Arm Holdings, the company behind the Arm architecture used in many mobile devices, has made significant strides in improving game compatibility on Windows devices powered by Arm processors. This development has caught the attention of gamers and developers alike, signaling a potential shift in the landscape of gaming on non-traditional platforms.
In a recent interview with PC Gamer, Chris Bergey, a senior VP at Arm Holdings, mentioned that core compatibility issues for Arm-powered Windows devices have largely been resolved, with most users spending the majority of their time in apps that are available with a native Arm version. However, gaming has remained a visible weakness due to anti-cheat programs in popular online games, which can cause compatibility issues on Arm-based systems.
Despite ongoing challenges with anti-cheat programs, there are indications that major game developers, such as Epic Games, are looking to expand compatibility with Arm-based Windows laptops. As Arm-based devices become more prevalent in the market, developers are expected to put in the effort to support them, potentially leading to a more diverse gaming ecosystem across consoles, PCs, and mobile platforms.
The push for improved game compatibility on Arm-based Windows devices also raises the possibility of future innovations, such as Arm-based Windows handheld devices that could offer a unique gaming experience with long battery life and efficient performance. This could open up new opportunities for gaming on the go, especially with the potential for running Windows and Steam on compact, Arm-based devices.
Overall, the progress made by Arm Holdings in addressing game compatibility issues on Windows devices is a promising development for the gaming community. As technology continues to evolve, the prospect of a more diverse and inclusive gaming environment across different platforms is becoming increasingly tangible.
References:
– PCWorld: https://www.pcworld.com/article/2809188/arm-says-windows-game-compatibility-is-up-to-developers.html
– The Register: https://www.theregister.com/2025/06/11/microsoft_slows_windows_11_24h2/
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