Sony may block PlayStation Steam games on new Xbox console, dashing hopes for a cross-platform system
The possibility of a new Xbox console modeled after a Windows PC has intrigued multi-platform gamers. An increasing number of PlayStation games are available on Steam. At the same time, rumors suggest that Microsoft may integrate Valve's marketplace into a new gaming system. However, Jez Corden of Windows Central believes Sony will block its PC titles from any Xbox console.
A debate ensued when Corden made his bold prediction on X. The journalist who leaked several Xbox developments compared the situation to Nvidia GeForce Now. The God of War PC port was initially streamable on the cloud gaming service before being removed. That immediately drew sharp criticism from Jon Clarke of XboxEra and others, calling it a false analogy.
PlayStation games aren't the only titles not present on GeForce Now. Elden Ring is one of the most popularly requested games missing from the service. Since Nvidia charges a subscription fee, publishers feel entitled to a cut of the proceeds. That has led some gamers to explore alternatives like Boosteroid. Until Sony intervenes, the browser-based service even works with PlayStation PC ports on Xbox consoles.
Other gamers have pointed out that there is no precedent for blocking Steam titles on Windows machines. If a new Xbox console uses Microsoft's OS, Sony would have to find a creative way to prevent Steam titles from booting or stop publishing titles on the Valve marketplace.
PlayStation fans may soon see PC ports working on a Microsoft-branded system. The Verge recently reported on the rumored Project Kennan, a handheld gaming PC manufactured by Asus. The device could feature an Xbox-style design, combining the interface of existing Microsoft consoles with the Windows OS. According to Corden, Microsoft still plans on releasing another Xbox handheld or gaming PC by 2027.
The gaming landscape is becoming increasingly complex, with former Xbox exclusives debuting on the PS5. Now, players are wondering if PlayStation's cross platform games will appear on a new Xbox console.
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