Something unexpected is unfolding in the world of gaming with Microsoft’s Xbox PC app on Windows. Recently, players have noticed that Xbox console games are mysteriously appearing in the app’s library, raising eyebrows and sparking excitement.

While gamers can’t install classics like the original Alan Wake from the Xbox 360 era directly through this app, the fact that they’re showing up in the “My PC Games” section suggests something much bigger is brewing beneath the surface.

Many speculate this isn’t just a random glitch but rather a strategic move by Microsoft to blend the Xbox and Windows stores more seamlessly. Back in March, we hinted at this transition when announcing Microsoft’s collaboration on an intriguing handheld project with Asus, dubbed Project Kennan. This venture is part of a broader strategy to create a universal library for Xbox and PC games.

Moreover, insiders have revealed plans for the Xbox PC app to eventually display titles from competing platforms, including Steam and the Epic Games Store. Earlier this year, Microsoft inadvertently unveiled mockup images indicating that Steam games could soon grace the Xbox PC library. Sources have confirmed that an update is in the works that will present every game installed on a player’s PC, further bridging the gap between formats.

In tandem with these changes, Microsoft has been repositioning the Xbox app as the go-to hub for PC gaming, even rebranding it simply as “Xbox PC.” This new identity made its debut alongside announcements for titles like Gears of War: Reloaded, and the recently released MIO: Memories In Orbit includes the sparkling new Xbox PC logo, signaling a shift aimed at catching the eyes of PC players.

The tech giant is not only combining features of Xbox and Windows but also gearing up for the handheld gaming market. With competitors like Lenovo adopting SteamOS for their handheld devices, the pressure is on Microsoft to innovate and captivate gamers who crave portable gaming experiences.

As these changes unfold, the gaming community is buzzing with anticipation about how Microsoft will integrate additional games into the Xbox PC app. The burning question remains: will players be able to actually play Xbox console games on their PCs? Microsoft may need to harness its cloud gaming technology to make this dream a reality unless they have a breakthrough in emulation on the horizon.