Xbox's "Stream your own game" feature continues to expand, recently adding more than 32 games to the service. The latest additions were highlighted by @redphx on X (formerly Twitter), and there are some gems among the list.

There's obviously the highly-rated 007 First Light, which is also an Xbox Play Anywhere title, but seeing games like Bastion added is a nice surprise, alongside Untitled Goose Game and My Time at Portia.

Stream your own game does exactly what the name suggests, letting you stream titles that you already own across supported devices without needing to install them, whether it's your phone, tablet, PC, or even a compatible TV. The feature is over a year old now, with hundreds and hundreds of games available.

• ABZU
• Arcadia: Find The Differences 3D
• Axiom Verge
• Axiom Verge 2
• Bastion
• Beyond Blue
• Bright Paw: Definitive Edition
• Children of Zodiarcs
• Downward: Enhanced Edition
• 007 First Light
• Dragon Spira
• Ghostrunner
• Guess the Flag! - World Flags Quiz
• Messy Up
• My Time At Portia
• PBA Pro Bowling
• Petey Pedro unBEETable Adventure
• Pizza Tycoon
• Potionomics: Masterwork Edition
• Railway Empire
• Railway Empire 2
• Recipe of Love
• River City Girls
• River City Girls 2
• SUDOKU CHAMPIONS
• Spiritfall
• Stable Stories - Forest and Meadow Ride
• Turbo Overkill
• Untitled Goose Game
• Where Is Billy
• Yoku's Island Express

Over 1,000 games is a lot, and the list of available games is growing all the time. While it's not a feature I personally use very often, I can definitely see the appeal for those who do.

With all that said, let me know your thoughts on Xbox's feature. Do you use it, or is it something you've never really touched? Let me know in the comments, and be sure to take part in our poll below:

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Via a new report from Tecnoblog, a Brazilian website that appears to have shared the first look at a new Xbox controller designed specifically for Xbox Cloud Gaming. The controller itself looks like a smaller, squashed-down version of the Xbox controller we’ve all come to know, and honestly, I kind of like it.

In the report, Tecnoblog revealed documentation it allegedly obtained, which included the following details:

“The controller will come with a 500 mAh battery, and that, in terms of connectivity, it uses Bluetooth and Wi-Fi 6 (restricted to 20 MHz band). The chip used for this is Realtek's RTL8730E, with two 1.2 GHz ARM Cortex-A7 cores.”

The most interesting detail here is the Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, giving the controller direct-to-WiFi functionality. Essentially, this cuts out the middleman, which would usually be a console, PC, or phone, potentially allowing for lower latency, easier switching between devices, and a much better experience for cloud gaming.

Now, direct-to-WiFi is actually something we’ve reported on before. In my colleague Jez Corden’s “Xbox in 2026” report, he discussed how Microsoft is expected to feature this functionality in its next-generation controllers in an effort to eliminate Bluetooth latency for cloud gaming.

With this controller now seemingly out in the wild, it appears what Jez was told seems to be pretty accurate. While this is just one controller, it would make sense for Xbox to support this functionality across future controllers moving forward, given their cloud gaming efforts.

Currently, we aren’t sure when this controller could be released, and, as Tecnoblog states, there’s currently no evidence of the device appearing at the FCC, meaning there are no public regulatory filings for the controller yet, so, despite the images, take this controller with a pinch of salt.

I, for one, am all for this little controller (depending on the price), though I would’ve loved to see it launch alongside the now-canceled Project Keystone device we heard about years ago that never materialized. For those unfamiliar, Keystone was reportedly a small set-top box that would essentially function as a cloud-based Xbox for streaming games.

What do you think of what I’ll dub the “Micro Xbox Controller” for now? Do you like it, or are you not a fan?

Let me know in the comments, and be sure to take part in our poll above!

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Xbox fans with an Apple TV have something to get excited about, at least in a somewhat limited way, as some fans have taken it upon themselves to bring Xbox Cloud Gaming to Apple TV, and it actually looks fantastic.

