 11 can be an alternative, but only if Steam plays a central role.

Piracy is far more common on PCs than on current-gen consoles like the Xbox Series X and PS5. Unlike on these gaming systems, users don’t have to make physical modifications to bypass protections. Although often circumvented by hackers, Steam’s integrated DRM prevents unauthorized copies of games.

Without Steam, Ybarra thinks that gamers will be more tempted to pirate Xbox games and third-party titles. Still, it’s not just security protocols that make it a critical addition to future Xbox consoles. The one-time Xbox executive calls the marketplace a “flawless experience with a great return policy”.  Meanwhile, Windows is “far from a flawless experience and will *never* be one.”

How Xbox is still playing catch-up to Steam

Microsoft allows returns of digital game purchases in some cases, even if the process isn’t as streamlined. Yet, buyers find that Steam has other consumer-friendly qualities. Gamers can build a growing library of titles that are accessible from a single interface. The new Xbox full-screen experience tries to streamline Windows for this purpose. Nevertheless, ROG Xbox Ally owners may prefer loading Steam in a dedicated window.

Steam, which recently passed the 41.6 million concurrent player mark, also keeps players loyal with community-driven features. Its rating/review system, game-specific forums, and mod workshops are all advantages over the Microsoft Store and Game Pass.

Ybarra has already declared existing Xbox hardware dead. Microsoft may be shifting more of the burden for console development to manufacturers like AMD and Asus. Even so, he concludes that any Xbox-branded system relying on Windows must make Steam as accessible as possible.