Microsoft has recently introduced a compact version of the Xbox Game Bar, a move that many have anticipated as the company takes its initial steps towards a dedicated Windows gaming handheld solution. This update, currently available to members of the Xbox Insider program, aims to enhance the usability of the PC overlay on portable devices. My exploration of this app extension since its announcement has revealed that while it serves its purpose, it does not quite deliver a comprehensive solution.
A Night at the Game Bar
For those unfamiliar, the Xbox Game Bar offers quick access to console-like features, including screenshots, social interactions, and audio controls. It also includes a selection of widgets that allow users to utilize apps like Spotify while gaming, eliminating the need to return to the desktop. The new compact mode optimizes the interface for smaller screens, making it more user-friendly for handheld devices. While the core functionalities remain intact, the adjustments seem to prioritize quick game launches. The “recent game” list now takes a prominent position, although it only retains a shortlist of games, necessitating reliance on platforms like Steam for broader access.
Additionally, the compact Game Bar allows users to launch main storefront applications and tools like Armoury Crate, which can save time compared to searching through desktop icons. However, I remain skeptical about whether this truly enhances efficiency, as it still leads users through multiple screens before reaching their desired game, making the Steam Big Picture mode an appealing alternative.
Handheld Overlay Hangover
Having experienced the convenience of the Steam Deck OLED and SteamOS, the compact Xbox Game Bar feels somewhat lacking in comparison. Even when viewed solely as an overlay, it misses several essential features that could streamline the handheld gaming experience. For instance, power management settings still require users to access either their handheld’s specific app or the Windows settings, which could have been more accessible within the Game Bar itself.
Moreover, the performance tab within the Game Bar lacks the ability to pin it on-screen in compact mode, which would allow players to monitor metrics like FPS without interrupting gameplay. In contrast, devices like the Steam Deck and other Windows handhelds can display such statistics conveniently in a sidebar overlay.
Throughout my testing of the compact Game Bar, I found myself questioning its practicality compared to existing management applications or Steam Big Picture Mode. Ultimately, the answer leans towards a no; the functionality offered is rather basic. While Microsoft did not market this update as a means to transform handhelds into portable Xbox consoles or to eliminate the need for Windows interaction, it nonetheless represents a significant update targeting the Windows handheld experience. However, it seems to be more of a scaled-down version of the existing Game Bar rather than a groundbreaking innovation. As players invest in portable gaming on this platform, one can only hope that this is not merely a temporary fix but a precursor to more substantial advancements in the future.
