A senior official at Epic Games has disclosed that the upcoming Xbox console will support the Epic Games Store right from its launch. While many aspects are still being finalized, the current strategy involves Epic playing an integral role in Microsoft’s initiative to make the next-generation Xbox more open and inclusive for publishers.

Numerous reports surfaced throughout 2025 suggesting that the upcoming Xbox will function as a hybrid between a console and a PC. This would enable developers to utilize it like a standard PC environment through a unified software development kit, possibly a refresh of the Microsoft Game Development Kit (GDK). Additionally, it may feature various game storefronts similar to the newly released ROG Xbox Ally series, which comes preinstalled with both the Xbox Store and Steam.

Epic Games Store’s Integration with Xbox

In a recent interview with Game File, Steve Allison confirmed that the company plans to embrace Microsoft’s open strategy for the next console generation. “We definitely plan to be on the new hardware for Xbox, because, unless their policy or stance on it changes, they are telling us they’re going to welcome that,” he stated. Translation: “We are determined to be present from day one.”

Development of the Epic Games Store for Xbox

Despite the optimistic plans, Allison emphasized that they have not commenced development on the Xbox version of the Epic Games Store. He indicated that Microsoft will likely impose certain requirements, suggesting that no substantive development has begun as of early 2026.

Exploring Potential Opportunities with Other Consoles

Allison also mentioned that Epic is keen on extending its storefront to PlayStation and Nintendo systems, with ongoing discussions about this possibility. However, both companies show little enthusiasm for the notion at present, often delivering responses that range from non-committal to stating it isn’t on their immediate agenda.

If Microsoft’s next-gen Xbox genuinely adopts third-party storefronts, it could start shaping significant policies regarding security, refunds, certification, and platform fees. This shift aligns with Epic’s ongoing effort to broaden its marketplace reach, which recently initiated a mobile version of the Epic Games Store in select markets.