The latest DirectX is once again an exclusive

dx11

If you are an avid PC gamer, you will recall when Crysis required DX10 to display all it’s glory. Back in the day Windows Vista was the only way that would allow you to run DX10 (officially speaking of course). Windows Vista was notorious for all it’s performance issues, so a lot of us gamers were reluctant to move. This cycle of exclusivity has been going on since the foundation of DirectX.

So, here we are again in 2012, only this time its DX11.1 and Windows 8!

A Microsoft official has commented on the matter in the original article and said:

 “DirectX 11.1 is part of Windows 8, just like DirectX 11 was part of Windows 7. DirectX 11 was made available for Vista …. but at this point there is no plan for DirectX 11.1 to be made available on Windows 7.”

Although I am an avid lover of Windows, and can’t possibly think of trading in W7 for Mac OS or any other OS, I have to call out Microsoft on this one and tell them that this exclusivity thing hurts gamers and gives me a vibe of blackmail. DirectX 10 was branded as a Vista exclusive, but modders were able to successfully port it to Windows XP proving that there are no technical limitations on the matter but rather it was a commercial decision. I was greatly disappointed in Microsoft for the decision they made. Once again I express my disapproval unless there are technical limitations which are explained to consumers.

There are always more friendly means to promote your new product, other than knocking out support on your older products. The current method Microsoft uses will only build an ongoing relation of distrust between the consumer and developer (‘”Microsoft ain’t got your back bro” or “they’re out to get your money!”, would be the consumer mentality). I wish Microsoft would realize that if they took care of their customers with these small things, their customers will eventually take care of them where it matters most (Buying legit copies).  The competition of operating systems is heating up and who knows if Apple or Google will hold the OS of choice for gaming in the coming years, a change of strategy is a must from Microsoft’s part if they wish to continue to lead.

Fear not avid 2D gamers, most of what DX11.1 offers is focused on 3D gaming. Although I would assume any new DX updates are to be cut off from now on, bummer.

Source:
VG247

 

Author: DoCWaSaBe View all posts by

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