Microsoft’s CEO, Satya Nadella, has recently given insights suggesting that the upcoming Xbox console may resemble a PC more than a traditional gaming console. In a discussion with TBPN, he elaborated on the company’s gaming ambitions, touching upon the forthcoming console and acknowledging Steam as a key competitor within the gaming landscape. He also highlighted Microsoft’s status as a significant player in the gaming publishing domain.

Nadella remarked, “For us, gaming on Windows is paramount… and Steam has created a vast marketplace, attaining great success.” He continued, “With our position as one of the largest publishers post the Activision acquisition, our aim is to excel in publishing, similar to our strategy with Microsoft Office. Our goal is to be present across all platforms.”

He further added, “Whether it’s through consoles, PCs, mobile devices, cloud gaming, or television, we focus on ensuring that players can enjoy games wherever they are.”

Regarding the future of hardware, Nadella stated, “We also intend to pursue innovative advancements in both console and PC systems. It’s amusing how many view consoles and PCs as entirely separate entities. Our intention with the console was to create an enhanced PC capable of delivering superior gaming performance. I believe it’s time to reassess that common perception.”

This conversation comes shortly after rumors suggested that Microsoft would not be launching another console following the Xbox Series. These claims were refuted by Xbox president Sarah Bond, who emphasized the “premium” experience of the upcoming Xbox, describing it as a “curated” offering, similar to the ROG Xbox Ally.

The ROG Xbox Ally has received mixed reviews, with some critics labeling it as “an impressive handheld PC donning an Xbox façade.” Others have expressed nostalgia for the Xbox’s earlier successes, while some gamers noted that the inclusion of applications like OneDrive detracts from the gaming experience compared to platforms like the Steam Deck.

The question remains: could this ‘Xbox PC’ be packed with OneDrive, Co-Pilot, and other non-gaming-centric applications? Only time will reveal the answer.