A former Microsoft top manager has expressed the opinion that Valve devices could take the place of Xbox consoles in home environments. According to his assessment, the Steam Machine is capable of becoming an alternative to the PlayStation 5 and the upcoming PlayStation 6, despite the device’s price. It is noted that the lack of exclusive games for Xbox may reduce interest in Microsoft’s hardware.

Other former Microsoft executives also share a skeptical outlook on the prospects of the new Xbox console. On social media, some suggest that Sony views the current situation as a serious threat to Xbox. Now, Steam Machine from Valve is being considered the main competitor to PlayStation in the living room.

A recent PlayStation report forecasts a decrease in the number of single-player PC ports on the Steam platform. Among the factors influencing this decision are the uncertain future of Xbox and the emergence of Valve’s new system. According to former Microsoft employees, Sony now sees Valve as a significant competitor in the gaming hardware market.

The Steam Machine stands out thanks to its large Steam user base and advantages such as a flexible refund policy, family sharing, and free multiplayer. Third-party manufacturers are expected to offer a wide range of device configurations, with prices ranging from $500 to $5,000. However, rising costs for memory and storage could pose a challenge for budget models.

Before the release of Valve’s compact Linux devices, Sony did not consider the company a console manufacturer. Now, more users will be able to play PlayStation 5 games ported to PC on large 4K TVs. As a result, PlayStation may adjust its strategy to protect its own hardware sales.

The move away from Xbox exclusives is seen as a controversial step that could diminish the appeal of the new console. Support for cross-platform releases limits the incentive to purchase an Xbox, which may influence users to choose other systems.

Valve could gain an advantage as Microsoft struggles to maintain its hardware market share. However, some gamers doubt that Sony should view Valve as a serious threat, since many PC games with anti-cheat systems are not supported on SteamOS. For example, popular shooters like Valorant and Fortnite, available on PlayStation 5, are unlikely to work on the Steam Machine.