A new rumour suggests Microsoft could be laying the groundwork for changes to how Xbox games are distributed on PC, potentially giving the company the option to move away from Steam in the future.
The claim comes from Windows Central’s Jez Corden during the Xbox Two Podcast, where he said Microsoft has plans related to its PC strategy but stopped short of saying they would definitely involve leaving Valve’s storefront.
“I’ve got some interesting information about this… I do know like Microsoft has some plans with regards to how they show up on PC, shall I say? And I don’t know what that pertains to with regards to Steam, but the plans that I know about and I’m being very careful here kind of suggest it gives them a window to potentially pull out of Steam. So, I would not be shocked if eventually we do see a universe where Microsoft quit Steam.”
After the podcast, Corden clarified his comments on X, saying he does not believe Microsoft is likely to abandon Steam despite the possibility.
“I REALLY doubt they will, but they’re doing something that could potentially give them a window to do so, but there’s just too much money to be left on the table imo. It was part of a bigger discussion.”
Microsoft has not announced any plans to change its PC distribution strategy, and the company continues to release first-party Xbox titles on Steam. As a result, Corden’s comments remain speculation and should be treated as a rumour until Microsoft provides any official details.
