Microsoft Unveils New Game Development Tools to Unify Development Between PC and Xbox

Microsoft is working to make game development simpler across Windows and Xbox, and recently shared a video highlighting new tools coming in a big update planned for October 2025 (reported by Windows Central). The video reveals several new features for developers, including a new way to handle game inputs (GameInput API), a system for saving game progress (PlayFab Game Saves), and a tool for managing Xbox game packages (Xbox Game Package Manager).

The GameInput API is a streamlined system that lets developers easily support both controllers and keyboard/mouse input in their games. It even works with custom controllers, all through a single, fast connection. This simplifies development, saving developers time and effort when making sure their games work with different input methods – especially important for Xbox Play Anywhere titles.

As a gamer, I’m really excited about PlayFab Game Saves! It’s basically a way to make sure my progress in a game is consistent no matter where I play. I can start a game on my Xbox and then pick up right where I left off on my PC, which is awesome. Plus, it works with other cloud saves I might already be using, like Steam. The best part is, it even handles those tricky situations when save files get messed up, and it lets me play offline too. It just makes everything so much smoother!

As a fan, I’m really excited about all the work Microsoft is doing under the hood! It sounds like they’ve made a ton of improvements for developers. For example, the new Xbox Game Package Manager will make getting games and updates onto both PC and Xbox way easier. Plus, developers can now build for both ARM64 and x64 at the same time, which is awesome. And this Cross-Platform Game Runtime thing? It means PC games can connect to Xbox services, like login stuff, much more smoothly. It all adds up to a better experience for everyone!

Microsoft’s latest updates heavily focus on bringing Windows and Xbox closer together as unified gaming platforms. These improvements will complement existing programs like Xbox Play Anywhere, letting players buy a game once and play it on both their PC and Xbox. Notably, the inclusion of support for games from Steam suggests that reports about the next Xbox potentially allowing games from other stores are likely accurate.

A recent report suggests the next Xbox will run a complete version of Windows, unlike the simplified operating system used in the current Xbox Series X and S. To make it easy to navigate with a controller, it’s expected to have a user interface designed for TVs and consoles.

If Microsoft’s next console allows game stores other than their own, it’s also predicted to be pricier than previous models. Current estimates suggest the cost of the components alone is around $999.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xD7xrh8DHjQ

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2025-11-10 18:42