“Xbox Mode is here”: Microsoft rolls out console-style experience on Windows 11, barely meeting its own deadline

Xbox Mode promo image showing multiple Windows 11 devices with a console-style UI and a controller, highlighting availability and Forza Horizon 6.

Huzzah, or at least that’s how I’m choosing to start this piece. Microsoft’s Xbox Mode is here, previously known as the Xbox full-screen experience, and is now officially rolling out in phases.

Xbox Mode is Microsoft’s attempt to bring a more “immersive” gaming experience to Windows PCs. It essentially launches the Xbox app in full screen with reduced background tasks, freeing up system memory for gaming.