Get ready, ARM-powered PC gaming is becoming a reality!

There is one significant shift taking place within computing, in favor of Reduced Instruction Set Computer (RISC) architecture. In particular, moving toward the use of Advanced RISC Machine (ARM). This is making its way from mobile into gaming.

ARM architecture – the real game-changer

ARM processors, the powerhouses behind our smartphones, are now stepping into the PC arena, bringing more efficiency and power. Apple and Qualcomm are leading the way with their M1, M2, M3 and Snapdragon X chips respectively, setting new standards showing that ARM can deliver impressive performance while keeping laptop computers cool and lightweight – just what the gaming world needs.

What could ARM-based PCs in gaming look like?

With all these advancements, gaming on ARM-based PCs looks incredibly exciting. As ARM processors get better, we can expect even more stellar performance, longer battery life and super-smooth gaming experiences. Gamers want portable, powerful systems that can handle long sessions without needing constant recharging. But let’s not kid ourselves – this transition comes with its own set of challenges.

Challenges of ARM technology in gaming

• Software compatibility and emulation: A lot of apps and drivers designed for x86 systems don't run perfectly on ARM-based PCs. While Microsoft has improved emulation technology with Windows on ARM, native drivers are necessary for optimal performance. This means significant effort is required to port drivers as well as tweak games and other complex applications to perform well on ARM architecture.
• Driver support: All hardware drivers written for x86 systems need to be reworked; a lengthy process that can delay the availability of fully compatible devices. Additionally, peripheral devices will not work due to the lack of native ARM drivers.
• Performance consistency: While ARM chips like Apple’s M1 have shown impressive benchmarks, keeping performance consistent across different apps and use cases is a challenge. Gaming, with its demanding graphics and processing needs, can especially expose these inconsistencies.

Microsoft announced a new series of ARM-powered PCs

Microsoft recently introduced the Copilot+ PCs – a new category of Windows 11 devices. These ARM-powered PCs (powered by the Snapdragon® X Series), features state-of-the-art processing power from the computing, graphics and neural processing units. These advanced Surface laptops are the result of a strong partnership between Qualcomm and Microsoft.

Denuvo’s role in supporting ARM-based PC gaming

Microsoft and Qualcomm have also teamed up with Denuvo! They have given us access to the latest ARM advancements – pre-release builds, development guides and expertise from their engineering teams.  

This collaboration has been vital in making sure Denuvo’s security solutions function flawlessly on ARM-based systems. We are keeping to our high standards of security and performance, while giving game developers the confidence to embrace ARM-based systems. 

We are not only adapting to the future, we are helping to shape it. 

If you want your games to run smoothly and securely on the latest ARM-based systems, contact us!