Microsoft Explains Why Project Helix Will Be Easier To Make Games For

The next generation of Xbox hardware is still wrapped in plenty of mystery, but we are finally getting a clearer picture of how it will work for the people actually making the games. According to a recent interview with Xbox Portfolio GM Chris Charla with IGN, the upcoming Project Helix console is being designed to be noticeably easier for developers to work with compared to the current Series X and S.

Helix can build one version of a game for multiple platforms

The main goal driving this change is a unified development process. The Xbox team wants studios to be able to create a single build of their game that works perfectly across the Project Helix console, personal computers, and cloud streaming devices like smart televisions.

Charla pointed out that developers who are already taking advantage of the Xbox PC platform and the Play Anywhere feature are essentially sitting in pole position for the next generation of hardware. By focusing on these existing tools today, creators can ensure their games run natively and smoothly on Project Helix on day one.

For teams starting their projects on storefronts like Steam, Charla suggests focusing on the Xbox PC version first, using that specific build as the foundation for the eventual console release. This straightforward approach should help studios save time and resources, ultimately leading to more games hitting the platform faster.

We can expect to hear more specific details on how developers will tap into Project Helix’s unique hardware features in the coming months.