 |
| Xbox and Steam logos are shown |
New Microsoft Gaming CEO Asha Sharma refuses to confirm third-party marketplace support, leaving gamers and partners in the dark
As a console-PC hybrid, Project Helix could offer owners a massive library of titles. However, while some gamers assumed third-party marketplaces would be welcome, that may not be the case. In an interview with Game File, Microsoft Gaming CEO Asha Sharma refused to confirm Steam's presence on the new Xbox console.
The uncertainty has sent ripples through the gaming community, with many wondering if Microsoft is pivoting away from the open-platform approach that made the ROG Xbox Ally so appealing to PC gaming enthusiasts.
What we know — and don't know — about Helix's marketplace support
Game File's Stephen Totilo discussed a memo from Sharma and Chief Content Officer Matt Booty. The executives reaffirmed a commitment to an "open" ecosystem. Totilo wondered if that meant Project Helix would follow the ROG Xbox Ally. The Windows gaming handheld is compatible with all third-party storefronts.
Read the full interview here: Game File's exclusive with Asha Sharma
When asked for clarification, Sharma replied that the goal was to invite "more people to create on the platform and more players to participate in customizing and extending that."
That vague phrasing has done little to calm concerns. For a device positioned as a hybrid, the ability to access Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG isn't just a nice-to-have — it's the entire value proposition.
Microsoft's partners are also confused about Helix
Head of Epic Games Store Steve Allison earlier suggested that the marketplace would launch on the new Xbox console. Even so, the Microsoft Gaming CEO explained, "I wasn't part of those conversations, so we'll make those decisions going forward as a team and with our partners."
Follow Stephen Totilo for ongoing coverage: Stephen Totilo on X
This admission is striking. It suggests that Microsoft's hardware strategy may have shifted significantly following recent leadership changes. Allison's comments from February now appear premature at best — or outright incorrect at worst.
Sharma promised to comment on compatibility with Steam and its rivals in the future. In recent weeks, fans have seen revamped branding, cheaper Xbox Game Pass pricing, and more changes.
Microsoft's official announcement: We Are Xbox on Xbox Wire
Gamers on the ResetEra forums are wondering if Microsoft is also revising its plans for the hardware. The discussion thread has already generated hundreds of reactions, with opinions sharply divided.
Join the ResetEra discussion here: ResetEra thread on Helix marketplace support
Marketplace support might influence the Helix price
After reading the interview, Homura wrote, "Surely they aren't dumb enough to release a super expensive PC that doesn't allow Steam." On the other hand, some posters believe the restrictions could lead to a more reasonable Project Helix price.
This is the central tension: if Microsoft locks out Steam and Epic, they keep 100% of their platform's software revenue. If they allow those marketplaces, they lose a significant cut to competitors.
If purchases were made primarily through its own store, Microsoft wouldn't lose revenue to Valve and Epic Games. That may make the company more willing to subsidize the cost of the hardware, as seen with the Series X, PS5, and Switch 2. Nevertheless, facing the ongoing memory shortage, it wouldn't be any cheaper to manufacture.
Unlike a traditional Windows gaming PC, a more closed-off system could also support Xbox exclusive games. In the same interview, Sharma said she was reconsidering exclusivity. In any case, Helix may not be the versatile Xbox console buyers had been anticipating.
The bottom line
Microsoft finds itself at a crossroads. The previous regime under Phil Spencer appeared committed to an open, Ally-like approach. New leadership seems less certain.
For gamers, the stakes are simple: a locked-down Helix is an expensive Xbox. An open Helix is a compelling PC alternative. Which one actually ships — and at what price — will determine whether this ambitious hybrid soars or stumbles out of the gate.
Sources: Game File, Stephen Totilo X account, Xbox Wire, ResetEra forums
NEW: I spoke to Xbox CEO Asha Sharma and Xbox chief content officer Matt Booty about where they want to take Xbox
— Stephen Totilo (@stephentotilo) April 24, 2026
Lots here, going through the memo they published Thursday
Free piece, with a transcript available for paid Game File subscribers later todayhttps://t.co/nKlUPTa3wY