I say "limited" because the setup process is not as simple as installing an app from the App Store. Instead, it requires Xcode, meaning you have to build it yourself and effectively sideload it onto your Apple TV.

With that in mind, however, Stratix is a native Apple TV app that brings your Xbox Cloud Gaming subscription to the device. It is built in Apple’s Swift language and gives you full access to your Xbox cloud library.

What's most interesting about this app is just how clean it looks. This genuinely puts what Microsoft makes to shame, and it is easily a better implementation than existing Xbox Cloud solutions on Apple TV.

Not to throw shade at OneCast, as it is currently the best solution available on the Apple TV App Store, but Stratix looks like something Apple could have made itself, and it fits the Apple TV aesthetic far more naturally.

It is unfortunate that the installation process is not as straightforward, though. That said, the developers provide a full guide, and they are open to feedback as the app is still in an early public alpha.

Stratix supports Remote Play from your console, sign in via a QR code, profiles, and achievements, etc., but there are still limitations. The app does not yet support multi-account use or party and invite features. That said, these issues are known, and the team is upfront about them.

Personally, I hope Xbox itself sees this app and potentially even decides to fund it, bringing a full Xbox Cloud Gaming experience to the Apple TV ecosystem. It would be a great way to secure another win, especially as Xbox has been on a strong run lately.

If I still had my Apple TV, I would be installing this right after finishing this write-up. Unfortunately for me, I gave it to my parents. Whoops.

Let me know your thoughts on Stratix, whether you would use it or not, and why. And as always, make sure to take part in our poll!

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A free, open-source GitHub project called OpenNOW is gaining a lot of attention in the PC gaming community as an alternative to the native NVIDIA GeForce Now app.

OpenNOW, created and maintained by the OpenCloud community, is built for use with Windows (ARM64 support included), macOS, and Linux (x64 or ARM64), and as its creators state, it "aims to give players a transparent, customizable alternative to the official client without hiding the technical parts from contributors."

NVIDIA GeForce Now is a cloud gaming service that rivals Xbox Cloud Gaming in its reach and appeal, allowing gamers who don't necessarily have a powerful PC to enjoy games running on top-tier hardware.

Unfortunately, not all GeForce Now subscribers love the native app offered by NVIDIA. Those users now have this alternative, assuming NVIDIA's legal team doesn't get involved.

Why is OpenNOW getting so much attention as a GeForce Now alternative?

It's explicitly stated that you must use your own GeForce Now account with OpenNOW; this isn't some way to get around subscription fees. So why is OpenNOW getting so much attention? Although it's only been around and under active construction since late 2025, it has now picked up 1.5K stars on GitHub.

The biggest perk for many gamers is a lack of AFK limitations. You know how GeForce Now will drop you out of a game if you walk away and get distracted for more than a few minutes? That doesn't happen in OpenNOW.

It's also clearly stated on the OpenNOW GitHub page that the app does not collect any sort of telemetry. Authentication of your GeForce Now account is all done through NVIDIA servers, and game settings and any media you capture stay on your PC.

Beyond privacy and telemetry concerns, OpenNOW is just easy to use. It offers a robust set of stream controls you can use to adjust performance and graphics. It has built-in performance monitoring and diagnostic tools. Search is streamlined for your games and private games. And the app handles captures, audio, and controller navigation.

Perhaps the best part is that it's open source. That means savvy developers can fork their own version and apply changes as they see fit.

The OpenNOW app's website shows that it's working on adding features like voice chat, instant replay, themes, and custom scripts and extensions, and with the rate at which the app is currently being updated, I don't expect these features to be missing for too long.

NVIDIA GeForce Now vs. OpenNOW: Which one should you use?

OpenNOW does have some limitations compared to its official NVIDIA counterpart, and I'm sure that many PC gamers won't want to give up features like Discord integration or Android compatibility. Not to mention HOTAS support for all the flight sim enthusiasts out there.

