Microsoft recently made headlines by announcing its partnership with AMD for the next generation of Xbox hardware. While unsurprising, this collaboration sparks an important discussion about the future of gaming.

Beyond revealing AMD's involvement in Xbox's chip development, the more significant takeaway is Microsoft's commitment to transforming Windows into the premier gaming platform. Following last week's ROG Xbox Ally X reveal, speculation suggests the next Xbox may closely resemble a gaming PC.

A Deeper Windows Integration

Recent Xbox generations have progressively blurred the line between consoles and PCs, particularly through their operating systems. The Xbox Series X interface bears striking similarities to Windows, especially noticeable for users familiar with Windows 8 and 10.

In Microsoft's AMD collaboration video, Xbox president Sarah Bond emphasized their vision: enabling gamers to "play what they want, with whom they want, wherever they want." This philosophy isn't new - Microsoft's Play Anywhere initiative has championed cross-platform accessibility for years.

As someone who games across multiple platforms, I appreciate Play Anywhere's seamless progression. Bond's mention of an "Xbox experience not locked to a single store" suggests potential integration with Steam, Epic Games Store, and other launchers in future consoles.

This direction aligns with Microsoft's recent ASUS collaboration on a device supporting multiple PC stores. Given this precedent, broader store compatibility seems inevitable.

ROG Xbox Ally X: Pioneering the Concept

The ROG Xbox Ally X stands apart from other Windows handhelds through its customized Windows version. While specifics remain unclear, we know it eliminates unnecessary desktop elements during gaming sessions.

Most notably, it boots directly into a redesigned Xbox app, bypassing the traditional desktop interface. This approach mirrors SteamOS's streamlined Linux implementation on Steam Deck, prioritizing gaming performance through simplified system access.

Such optimization would prove essential for a Windows-based Xbox. Consoles traditionally outperform similarly specced PCs precisely because their streamlined software maximizes hardware efficiency.

Why Xbox Should Embrace PC DNA

The PC gaming market faces affordability challenges despite technological advancements. Even promising devices like the Lenovo Legion Go with SteamOS carry premium price tags compared to traditional consoles.

Microsoft partially contributes to this cost disparity through Windows licensing fees, explaining why similarly specced devices like ROG Ally exceed Steam Deck's price point.

Consoles traditionally offset hardware costs through game sales and licensing. Applying this model to a specialized gaming PC could democratize access to PC gaming's growing market.

With graphics card prices remaining stubbornly high, Microsoft's potential hybrid console-PC could provide exactly the accessibility boost PC gaming currently needs.