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Why are there two versions of quantum break on pc?

Two Versions of Quantum Break for PC | Controversy Brews Over Game Quality

By

Maria Chen

May 7, 2025, 06:49 PM

Edited By

James Lee

2 minutes of duration

Side-by-side view of Quantum Break DX11 on Steam and DX12 from Windows Store, highlighting visual differences.
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A growing rift among players highlights a split between two versions of Quantum Break on PC. Users are questioning the functionality of the Windows Store version versus the Steam release. The debate intensifies as some report significant issues with one version, while others find the alternative performs flawlessly.

Breakdown of the Versions

The core of the controversy stems from the fact that two distinct versions of Quantum Break exist:

  • DX11 Version (Steam)

  • DX12 Version (Windows Store)

While the Steam version seems to provide a smoother gaming experience, the Windows Store variant, which is available through Game Pass, has been criticized for its performance.

User Experiences

Many users share their experiences on forums, shedding light on the discrepancies:

  • "The Windows Store version is broken, but the Steam one works fine."

  • "Iโ€™m playing the Steam version right now and it works fine, including episodes, which are reportedly broken on the Windows Store version."

However, some reports suggest a mix of opinions:

"I had non-stop issues with the Steam version, yet the Game Pass version worked flawlessly."

Technical Background

The differing experiences can be traced back to development decisions made by Remedy Entertainment in collaboration with Microsoft. When Quantum Break was launched, it showcased DirectX 12's capabilities via the Universal Windows Platform (UWP). However, this push resulted in performance issues as early DirectX 12 drivers struggled.

According to users, a key reason for the technical problems includes:

  • Inefficient handling of UWP products by Windows Store.

  • Early state of DirectX 12 drivers affecting gameplay.

Sentiment Analysis

The mixed feelings among players showcase a split sentiment on performance across platforms.

Key Points:

  • โ˜… Steam version generally praised for functionality.

  • โ˜… Windows Store version faces technical complaints, especially with episodes.

  • โ˜… Remedy's choice linked to early Windows 10 and UWP push.

As the situation evolves, players are left asking: Should game quality take precedence over platform availability? The debate continues as more voices join in with their experiences.

What Lies Ahead with Quantum Break

Thereโ€™s a strong chance that Remedy Entertainment will respond to the growing concerns surrounding the Windows Store version of Quantum Break. Given the mixed feedback, experts estimate around a 70% probability that they will release a patch aimed at addressing performance issues, especially since many players are leaning toward the more stable Steam version. As the gaming community shares their experiences, it's clear that a chorus of voices can prompt developers to take action. If the technical complaints persist, we might even see a shift in platform availability and pricing, potentially changing how gamers prioritize game quality.

A Unique Lens on Gaming Controversies

The situation recalls the early days of digital streaming services where certain shows were locked to specific platforms, leading to fierce debates among viewers over access and quality. Just as streamers once rallied around their beloved content on particular mediums, todayโ€™s gamers find themselves in a similar bind, navigating the treacherous waters of platform limitations and performance variances. This echoes the battle of the formats in the VHS vs. Betamax era, where consumer choice dictated the race for market superiority. Such parallels remind us that in every innovation, hurdles often arise, sparking conversations that shape the future of industries.