The CEO of gaming at Microsoft, Phil Spencer gave understanding into the future of handheld gaming for the Xbox ecosystem in a recent interview with Polygon. Spencer’s remarks have caused anxiety among the gamers and the enthusiasts of the industry as rumours spread about the possibility of Microsoft’s entry into the handheld gaming market.
Spencer’s quest for the ultimate portable Xbox experience
Spencer showed his desire for a handheld Xbox device that gives a seamless gaming experience akin to its console counterpart in the interview. Drawing comparisons to existing handheld PC gaming devices, such as the Lenovo Legion Go, Spencer noted their shortcomings in delivering a true Xbox experience. He insisted on the importance of a user interface that reflects the familiar Xbox dashboard, allowing gamers to access their favorite titles with less effort.
“I want to be able to boot into the Xbox app in a full screen, but in a compact mode,” Spencer remarked. “I want it to feel like the dash of my Xbox when I turn on the television, [except I want it] on those devices.”
Spencer’s vision goes beyond mere portability; he envisions a handheld device that seamlessly integrates with the Xbox ecosystem, including features like cross-save compatibility. He cited Fallout 76 as an example, lamenting the lack of continuity between his Xbox saves and the version he played on his Legion Go.
Two paths to a portable Xbox experience
In contemplating the potential development of a handheld Xbox, Spencer outlined two distinct approaches. The first involves the creation of a dedicated first-party handheld device engineered by Microsoft itself. While Spencer refrained from divulging specific details regarding its design, he hinted at considerations regarding form factor and ergonomics.
The second approach focuses on software solutions aimed at extending the Xbox experience to a variety of Windows-based gaming devices. Spencer emphasized the importance of ensuring that players can enjoy Xbox titles seamlessly across different platforms without compromising on quality. While acknowledging the progress made through initiatives like Xbox Game Pass, Spencer acknowledged that further enhancements are necessary to achieve this vision fully.
“Gamers may not necessarily be dedicated to the Xbox as a console, but they still want to play its games and have the same experience,” Spencer explained. “We want players to choose any Windows-based gaming device and have the best possible experience without feeling like a ‘lesser Xbox player.’”
A glimpse into the future of Xbox gaming
While the prospect of a dedicated handheld Xbox device remains speculative, Spencer’s comments underscore Microsoft’s commitment to expanding the accessibility and versatility of the Xbox ecosystem. Whether through innovative hardware solutions or refined software integration, the company aims to ensure that gamers can enjoy their favorite titles seamlessly across different platforms.
As expectations increase within the gaming community, all eyes are on Microsoft to see how they will navigate the evolving landscape of handheld gaming. While Spencer’s remarks may fuel speculation, they also offer a glimpse into the potential future of Xbox gaming—a future that promises to break down barriers and redefine the notion of portable gaming experiences.