Still, OpenNOW should be a great option for anyone who's into privacy and advanced streaming controls. For those who want a more streamlined experience with official support, GeForce Now remains the go-to option.

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Thanks to @redphx over on X (formerly Twitter), we may have an early look at a possible new Game Pass tier.

Redphx regularly digs into Game Pass updates, sharing new additions, updates to “Stream your own game,” and even behind-the-scenes updates. They does this by checking data from Microsoft’s public-facing backend, which can sometimes reveal changes before they appear to the public.

What is Xbox Game Pass “TRITON” and what does it include?

“Triton” is potentially a new Game Pass program. However, unlike Essential, Premium, and Ultimate, it only includes games from Xbox Studios for now.

According to redphx, this includes:

• DOOM Eternal
• DOOM 64
• Dishonored 2
• Fable Anniversary
• Fallout 4
• Fallout 76
• Gears 5
• Halo 5: Guardians
• Halo Wars 2
• Hellblade
• Ori and the Blind Forest
• Psychonauts
• State of Decay 2
• The Elder Scrolls Online
• Retro Classics

We are recently fresh off the rumors that Asha Sharma is looking at ways to evolve Game Pass. This includes suggestions that Netflix could be bundled in, as well as potential efforts to reduce the cost of the service.

With that in mind, a new tier does not seem out of the question if those rumors are to be believed.

If you like these kinds of updates regarding Xbox Game Pass, be sure to go give @redpx a follow over on X to stay up-to-date with any new codenames or other Game Pass-related details.

Would you be interested in a new Game Pass tier that only includes first party games?

I am not entirely sure how I feel about a new tier like this. Personally, I would prefer options that let me remove things like Fortnite Crew and other additions I do not use from my Game Pass Ultimate subscription.

Paying for features I do not care about can feel frustrating, which leads me to agree with Jen's recent piece on Game Pass, which I highly recommend you give a read and check out.

With that said, let me know your thoughts in the comments, and be sure to take part in the poll below:

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Xbox’s cloud gaming hours from Game Pass subscribers are up 45% year over year. Console players are also spending 45% more time using cloud streaming, with an estimated 1.7 billion hours streamed in 2025 alone.

It’s no surprise, then, that Xbox continues expanding its “Stream Your Own Game" catalog, letting players stream titles they already own via Xbox Cloud Gaming.

That includes recent additions like Marathon, Crimson Desert, and more, so let’s take a look at the 40-plus titles added this past month.

Over 45 games join xbox stream your own game

There’s over 45 games here, so if you wish to see the full list, I recommend clicking here for the full catalog. Instead, I’ll highlight a few standouts, including when they were released or when they're going to be, so without further ado, here you go:

Stream your own game is a feature that often flies under the radar. It launched in 2024 with around 50 games but has quickly expanded and now likely sits in the 300+ range of streamable titles. So long as you own the game.

It’s also interesting to see Marathon enter the list, especially as it is a Sony-published title. That said, Helldivers 2 made a similar move, but I’m still praying for a true Xbox app release and Play Anywhere support for both titles.

Still, seeing major titles like Crimson Desert alongside releases like Monster Hunter Stories 3 is a strong sign of how quickly the library is growing.

Stream your own game is available for all Xbox Game Pass subscribers, which includes Essential, Premium, and Ultimate tiers.

🎮 Do you use Xbox's Stream your own game feature?

I can’t say it’s a feature I use much. I’m generally not that into cloud gaming, as my experiences with it haven’t been ideal.

That said, I do appreciate Xbox’s efforts to offer more ways to play, I just prefer using actual hardware over streaming.

Let me know your thoughts on Xbox’s Stream your own game feature. Do you use it, or not? Let me know in the comments, and be sure to take part in our poll below:

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

NVIDIA is having a busy week at the GDC 2026 conference, and its GeForce Now game streaming service is at the forefront with new features and new games just announced.

