Key Takeaways
1. Epic Games Store is growing steadily but still trails behind Steam in sales and player base.
2. There are rumors of a PC/console hybrid for the next Xbox that may support both the Epic Games Store and Steam.
3. Epic Games is in discussions with Microsoft about creating an app for the next-gen Xbox hardware.
4. The current Epic Games Store app is designed for desktops and laptops, requiring enhancements for console use.
5. Future updates to the Epic Games Store may include a new launcher and social features, with testing expected by mid-2024.
While the Epic Games Store still trails behind Steam, it is steadily increasing its sales and drawing in new players. A key strategy for the marketplace to grow further involves enhancing the app for additional devices. In an interview with Windows Central, VP and GM Steve Allison talked about possible plans concerning the upcoming Xbox console.
Potential for PC/Console Hybrid
Microsoft has yet to confirm if its next console will include support for the Epic Games Store or Steam. However, there are rumors suggesting a PC/console hybrid that would depend on Windows. This would allow gamers to access various marketplaces, similar to the ROG Xbox Ally handhelds. In June 2025, Xbox President Sarah Bond mentioned that games wouldn’t be “tied to a single store.”
Discussions with Microsoft
In the interview, Allison shared that the company has been in talks with Microsoft:
“If they do indeed go ahead with letting Steam and the Epic Games Store on the next-gen Xbox hardware, we will definitely be there. I’m quite sure that will mean we need to create an app that works there.”
At present, the marketplace is mainly tailored for desktops and laptops. Gamers who prefer to play from the couch often use Steam’s Big Picture Mode. On the other hand, the Xbox Full Screen Experience aims to make navigating menus with controllers easier. For Epic to be a viable choice on the new Xbox console, it would have to offer a similar function.
Future Developments
Sadly, the updated interface is still just a concept for now. Nevertheless, it’s probable that fans will see this feature rolled out in the future. Referring to the ROG Ally, Allison mentioned, “We definitely need to develop for it, but it probably won’t happen this year. Maybe next year.”
The Epic Games Store is set to undergo more than mere adjustments before the arrival of the new Microsoft and AMD hardware. By May or June, gamers could get a chance to test a new launcher with restructured code. Developers are working on reducing the background resources the software uses. New social features might also emerge, aiming to compete with the more community-focused Steam.
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