Microsoft's Xbox app on Windows PCs is now listing the many games installed in one's computer under one unified launcher, automatically detecting them from other clients and platforms. Despite users purchasing their games from other platforms, the Xbox app will now include it under its launcher, allowing players to launch it directly without having to open multiple clients at once.
Last week, Microsoft launched the beta tests for this new "aggregated game library" experience on the Xbox app for Windows.
Xbox App on PC Lists Steam, Epic Games, and More Titles
Microsoft's PC Gaming Preview launched the unified experience last week for all users who are part of the program, designating all PC games found installed in one's computer to be listed under the Xbox app on Windows. It is currently available under the beta, but The Verge's Tom Warren shared more details about what the entire experience looks like and what it brings to the table.
In the actual tests, Microsoft stayed true to its word by incorporating all of the games found in one's PC to be part of the new Xbox app experience, giving Windows users a one-stop-shop for all gaming needs. The platform would automatically detect games installed in one's PC despite them hailing from different platforms, and this new launcher would also include dedicated thumbnails for them.
Despite being under the Xbox app in this setting, Microsoft still includes the name of the client or platform where it was bought and installed from. This would also serve as a clarification to players who may get confused in the future about where to get DLCs and additional content.
Titles from platforms like Steam, Epic Games, Battle.net, Ubisoft, and Riot Games have appeared in the launcher. It is expected that Microsoft will expand the list of supported clients that would have their games aggregated into the Xbox app.
The company's efforts center on making the Xbox app the "home of PC gaming" on Windows as part of its broader approach to expand into handheld gaming platforms coming soon via the ROG Xbox Ally.
One Windows PC Game Launcher for All
The new Xbox app experience on Windows will only list all the games installed in one's PC to provide an aggregated platform to launch the titles. This means that users would not get any progress or Xbox achievements when they play these titles in the process.
Apart from being able to see all the games from their Windows PCs, users may also opt to hide the games from their Xbox app library should they wish to do so. This could be done via the Settings menu under "Library & Extension," with each client getting an on and off "Hide" button.