Similar to a browser extension I highlighted last year that lets you know which Steam games are also available on Xbox Game Pass, NVIDIA's GeForce Now is set to receive in-app labels on games that you already have access to in your Xbox Game Pass and Ubisoft+ subscriptions.

NVIDIA notes that this feature is designed to improve game discoverability, and it appears that you'll be able to launch these games directly from NVIDIA's app.

Also coming to GeForce Now is an expansion to single sign-on capabilities that I first saw with Battle.net and again with Gaijin at CES 2026. In April, NVIDIA will unlock similar single sign-ons for GOG.com accounts, making it easier to authenticate but once to have access to all titles.

As it currently stands, there are more than 4,000 games available through GeForce Now, whether as Ready-to-Play or Install-to-Play. The list is always growing, and indeed, there are five new notable games on the way.

• Control Resonant
• Resident Evil Requiem
• Crimson Desert
• Samson: A Tyndalston Story
• Active Matter

Perhaps more relevant to our readers here at Windows Central is that NVIDIA's list of Install-to-Play games is expanding with new Xbox titles, including Brutal Legend, Quantum Break, and Contrast.

PC gamers who rely on GeForce Now to deliver their VR headsets new games are also getting some good news. On March 29, GeForce Now Ultimate subscribers will be able to stream at 90 FPS, which is a particularly huge upgrade in the VR world, considering the previous max was 60 FPS.

VR headsets that support GeForce Now include the Apple Vision Pro, Meta Quest, and Valve Index, as well as several older headsets that no longer receive as much attention (like the HP Reverb G2).

Windows Central's take on NVIDIA GeForce Now improvements

NVIDIA GeForce Now is largely regarded as the go-to game streaming service if you're looking for top-tier performance, and it competes directly with Xbox Cloud Gaming, which is available through Game Pass Ultimate.

Considering GeForce Now can deliver up to a 5K resolution at 120 FPS or a QHD resolution at 240 FPS, it makes it fairly easy (and economical) to enjoy games at a much higher quality than you'd be able to enjoy on lower-tier PC hardware.

With the PC hardware market undergoing one of its biggest hurdles ever, caused by DRAM and NAND shortages driven by AI, it's not a stretch to imagine that a lot of PC gamers will eventually turn to a cloud service.

👉 Conspiracy theory or apt prediction? — The AI-fueled hardware shortage will kill local PCs, paving the way for subscription-based cloud computing

These improvements announced at GDC 2026 aren't exactly major, but it is great to see the service continuing to get so much attention as interest in the platform heats up.

What do you think about these GeForce Now improvements?

Were you hoping for more GeForce Now news out of GDC 2026? Are you happy with the updates to VR game streaming, new game additions, and the new in-app labels?

I also want to know if you're a regular user of GeForce Now or any other cloud gaming services. Is it the best you've used? Why or why not? Please let me know in the comments section!

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

NVIDIA's GeForce NOW announced a native Linux app at CES earlier this year, following similar plans in 2025 when it revealed a Steam Deck app at the same show. Now, it's expanding to more traditional desktop distributions, starting with the Debian-based Ubuntu (24.04 and later).

We already saw NVIDIA update its cloud-based gaming rigs to RTX 5080 GPUs last year, supporting up to 5K rendering at 120 FPS or 1080p at 360 FPS with low-latency streaming. At least this time, it's about something more exciting than supplementing the lower-end graphics capabilities of smart TVs and handhelds.

If you've never tried GeForce NOW, it's the same as how Xbox Cloud Gaming lets you rent a remote console to stream Microsoft's games, except you're borrowing a high-end gaming PC from an NVIDIA server that's closest to you. That, and you get access to multiple digital libraries in one combined view, including Steam and PC Game Pass.

Testing GeForce NOW for myself

It's viable to use GeForce NOW just for free-to-play games like Fortnite, and that's part of what makes this Linux build so interesting: it's an answer to popular titles that are lacking native ports. That, and I could even connect my Battle.net account to stream World of Warcraft on practically any device at this point if I desperately need to hand in some daily quests.

