【News Express Vol.19】Windows 11 Update: FSE Upgrade + New Game Pass Lineup

Experience good games, come to Miracle Games Store.

As the December release window unfolds, the Microsoft ecosystem is clearly accelerating its pace: system-level features continue to evolve, game lineups expand steadily, and the Microsoft Store has introduced several noteworthy updates. From the broader rollout of Windows 11’s Full Screen Experience, to the early‐month Game Pass additions spanning multiple genres, and the inclusion of Misty Continent in the official promotional section, this week’s updates deliver a considerable amount of information.

To help you quickly grasp the highlights, let’s walk through the key developments across the Microsoft ecosystem.

1. Windows 11 Full-Screen Experience Expands: More Refined Controller Navigation and Further Advances for Handheld Mode

This week, the Microsoft ecosystem continued rolling out the Full Screen Experience (FSE) to more Windows 11 devices. Designed to free the Microsoft Store from the limitations of a desktop window, FSE allows it to operate in a console-like interface, delivering a more unified experience for handheld and controller users.

Controller-First Interaction Design

For a long time, the interaction logic of Windows PCs has differed greatly from handheld and console systems. With the introduction of FSE, controller navigation becomes more consistent—enabling users to browse the store, purchase content, and launch games without needing a touchscreen or mouse. This enhancement is especially beneficial for handheld devices such as ROG Ally and Legion Go.

Improved Task Switching and Overlay Mechanics

Players can now bring up the store interface or social panels while in-game, without returning to the desktop. This strengthens immersion while reducing operational complexity.

Cross-Device Testing Continues

The Dev and Beta channels (such as Build 26100.7271) are also testing FSE on traditional laptops and desktops. This indicates Microsoft’s intention to develop FSE into a new “standard view mode” on Windows—directly competing with Steam’s Big Picture Mode in living room scenarios.

2. Early December Game Pass Lineup: Wide Genre Coverage for Different Player Types

In early December, the Microsoft ecosystem announced a new batch of Game Pass additions. This update highlights Microsoft’s strategy of offering a well-balanced multi-genre catalog.

Family-Friendly Major IP: Marvel Cosmic Invasion

A key highlight of this update, leveraging the strong influence of the Marvel universe while offering gameplay that fits holiday gatherings with family and friends.

Narrative-Driven: Lost Records: Bloom & Rage

Developed by the team behind Life Is Strange, this title focuses on immersive storytelling—perfect for players who enjoy narrative-rich experiences.

Strategy & Long-Form Play: Monster Train 2, Stellaris, Medieval Dynasty

These titles maintain strong followings among core gamers and help expand Game Pass’s long-session content offerings.

Relaxing & Experiential: Spray Paint Simulator

Following trends from titles like PowerWash Simulator, this game caters to light, stress-relief playstyles.

In addition, anticipation around Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, scheduled for a December 4 release, reached peak intensity this week through pre-loads and promotional activity—continuing to draw traffic across the ecosystem.

3. Misty Continent Featured in the “Save up to 85% on games” Promotion Zone of the Microsoft Store

This week, the extended Black Friday promotion on the Microsoft Store highlighted Misty Continent within the main visual grid of the “Save up to 85% on games” section—placing it alongside several top-tier titles and earning a prominent spotlight.

What This Inclusion Represents

Higher visibility: Being placed in a prime promotional slot reflects strong, official-level support within the Microsoft ecosystem.

Exposure during a high-traffic season: Ideal for drawing the attention of new potential players.

Shown alongside leading titles: Helps further elevate the product’s overall recognition and visibility.

For players following Misty Continent, this marks an important moment in observing its performance within the Microsoft ecosystem. For the title itself, it’s a valuable opportunity to increase global exposure.

As the holiday season progresses, the Microsoft ecosystem continues advancing in system experience, content delivery, and overall store operations. From the broader rollout of the Full Screen Experience, to the expanding Game Pass lineup, to updates within the Microsoft Store’s featured sections—this week’s developments reflect a steady and deliberate evolution.

We will continue monitoring upcoming updates, including system feature rollouts, changes in store layout, and new game releases, bringing you clear and timely summaries as they unfold.

What recent change in the Windows / Microsoft Store ecosystem has caught your attention the most?

Is it the system experience upgrades, adjustments to store resource placements, or the launch of a particular game?

Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!