When we initially introduced our DirectX mapping layers, our goal was to enable applications written in other graphics APIs, including DX9, DX11 and OpenGL, to run on DirectX12 systems if a native driver is not available. We’ve written about the OpenGL mapping layer previously and how we developed it by contributing OpenGL on DX12 (GLon12) to the Mesa 3D open-source project, allowing the graphics community to leverage our work for their needs.  This open development approach has proven beneficial for GLon12, with the engagement exceeding our expectations, adding Xbox GDK support to the Mesa project in 2022.

Once GDK support was added, it allowed OpenGL based titles to compile and link the GLon12 mapping layer in their app, enabling them to run on the DirectX-only Xbox console.  This is exactly what Tribute Games has done to take STEEL ASSAULT, an OpenGL based title, and bring it over to the Xbox Series X|S.

We’re super excited to see the developer community contributing to GLon12 and can’t wait to see what other titles utilize this to come to Xbox.

Further Reading on Mapping Layers:

• Celebrating 20 Years of DirectX 9 – DirectX Developer Blog (microsoft.com)
• Open Sourcing Direct3D 9 on 12 and the Release of the DXBC Signer NuGet Package – DirectX Developer Blog (microsoft.com)
• Announcing the OpenCL™ and OpenGL® Compatibility Pack for Windows 10 on ARM – DirectX Developer Blog (microsoft.com)
• In the works: OpenCL™ and OpenGL® mapping layers to DirectX – DirectX Developer Blog (microsoft.com)
• D3D12 Translation Layer and D3D11On12 are now open source – DirectX Developer Blog (microsoft.com)
• Direct3D 11 on 12 Updates – DirectX Developer Blog (microsoft.com)