Microsoft’s recent push for its “Xbox Everywhere” strategy aims to position the Xbox app as a fixture across various devices, including smartphones and smart TVs, contingent on a strong Wi-Fi connection for game streaming. In contrast, Valve has emerged with a promising alternative that could allow gamers to use their libraries seamlessly across any device without the constraints of internet speed. Both tech giants share a common objective: to capture the attention and spending power of gamers, with Microsoft’s Game Pass and Valve’s Steam serving as their respective platforms.
Despite the vast disparity in workforce—Valve reportedly employs around 350 individuals, while Microsoft boasts over 228,000—each company is eager to draw players into their ecosystems. Recent developments saw Xbox increase the price of its Game Pass Ultimate subscription from $20 to $30 while expanding its catalog of streamable games for lower-tier subscribers. This move is particularly appealing to gamers using lower-end hardware who may struggle with exorbitant PC prices. Conversely, Valve’s ambition lies in enabling users to run games natively on their chosen systems, including smartphones, through a new emulator called Fex.
Fex is an open-source emulator designed to run various chip architectures in a digital environment, an initiative that has reportedly been underway for over seven years with contributions from numerous indie developers. Valve’s software engineer Pierre-Loup Griffais noted that the development of Fex was a collaborative effort, highlighting Valve’s significant involvement. The ultimate goal is to eliminate hardware exclusivity in gaming, a vision that aligns with Microsoft’s recent strategic focus.
In a recent showcase, Valve introduced the Steam Machine—a console-like device with PC components—and the Steam Frame VR headset. The latter features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 CPU, an ARM-based chip that necessitates compatibility adjustments for games. Valve asserts that the Steam Frame can stream games locally and through Fex, effectively creating a VR platform akin to a “Steam Deck for your face.” This means consumers can enjoy the benefits of SteamOS while accessing their games in a more immersive format.
ARM architecture, known for its power efficiency, contrasts with the x86 architecture prevalent in most PCs. Fex serves as a bridge between these two environments, supporting Linux OS and the Vulkan system library, similar to Valve’s Proton compatibility layer. Proton has already proven its utility in simplifying game access for Linux users, and Fex aims to extend that convenience to a broader range of devices and platforms.
As interest in ARM-based devices grows, propelled by Qualcomm’s push for Snapdragon X PCs and affordable gaming handhelds, the landscape of gaming compatibility may shift significantly. Although Qualcomm has yet to adopt Fex for its upcoming Snapdragon X2 chips, the potential for open-source emulation to thrive across various platforms presents an intriguing future. The expectation is that Fex’s open-source nature will allow it to proliferate beyond Valve’s ecosystem, making it easier for gamers to access their libraries regardless of hardware limitations.
Valve’s previous innovations, such as Proton, have laid the groundwork for broader compatibility in gaming. Proton, which first emerged seven years ago, provides a compatibility layer that allows Windows games to run on Linux operating systems effectively. The Steam Deck’s implementation of Proton has garnered positive feedback for delivering superior performance compared to running games on Windows with equivalent hardware. As of now, over 24,300 games are reportedly playable via Proton, showcasing its success in the realm of game compatibility.
While Fex is still in its developmental stages, the initiative signals Valve’s commitment to expanding the gaming experience. As gaming costs continue to rise, with consoles and PCs becoming increasingly expensive, gamers may find themselves seeking alternatives. The impending shift towards Fex and the continued support for ARM architecture could facilitate a more accessible gaming landscape, enabling more gamers to engage with their favorite titles regardless of their hardware capabilities.
