The Steam Deck is set to be directly linked to Valve’s gaming storefront. However, according to Phil Spencer, the device can also run Microsoft’s xCloud service, and it does it well [via Screenrant].
In a recent tweet, the Xbox boss described his hands-on experience with Valve’s upcoming device. Yet, while most hands-on previews have focused on the handheld’s preinstalled Steam operating system, Spencer instead apparently played some Xbox games. The result? Well, the boss seems pleased:
“Was @valvesoftware this week talking w/ Scott, Erik, Gabe about Steam Deck. After having mine most of the week I can say it’s a really nice device. Games with me on the go, screen size, controls all great. Playing Halo and Age feels good, xCloud works well. Congrats SD team.“
Now, I know what you’re thinking; why would Valve let players use an Xbox service on its device? Well, from the get-go, Valve has been very vocal about how open source the Steam Deck is. Therefore, it makes sense that the device would run services like xCloud without a hitch.
Yet, Spencer’s hands-on experience with the handheld could signify that the two companies have a good working relationship. In other words, if players are going to install xCloud and Xbox Game Pass on the device anyway, we could see some sort of partnership form in the future. While Spencer denied rumours of an Xbox Nintendo partnership last week, the vice-president also said it’s looking to “grow” on open platforms like “the web, PC and Mobile“.
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Featured Image Credit: Valve/Microsoft