I'm particularly happy to say that GeForce NOW's overall responsiveness is getting eerily good. It's actually living up to the low-latency hyperbole I've heard from its advertising over the years, and faster games are now totally playable. Before, I'd mostly relied on cloud gaming for turn-based RPGs and other slow-paced titles, but this is seriously changing my habits.

I did test it on another distro besides Ubuntu (and SteamOS), but Bazzite isn't there yet. GeForce NOW loads and logs in, but it's unstable, and an error forces the app to close after a minute. Not a huge deal for me, since the majority of my cloud gaming is on my much-loved Steam Deck, but I'll keep trying.

In particular, it's the mouse and keyboard latency that I want to test after these GeForce NOW upgrades, and Linux might as well be the testing ground. I'm in no danger of hitting NVIDIA's 100-hour streaming limit, so I'm happy to boot up the same game (or any other) over and over again to see how it compares to running PC games natively in Windows.

For now, if you're running Ubuntu and you have an active GeForce NOW account, you could give it a shot with the free tier, which offers 1-hour play sessions as a kind of trial experience. On other distros, your experience will vary, since they won't be officially supported. Then again, most enthusiast-grade Linux users won't care about that and see it as more of a challenge than a roadblock — let me know in the comments if you find success.

Do you ever use NVIDIA GeForce NOW to stream PC games over the cloud? Let me know in the comments if the poll doesn't quite fit your answer, or if you know something interesting about it that I don't!

Xbox has officially unveiled its new Cloud Gaming web experience, and at first glance, it should feel familiar to anyone who has used an Xbox console. The layout closely mirrors the console interface, making it immediately approachable, and eager-eyed fans may notice it resembles the datamined UI that leaked a couple of months ago.

That said, this is a public preview, and things could change. Even in its current form, it represents a clear improvement over the existing web experience, both visually and in how it flows, which makes it an encouraging step forward.

Here’s how you can try it for yourself right now, along with a closer look at the new experience

A noticeable improvement

When accessing Xbox’s cloud gaming experience before, it kinda felt a bit like opening the Xbox app. That familiarity is not always a good thing (I'm not a fan of the Xbox app), and it has often left the web version feeling clunky and dated in my experience.

With this new public preview, users can switch to a far more console-like experience. The interface is cleaner, more structured, and much closer to what you would expect when powering on an Xbox.

To access the new experience, follow these steps:

1. Go to xbox.com/play in your browser of choice and make sure you’re logged into your Xbox account.
2. Once logged in, go to settings in the top right corner by clicking on your profile.
3. Select the Settings option from the drop down menu.
4. Here under Account, toggle the option Preview Features and select Yes when asked.
5. You’ll then have to wait as the features are enabled, which may take up to 10 minutes.
6. Once done, visit play.xbox.com in your browser of choice to experience the new cloud UI.

Glimpse into the future of Xbox UI?

After spending some time with it while writing this, it feels like a meaningful step forward for Xbox Cloud Gaming. Navigation is clearer, the layout feels more intentional, and it is simply more pleasant to use overall.

There are still bugs and rough edges, which are expected in a public preview. Even so, the experience already feels like a noticeable improvement, and it naturally raises questions about where this approach could appear next across future Xbox experiences.

A more unified UI across devices would be a welcome change. I am very much looking at you, Xbox Ally, because the Xbox app just is not cutting it on the Xbox Ally X for me. A more console-like experience would be a clear step in the right direction.

If you do try it out for yourself, Xbox has pleaded with users to provide feedback, so make sure to check the full Xbox Wire article on just how to do that.

Cloud gaming may not be everyone’s daily driver yet, but this redesign makes it a lot easier to imagine a future where it is. Now, Xbox just needs to keep the momentum going.

