Windows 11 24H2 Update: Gamers Frustrated, SteamOS Gains Attention

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Microsoft, Microsoft, Microsoft... once again, the latest Windows 11 update, specifically the 24H2 build, has managed to rile up PC gamers to the point where some are considering migrating to alternative platforms like SteamOS. Whether you’re glued to your desktop slaying Templars in Assassin’s Creed or prepping for a grind session in Path of Exile 2, the recent issues with Windows 11 spell frustration, crashes, and chaos. But is Microsoft solely to blame? And is SteamOS the savior gamers need? Buckle up; we’re diving into everything you need to know about this escalating drama and what it means for you.

What Happened with Windows 11 24H2?​

The Windows 11 24H2 update rolled out with high expectations but quickly turned into a saga of compatibility nightmares, with gamers being the primary casualties. Ubisoft’s beloved Assassin’s Creed series has been squarely in the crosshairs:
  • Origins and Valhalla have received patches to fix crashing issues plaguing Windows 11 users.
  • However, Assassin’s Creed Odyssey continues to experience unpatched crashes, leaving fans fuming.
Ubisoft, no stranger to PR hits (thanks to past controversies), had the unenviable task of issuing hotfixes for their games. Frustrated users quickly took to Steam to post negative reviews for these titles, mistakenly blaming the developer for the chaos. However, in this case, Ubisoft’s hands are mostly clean—Microsoft’s update that introduced system-wide bugs has been the real culprit.

How Game-Killing are These Bugs?​

Let’s break down the impact beyond the Assassin’s Creed franchise:
  • System Instability: Users have reported random bugs across their systems, including audio drivers suddenly muting themselves and desktops freezing mid-task.
  • Gaming Woes: Other titles aren’t immune, with examples like Path of Exile 2 also falling victim to incompatibility crashes. Some games utilizing anti-cheat systems, like Call of Duty, are failing to play well with certain builds of Windows 11.
  • Lower Adoption Rates for Windows 11: Continuing issues like these tarnish Microsoft's attempts to push gamers into adopting their latest OS. It almost feels like Windows 7 déjà vu.

Why is Microsoft to Blame?​

The nature of PC gaming thrives on stability. Operating systems like Windows are required to handle an unfathomable combination of configurations—GPUs, CPUs, drivers, you name it. Yet, at its core, Microsoft is in charge of delivering these updates efficiently. When bugs emerge, a battle of claims often follows: is it the game developers' responsibility to optimize their products for Windows, or is it Microsoft's job to ensure such environments do not break compatibility in the first place?
Windows 11 24H2 has shown us that poorly implemented updates can cripple developers who rely on stability. Yes, Ubisoft could have patched their games faster, but the domino effect started with Microsoft.

Enter SteamOS: Is the Grass Greener on the Linux Side?​

For gamers fed up with Microsoft (and tech enthusiasts who’ve never forgotten about Linux being “the future”), SteamOS is back in the spotlight. Developed by Valve and primarily designed for the Steam Deck, it is a Linux-based operating system optimized for gaming and packed with seamless compatibility for Steam games. But could it replace Windows for desktop PC gamers?

Why People Are Talking about SteamOS and Alternatives​

  1. Stability: With a minimalist design and gaming focus, SteamOS is viewed as more “stable” compared to systems bloated with non-gaming features (looking at you, Windows).
  2. Bazzite and Dual Booting: Gamers also have the option of installing tools like Bazzite, which expands the usability of gaming-focused operating systems. Dual booting, which allows users to switch back and forth between Linux and Windows, has become increasingly attractive.
  3. Avoiding Anti-Cheat Hiccups: One limitation of SteamOS, however, lies with certain games (Call of Duty) that rely heavily on anti-cheat software unequipped for Linux systems. Microsoft still dominates here.
If Microsoft can’t iron its issues soon, Linux platforms could become the darling of gamers, especially as SteamOS expands support for devices beyond the Steam Deck. For now, it’s more of a companion platform rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.

Broader Implications for the Industry​

This debacle underscores a larger industry concern: software updates increasingly seem rushed, buggy, or out of touch with the end user’s daily experience.
  • People Voting with Their Systems: Windows still holds a lion's share of the PC gaming market, but frustrations like these move users. Just as gamers turned their backs on Epic Games' store over forced exclusivity, they could send Microsoft a clear message if viable alternatives like Linux gaming or macOS gain traction.
  • Valve’s Opportunity: Valve is steadily positioning itself as a disruptor in the PC industry. With Steam Deck’s success showing there is a market for Linux-powered gaming, it’s only a matter of time before even more gamers start asking, “What if I don’t need Windows at all?”

Should You Make the Switch?​

So, should you abandon Microsoft altogether? Not so fast. Here’s some pragmatic advice:

If You’re a Die-Hard Gamer:​

  • Stick with Windows for Now: Alas, most AAA games are still optimized for Windows, and certain multiplayer games rely on Windows-based anti-cheat software.
  • Patch It Up: Keep the OS updated and monitor bug reports. Ubisoft and other developers are releasing game-specific hotfixes.
  • Test SteamOS in Dual Boot Mode: If you’re curious, dual-booting Linux/SteamOS alongside Windows allows you to experiment without giving up Windows entirely.

If You’re a Power User Open to Experimentation:​

  • Linux Gaming is Doable: Steam’s Proton compatibility layer is impressive, supporting an ever-growing list of Windows games. Make sure you’re okay missing out on the odd title or two.
  • Keep an Eye on SteamOS Updates: Valve is improving compatibility and accessibility for more setups every day.

TL;DR: Microsoft, Don’t Let Gamers Slip Away​

The Windows 11 24H2 update has left many gamers feeling alienated after ongoing compatibility issues broke major AAA games like Assassin’s Creed Odyssey. While Ubisoft scrambled to issue patches for other titles, frustration mounts as alternatives like SteamOS emerge as viable paths for PC gaming. Gamers are no strangers to loyalty—lose their trust, and Microsoft risks ceding a significant portion of its market share to the growing Linux ecosystem. And let’s be honest—nobody wants to troubleshoot yet another bug mid-game.

Source: TechRadar If Microsoft's Windows 11 24H2 issues continue like this, I'll fully convert to SteamOS for gaming as Ubisoft is forced to fix Assassin’s Creed games
 


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