Like I said before, my interest in console gaming has been on the decline. Microsoft has been winning my support essentially by default. Sony's war on innovation has resulted in my vow not to return to the PlayStation brand until they start contributing to the industry. Nintendo contributes, but they are far too reliant on their overrated first-party titles.
Even Microsoft is at risk of losing me (sort of) thanks to the significant improvements in recent years to computer gaming. Since Microsoft is already trying to release their games on both platforms, I would like to see these platforms move closer together.
Steam has developed a version of Linux built primarily around games. Imagine if Microsoft did the same for games. They could create minimum requirements for an Xbox certified computer. This would allow gamers confidence that their system can handle software. Developers would have benchmarks they could target to ensure a significant install base. When not playing games, Windows could function normally.
An actual game console could be a device specifically designed for a gaming version of Windows. By pushing gamers to the Microsoft store, they could still receive the fees that make up the bulk of profits for console developers. Whether or not a standard version of Windows would be a good included is a matter of debate. With a full Windows implementation, they could produce a stronger selling point. Without it, they could require purchases through their store. This would allow stronger security and lower hardware prices.
Ultimately, I want Microsoft to expand the Xbox brand to be a platform usable by consoles and computers. Gamers can go after their preferences. Any Xbox game available on one will automatically be available on the other. Not only that, but Microsoft would be absolutely slaughtering Sony in regards to game selection.
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