Microsoft is enhancing the gaming experience on PCs with the introduction of Xbox Mode in Windows 11, which aims to replicate the user experience found on its Xbox consoles.
This new feature provides a controller-optimized, full-screen experience for gaming on PCs, making it easier for users to jump into their games, according to Jason Ronald. Ian LeGrow further elaborated that this mode adds another way to enjoy games, specifically tailored for play.
The rollout of Xbox Mode coincides with the addition of five new day-one games to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass. Notable titles include:
- Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era, which is the eighth installment in its series.
- Aphelion, a sci-fi action-adventure game from Don’t Nod.
- Inkonbini: One Stores. Many Stories, currently holding an impressive score of 85 on Metacritic.
- TerraTech Legion, a roguelite action game available through Xbox Game Pass.
- Sledding Game, which boasts a remarkable 97% approval rating on Steam.
These developments represent a significant shift toward integrating console-like features into PC gaming. The evolution of Xbox Mode builds upon the Full Screen Experience that debuted on Xbox Ally gaming handhelds in 2025. This transition reflects Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to enhancing game development and user engagement across platforms.
As Microsoft continues to refine its offerings, it remains unclear how these changes will influence overall user adoption of Windows 11 for gaming purposes. However, with competitive pricing for Xbox Series X and S—ranging from $500 to $849—the company appears poised to attract both new and existing gamers seeking a comprehensive gaming solution.
