Microsoft has been trying very hard to distribute its games with as much autonomy as possible. The rise of the Universal Windows Platform combined with Microsoft’s insistence on selling its first-party games in the Windows Store has more than a few industry leaders concerned, but there’s no need to worry; there’s no competing with Steam. Just look at Rise of the Tomb Raider , which was offered through both store-fronts. 98% of Rise of the Tomb Raider sales were made through Steam. Xbox boss Phil Spencer isn’t oblivious to the fact, and he’s not trying to ignore Steam either.
“I look at Steam today, it’s on an incredible growth trajectory,” he said in an interview with Giant Bomb (via GameSpot ). “They are a critical part of gaming’s success on Windows. I don’t think Valve’s hurt by not having our first-party games in their store right now. They’re doing incredibly well. We will ship games on Steam again.” Spencer didn’t mention exactly which games or when (is Phil Spencer ever specific?), but at least we know he’s open to the prospect. It should be noted, though, that he also emphasized his determination to grow the Windows store, so there’s that.