On Friday, Microsoft introduced Edge Game Assist, a specialized in-game browser tailored for PC gamers. This bespoke version of the Edge browser is currently in preview mode and aims to deliver gaming tips, guides, and additional resources directly within the gaming environment. The browser will also sync users’ browsing data from both their PC and mobile devices. Compatible with Windows 11, Edge Game Assist is accessible to players using Microsoft Edge Beta 132.
Introduction of Edge Game Assist
Players can activate Edge Game Assist via the Game Bar overlay on Windows, enabling them to surf the web without stepping away from their game. Microsoft reports that a significant 88 percent of PC gamers utilize web browsers while playing to seek assistance, monitor progress, connect with friends, or consume media.
Addressing a common challenge for gamers, Microsoft highlighted that switching to a mobile device or minimizing the game to check the desktop disrupts gameplay. The company noted in a blog post about the new browser, “Without multiple monitors, players cannot simultaneously access guides or browse while staying engaged in their game.”
Game Assist will overlay on top of the current game, providing tailored tips and guides relevant to what the user is playing. Moreover, it preserves users’ browsing history, favorites, cookies, and other data synced from Edge on both PC and mobile, ensuring familiarity and convenience. Additionally, it offers quick access to social platforms like Discord, Twitch, and Spotify in the sidebar.
Key Features of Game Assist
Functioning as a widget within the Game Bar, Game Assist allows gamers to view gameplay guides while continuing to play. The Game Bar, which can be opened by pressing Win+G, includes other widgets for connecting with friends, monitoring achievements, capturing screenshots, adjusting audio settings, and accessing services like Spotify and Teams.
Game Assist can be resized and repositioned to suit user preferences. It features gaming-centric elements, displaying a selection of gaming tabs and sidebar applications. When a new tab is opened, it highlights resources such as game tips and hints tailored to specific titles.
This preview version currently supports only English and includes a range of popular PC games. Microsoft plans to enhance Game Assist continuously based on user feedback. Games like Baldur’s Gate 3, Diablo IV, Fortnite, Hellblade II: Senua’s Saga, League of Legends, Minecraft, Overwatch 2, Roblox, and Valorant are among those supported. Additional tips and guides for other titles will be introduced in the future. Users can also access web-based guides for any game they are playing.
Edge Game Assist is available as an optional public preview. To participate, users need to ensure that both Windows and Game Bar are fully updated. Additionally, they must be using the Beta or Preview channel of Microsoft Edge, and set Edge Beta as their default browser. The setup process involves navigating to Settings and more (“…”) > Settings, then searching for Game Assist and selecting Install widget.
