GDC 2025 blog for Xbox showcased a ‘Steam’ tab inside a UI mock-up

A new Xbox campaign ‘Opening a Bill Doors’ for GDC 2025 blog talked about making games more accessible. However, a mock-up image of what seems to be the new UI for Xbox had a section called ‘Steam’. This has now led to some speculations in the community regarding the ability to play Steam games on the console.

The section was seen as the cover image for the blog which was quickly changed to a different image, but not quickly enough as people have already grabbed a copy. Below is the first image from the blog grabbed by XboxEra. May be it's something Xbox is considering, or maybe it's nothing, let's explore possibilities.

“We believe that gamers should be able to play the games they want, with the people they want, anywhere they want. Central to this vision is empowering game creators to deliver exceptional content across all platforms seamlessly. Our goal is simple: to make every screen in the world an Xbox,” the blog wrote.

Future Xbox app may support Steam and other platforms

This aligns with Xbox’s statement to make gaming more accessible, but if by allowing users to play the ‘games they want’ Xbox means from other platforms, the company may be planning something different from what people expect. With Steam being there, there’s also speculation that other platforms like Epic Games, GOG, and others may also be present. However, the question is why?

Xbox also plans to create a new Hybrid OS that mixes Windows and Xbox allowing better gaming experience and compatibility. While no details are revealed, many suspect that the next console and other places with the Xbox app will also be updated, potentially allowing gamers to buy games across any platform and play on any supported device, hopefully. Once again, these are all speculations, but having the ability to purchase on Steam and play on Xbox sounds very nice.

Also Read:Asus reported to be Microsoft’s partner for Xbox gaming handheld device

Xbox to provide floating licenses for video games?

Another feature that sounds very interesting is the Xbox Play Anywhere which allows players to purchase the game once and play it across any PC, Xbox consoles, and supported handhelds along with cross-save and cross-progression.

The idea is that players own a digital game with Xbox Play Anywhere support which then can be played across any device of your choice without making a second purchase. Since digital games are basically licenses to play the game, they can be shifted, allowing users to play on their platform of preference.