Microsoft has launched a unified library for PC games, aiming to create a single hub for all available launchers: from Xbox Game Pass to Battle.net and all other stores, including Steam, Ubisoft Connect, EA App, GOG, Rockstar, and more.
Xbox Insiders enrolled in the PC Gaming Preview program will be able to try the unified library starting this week, while the official launch is expected during the holiday season on the ROG Ally and ROG Ally X. It’s likely that the interface will be extended to other portable devices as well.
The feature allows you to launch any title from a single library, eliminating the need to switch between launchers. Once a game is installed from a compatible store, it will automatically appear in the “My Library” section of the Xbox app for PC.
That’s not all: the titles will also appear in the “Recent” list, making it even easier to pick up where you left off without having to search through multiple applications.
Will Microsoft Succeed in Unifying PC Gaming?
We know that Microsoft is optimizing Windows 11 for handheld devices, and the announcement of the unified library certainly points in that direction: an interface that automatically includes all games stored on disk, regardless of the launcher.
Users will also have the option to hide games from specific stores, by accessing the app settings (via the profile icon) and navigating to Library and Extensions. From there, they can select “Hide” for each store and filter the experience according to their preferences.
The unified library is just the beginning: Microsoft has already announced that it will soon extend support to other digital stores, making the Xbox app for PC even more comprehensive and central for all Windows gamers.
