Xbox Game Pass ‘Might Be Coming To Steam’
Microsoft is branching out further, with the latest rumours claiming the all-star Xbox Game Pass could be about to come to Steam. Gaming subscription services are everywhere right now, but when it comes to the big two of Microsoft and Sony, these goliaths are duking it out in a huge way. While Sony has the sometimes complicated package of PlayStation Now and PlayStation Plus, Microsoft has kept it a little more simple with its tiered Xbox Game Pass.
Whether you want the base level of Xbox Game Pass or stump up for Ultimate to gain access to the likes of Xbox Cloud Gaming, there's something for everyone. Helping give Microsoft a leg up over the competition in 2021, the massive acquisition of ZeniMax media means Bethesda favourites including Fallout and The Elder Scrolls are now part of the Game Pass family. If it comes to Steam as well, gaming domination is well within Microsoft's sights.
Is the Xbox Game Pass coming to Steam?
According to industry insider Tyler McVicker - known for all things Valve - Steam could be preparing to embrace Xbox Game Pass. In a YouTube video, one fan asked, "Is Valve considering a subscription on Steam, like Game Pass". McVicker quickly responded with a simple, "Valve is trying to get Game Pass on Steam...Boom". Unfortunately, he doesn't reveal any more information or where he got his scoop.
Microsoft Boss Phil Spencer has already said he wants to see Game Pass on as many platforms as possible, but with this meaning Xbox Live Gold would have to be available on all of the same, it's why we haven't already seen Game Pass on the Nintendo and PlayStation storefronts. Of course, there's the worry that putting Game Pass on Steam would pull players away from the traditional Xbox app. Microsoft will have to weigh up whether it's worth the potential monetary uptick of having another way to play Game Pass or whether it will dilute the market.
Should Xbox Game Pass come to Steam?
In terms of PC, Valve is the dominant gaming storefront, so it makes a lot of sense that Valve is chasing Game Pass if you consider how big it's grown in just the past few months. It's also great news for Xbox Game Pass if Valve can help bring it to the masses. All in all, it sounds like a lucrative deal for both sides. The question is, what happens to the rest? We've already seen Epic try to muscle into Valve's market with the Epic Games Store. It's been a slow process, but the Fortnite favourite has slowly been chipping away at Steam's stronghold. With the might of Microsoft behind Steam, it could decimate the work Epic has already put in.
On the whole, Microsoft stats claim Game Pass subscribers play more diverse games and more games in general. We don't know well Valve's pursuit of Game Pass is going or if official talks have even taken place. Either way, a bright future between both sides could completely revamp the way we game on PC. Watch this space!
Stay up to date with all the latest esports and gaming news by checking out our social channels here: Twitter | Facebook | Discord
Images via Microsoft | Steam
