Microsoft on Tuesday launched Xbox Cloud Gaming in India as its latest cloud gaming service. The new feature will allow users to play a variety of Xbox exclusive and non-exclusive games such as Arc Raiders, Call of Duty: Warzone, Asphalt Legends, Rainbow 6 Siege X, and Halo Infinite on iOS and Android phones, tablets, Macs, PCs, select smart TVs, and Amazon Fire TV sticks. Users will need a compatible wireless controller, one of three Xbox Game Pass subscriptions, and a stable internet connection with a minimum download speed of 10 Mbps.
What is Xbox cloud gaming?
Xbox Cloud Gaming is Microsoft’s new game streaming service. The game is currently available in India, with upgraded Game Pass Essential, Premium and Ultimate subscriptions launched in October. It allows users to remotely access a variety of cloud-playable games without the need for an Xbox console. The service is available through the Xbox app on compatible PCs, Macs, iOS and Android phones and tablets, select LG and Samsung smart TVs, Amazon Fire TV and Fire TV Cube.
Gamers can connect a Microsoft Xbox controller, Sony DualSense controller, or any other compatible Bluetooth controller to play games in the library, and some games also feature keyboard and touch support. However, since it streams games from the cloud, you will always need a high-speed and stable internet connection. Additionally, a download speed of at least 10 Mbps is required to start streaming games. The US tech giant advises people to use a Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection “for the best experience”.
The list of cloud games includes “Call of Duty: Black Ops 7”, “Hollow Knight: Silk Song”, “Dotson Detective”, “Palace on the Hill”, “Raj: Ancient Epic”, “Overwatch 2”, etc. You’ll need to pay a single subscription fee to play these games remotely, without the need for a flagship device with top-tier hardware specs. The Game Pass Essential plan offers 50 games, unlimited cloud streaming, online and multiplayer gaming access and is priced in India at Rs. 499.
On the other hand, Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass Premium and Ultimate plans cost Rs. Rs.699. 1,389 respectively. The top subscription, Game Pass Ultimate, also gives members access to games on the day they are released.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to access Xbox Cloud Gaming on a variety of devices.
How to use Xbox cloud gaming function on smartphone?
If you purchased one of the three Xbox Game Pass subscriptions and meet the other requirements listed above, here’s how you can access Xbox Cloud Gaming on Android and iOS phones:
- Open Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome or Safari on your phone > Visit xbox.com/play.
- Then add the Xbox web app to your home screen.
- Sign in with your Microsoft account.
- Connect a compatible Bluetooth wireless controller.
- After that, you can search for the game you want to play from the library and click Play.
How to use Xbox cloud gaming feature on laptop?
Here’s how to access Xbox Cloud Gaming on your Mac or PC:
- Open one of the above three browsers > visit xbox.com/play.
- according to login and enter your username and password.
- Other steps are the same as for smartphones, connect the wireless controller, find the game and press Play.
How to use Xbox cloud gaming function on smart TV?
Check out how to use Xbox Cloud Gaming on compatible LG and Samsung smart TVs and the Amazon Fire TV Stick:
- Download and open the Xbox app.
- Follow the on-screen instructions > Press login and enter your credentials.
- Connect a supported wireless controller to your smart TV or Fire TV Stick via Bluetooth.
- Search for the game you want to play and click Play.
FAQ
Which devices support Xbox cloud gaming?
The list of compatible devices includes PCs, Macs, iOS and Android phones and tablets, select LG and Samsung smart TVs, Amazon Fire TV and Fire TV Cube.
What controllers can I use to play Xbox cloud gaming?
Users can use official Xbox wireless controllers, verified non-Microsoft wireless controllers, or Bluetooth controllers designed specifically for Xbox consoles.
Can I use touch controls with Xbox Cloud Gaming?
Yes, some games support touch and keyboard controls.
Which browsers support Xbox cloud gaming?
Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome and Safari support Xbox cloud gaming.
Do I need to download an app to access Xbox Cloud Gaming on my Smart TV?
Yes, you need to download and install the Xbox app on a compatible Samsung or LG smart TV.
