The Xbox (Beta) app has started to roll out mod support
A hint of things to come for Microsoft's games launcher.
As the popularity of the Xbox Game Pass on PC has grown, the shortcomings of the Xbox (Beta) launcher have become clear. While the app itself is generally quite functional, some key features of PC gaming are lacking: Like mods. Games that would be easily modded on platforms like Steam or GOG aren't immediately supported on Microsoft's app. It looks like that won't be true for long.
The latest update for the Xbox app adds a new feature. On a game's page you can select "Enable Mods," then accept a warning, which will open up a link to the game's file structure so you can insert your mods of choice. It's a bit barebones compared to Steam's elaborate Workshop, so you have to go find your own mods out on the web. It's good news for those playing games like Paradox Interactive's Cities: Skylines through Game Pass though, as it and its ilk are very much improved by mods.
Into the Breach and Phantasy Star Online 2 both support the feature so far. Microsoft pledged greater support for mods on the Xbox (Beta) app, and this is the first appearance of that promise on the app to date. Here's hoping that Microsoft gets this support out there for more games sooner rather than later.
Thanks for the tipoff, Windows Central.
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Jon Bolding is a games writer and critic with an extensive background in strategy games. When he's not on his PC, he can be found playing every tabletop game under the sun.