Have you tried the new Xbox Cloud Gaming web experience yet, and does it feel like a step forward compared to the current interface? Let us know in the comments or by taking part in our poll below:

Despite its 50% price increase drama last year, Game Pass continues to assemble a fairly compelling line-up. Xbox has framed the higher cost as a way to support more frequent day one releases, particularly within the Ultimate tier, while also extending Xbox Cloud Gaming access beyond its previous limits.

That expansion does come with some compromises, with Microsoft set to introduce advertising to Xbox Cloud Gaming later this year. Still, the more immediate focus for subscribers is what Xbox Wire has just revealed, and there is plenty for Game Pass fans to look forward to as January 2026 continues.

The second half of the month is shaping up particularly well, with Death Stranding Director’s Cut leading the charge when it arrives on Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S on January 21, 2026. While it may not be for everyone, fans can expect the familiar Hideo Kojima spectacle, built around deliberate traversal, striking visuals, and a world that rewards patience as much as progress.

Here’s a full rundown of everything coming to Xbox Game Pass and when:

Looking ahead to the end of January, the Game Pass line-up leans heavily into variety, with several very different games landing in quick succession. Death Stranding Director’s Cut is the obvious headliner, arriving on January 21 across Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S. It remains a divisive game by design, but for those who connect with Hideo Kojima’s slower, more deliberate approach, this is still one of the more distinctive worlds you can explore on Xbox.

That same day also brings Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound, a side-scrolling revival of the classic series from the team behind Blasphemous. It looks set to appeal to players who miss tightly designed, punishing action games, while RoadCraft goes in the opposite direction with a slower-paced construction sim focused on rebuilding disaster-stricken environments, either solo or in co-op.

Things continue to pick up later in the month with The Talos Principle 2 on January 27, a thoughtful follow-up that expands on the original game’s puzzles and narrative themes. January 28 then adds Anno: Mutationem and Drop Duchy, offering a mix of cyberpunk action RPG combat and roguelite strategy, respectively.

Perhaps most exciting for me, even though I already own it, is Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine II, which arrives on January 29. It is easily one of the strongest games on the list, bias fully acknowledged, and its addition to Game Pass makes it far easier to jump into co-op with my friends, which is where the game truly shines.

Other little tidbits

Xbox Wire also highlights a few additions that some players may have missed, including Quarantine Zone: The Last Checkpoint, which is available today on PC Game Pass. The game places players in charge of a checkpoint during a zombie outbreak, tasking them with inspecting survivors and preventing the infected from slipping through.

Grounded 2 fans can also look forward to a new update on January 27, with the Garden update introducing a Community Garden biome packed with new areas to explore.

Alongside new additions, several games are set to leave Game Pass on January 31. These include Shady Part of Me, Starbound, Lonely Mountains Snow Riders, Paw Patrol World, Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector, and Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap.

Overall, the late January line-up does a good job of showcasing the breadth of Game Pass, blending high-profile releases with smaller titles that cater to very different tastes.

Don’t forget, Xbox has their developer direct on January 22, which will showcase upcoming releases this year, including Fable, Forza Horizon 6, Beast of Reincarnation, and maybe more, so make sure to keep your eyes out for that.

Which of the late January Xbox Game Pass additions are you planning to try first? Share your picks in the comments below or vote in our poll:

It's tough to be a PC gamer. In the last few years we've had the pandemic and the ensuing chip shortages, we've had crypto bros scooping up every GPU that wasn't nailed down, and now, AI needs for all the RAM.

RAM is going up in price astronomically, and, unfortunately, it's a key component of any PC. But it's not worth buying when it costs what it does right now.

I've probably blown this trumpet before, but I'm going to do it again. Cloud gaming is the answer. Or rather, it might have to be the answer for many, whether we like it or not. If we can't build our own gaming PCs, then we can at least turn to someone else's.

Cloud gaming doesn't require a powerful PC. Or a PC at all.

The major benefit of cloud gaming is that you don't need much of a PC to take advantage of it. You don't actually need a PC at all.

