Gaming on Windows Just Changed Forever — Summary & Key Points
TL;DR
Microsoft introduced Xbox mode to strip Windows bloat and offer a console-like experience, but Linus Tech Tips' testing reveals it is currently half-baked with bugs and zero performance gains compared to standard Windows or Steam Big Picture mode. While the feature represents a positive long-term trend toward platform unification and the UniFi GDK, users should stick with Big Picture for now unless they specifically want the automatic game detection and don't mind the lack of multi-monitor support.
Key Quotes
"The world does not need more iPhone like experiences."
The argument
The Thesis
Microsoft launched Xbox mode to combat Windows bloat and offer a console-like experience, replacing the traditional desktop with a lean interface that can be toggled on or off. The feature aims to leverage the UniFi GDK to bring console-level optimization to PC gaming.
The Usability Reality
Hands-on testing reveals the interface is currently clunky, requiring keyboard input for PIN entry and struggling with basic navigation like volume control or launching hardware info tools. The Home and Back button functionality is broken, forcing users to rely on keyboard shortcuts or mouse emulation for many tasks.
The Performance Reality
Performance benchmarks on a 9600X paired with a 5600XT show zero gains in titles like Forza Horizon 5, F1 24, and Cyberpunk 2077, with some games like F1 24 failing to launch in full screen. The Labs team found that Xbox mode actually uses more RAM than Steam Big Picture while gaming because the Xbox app and Steam launch in the background.
The Strategic Context
Unlike Steam Big Picture which is just an app on top of Windows, Xbox mode replaces the system interface entirely to remove background processes. This shift is part of a larger push for platform unification, treating PC customers as first-class citizens rather than forcing them to wait for manual ports.
The Verdict
While Xbox mode is currently half-baked and lacks multi-monitor support, it offers automatic detection of both Steam and non-Steam games. The hosts recommend sticking with Steam Big Picture for the time being due to its cleaner UI and better performance, but acknowledge that the feature is a necessary step in the right direction.
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