Microsoft has enabled DirectStorage

Microsoft revealed just over a year and a half ago that the most significant advancement in the upcoming Xbox Series X system will be available on the PC. It is about the ability to "stream" massive volumes of data directly from incredibly fast NVMe SSDs to the GPU of the same computer.

As a result of this advancement, it is no longer necessary to rely on the CPU to decompress all of that data. This is known as the "DirectStorage API," and it enables more detailed graphics in games as well as much faster game launch times.

Aside from technical specifics, the DirectStorage API is now available on Windows operating systems as of March 14.

Why is the plural used? Because Microsoft has enabled this new feature not only in Windows 11 but also in Windows 10!

"However, our recommendation is to utilize it on Windows 11," Microsoft says, attempting to remove itself from any potential faults or unfulfilled expectations.

As a result, anyone who uses it with Windows 10 should be aware that they will almost probably not receive 100% of what is available. However, it is extremely likely that some substantial variations may go unnoticed.

And now we get to the crux of the matter, which will dampen the enthusiasm generated by the arrival of a fast NVMe 4.0 stick drive and a suitable motherboard. There are no games yet, and they will not be released.

For example, the much-anticipated Forspoken has been postponed and will not be available until October 11, with its key feature being that it will make use of the DirectStorage API.

The bad news is that developers understand that the vast majority of gamers will not have access to fast NVMe SSDs anytime soon, so they will not hurry to meet the full potential of new and advanced features.

So, in the end, Xbox is still a far better solution for individuals who have a great passion for games but lack the patience to wait for upgrades for the next half-year, year, or more…