Tired of downloading entire PC games from the Microsoft Store, only to realize half of it is bloat you don't need? Microsoft is testing a solution. A new update in the Canary Channel (Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27788) allows users to choose which components of a game to download, offering granular control over storage space and data usage.

Imagine downloading a game like Call of Duty but opting out of the single-player campaign to save space, or skipping the ultra-high-resolution texture packs if you're running older hardware. That's the promise of this new feature.

"Once your game is installed, you can return to its product page, click the new Manage button, and modify what components are installed," Microsoft says.

This is a welcome change for those who struggle with limited storage or data caps. For gamers with older PCs, avoiding unnecessary high-resolution assets can free up valuable hard drive space and prevent broadband data overages. Even for users with ample resources, the ability to customize downloads is a step in the right direction.

While many PC gamers prefer Steam, this improvement addresses one of the Microsoft Store's long-standing pain points. Smaller game downloads and more control over installed content make the Microsoft Store a more viable option, particularly for users integrated into the Windows ecosystem.

The feature is currently being tested in the Canary Channel, alongside support for the MIDI 2.0 specification. While there's no firm release date for the stable version, the testing suggests Microsoft is serious about improving the PC gaming experience within its store.

This small tweak has potential for bigger implications. Modular downloads could make the Microsoft Store more appealing, ultimately benefiting both gamers and Microsoft.