Microsoft Gaming CEO Asha Sharma has declined to confirm whether Steam will be available on the rumored Project Helix console, potentially limiting the device's appeal as a PC-console hybrid, according to a report by Notebookcheck.
In an interview with Game File, Sharma addressed speculation regarding the new hardware's ecosystem. While some enthusiasts expected the device to support third-party marketplaces, Sharma did not provide a definitive answer regarding Steam's presence.
Journalist Stephen Totilo noted a recent memo from Sharma and Chief Content Officer Matt Booty that reaffirmed a commitment to an "open" ecosystem. Totilo questioned if this openness would mirror the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally, a Windows-based handheld that allows access to various third-party storefronts.
When pressed for clarification, Sharma stated her goal is to invite "more people to enough to create on the platform and more players to participate in customizing and extending that."
Confusion among industry partners
The lack of clarity has reached Microsoft's industry partners. Steve Allison, Vice President of the Epic Games Store, previously suggested the marketplace would launch on the new Xbox hardware.
Sharma distanced herself from those specific claims, telling Game File, "I wasn’t part of those conversations, so we’ll make those decisions going forward as a team and with our partners."
Industry analysts and users on the ResetEra forums are weighing the potential economic consequences of a closed storefront. A more restrictive ecosystem could allow Microsoft to retain revenue that would otherwise go to Valve or Epic Games.
Notebookcheck reports that if Microsoft captures all software sales, the company might be able to subsidize the hardware cost, similar to the pricing models used for the Xbox Series X and Nintendo Switch 2. However, an ongoing global memory shortage could prevent significant manufacturing cost reductions regardless of software revenue.
Some users, such as the commentator Homura, expressed skepticism about a high-priced hybrid device lacking Steam support. Conversely, others suggest that limiting third-party stores could help keep the Project Helix price point reasonable.
Beyond storefronts, Sharma indicated she is reconsidering the company's approach to game exclusivity. This shift follows recent Microsoft rebranding efforts and changes to Xbox Game Pass pricing structures.