RAM prices are, you would imagine, going to catch up with every aspect of the PC market before too long. If the prices don't settle, it will be inevitable that laptops, handhelds, pre-built desktops, even consoles and smartphones, could start to see related increases.

Cloud gaming takes that worry away somewhat, because you don't need new hardware. You can play on your current phone, your smart TV, your existing laptop or desktop, anything with a web connection and a browser.

Consider also, in some cases the cloud could actually be giving you an upgrade. NVIDIA's top tier of GeForce Now gives RTX 5080 level graphics performance. If you don't have one of those already, you can borrow theirs.

Xbox Game Pass has also upped its cloud game of late. If you're an Ultimate tier subscriber, you now get "high quality" streaming options at 720p and 1080p, alongside a 1440p "max quality" setting.

My colleague, Jez Corden, recently took a closer look at 1440p cloud gaming on Xbox Game Pass and the results speak for themselves, even if it looks like a carefully staged rollout.

While Xbox Cloud Gaming is geared primarily at Game Pass subscribers, it does also boast a growing "stream your own game" catalog. NVIDIA GeForce Now is entirely this model, buying a game on a supported platform and streaming it to your device.

The RAM crisis is going to make 2026 miserable

The problem with the RAM crisis is that everything needs RAM. Phones, tablets, laptops, desktops, handhelds, NAS enclosures, the humble Raspberry Pi. If it does computing of any kind, it needs some RAM.

So this isn't just going to affect the PC gamer wanting to build or upgrade a shiny desktop tower. It's going to affect everything.

We're yet to really see just how bad it's going to get. Obviously, buying sticks of DDR5 RAM right now is the biggest one we've seen. PC maker Maingear is now advising customers to bring their own RAM to the systems it builds to try to mitigate costs somewhat.

Likewise, Framework, known for its modular systems, has already issued multiple updates to pricing based on how expensive RAM is getting. It's doing a better job at keeping prices down than Apple (who's really surprised), but this is going to start affecting every company making hardware.

Keeping your existing hardware and using the cloud looks like making the most sense

2026 really doesn't look like being a fun time for anyone who wants a new PC. Especially if you want a PC for gaming. Already expensive hardware has the potential to skyrocket, and that's no fun for anyone.

What it means is that hanging onto whatever hardware we currently have looks like making the most sense. Fortunately, with the advances in cloud gaming technology in recent years, for many, this looks like being a good alternative.

I've been using cloud gaming for years now, and was one of those particularly aggrieved when Google shut down Stadia. Even back then it was genuinely impressive and at least console-quality.

NVIDIA and Microsoft are the best bets in the space right now, with options on both to stream Game Pass games and ones you buy. In NVIDIA's case, even with the impending 100 hours per month cap, you're going to get access to a better gaming PC in the cloud than most of us have at home.

At the very least, it's going to be worth trying. Both can be used now without paying for their respective top tiers, so you can at least get a feeling for it before committing.

Sure, it won't be the answer for everyone. You still need a reasonably good internet connection to get the best experience. But given the costly alternative, we might not have much choice in the coming year.

Microsoft is investing a ton in Xbox Cloud Gaming and Xbox PC right now, and we might've just gotten a small glimpse at the future.

Microsoft is repositioning Xbox as an "everywhere" platform, where players can expect to purchase content and then run it effectively across any device. It's essentially a strategy inspired by the likes of Minecraft, which has found its way to global domination by being literally everywhere — with content you can bring with you. An entire generation expects gaming to work this way now, and Microsoft is aiming to accommodate with devices like the Xbox Ally and the more Steam-like next-gen Xbox console.

However, in this very heavily digital-first future, purchase and ownership confidence needs to be at the absolute forefront. And there's a snag there potentially.

Redphx, developer of the excellent Better xCloud app, has been following Microsoft's moves on the Xbox Cloud Gaming platform quite closely. He tracks games that are hitting the service, either via Xbox Game Pass or Xbox "Stream Your Own Game," but also for the first time recently, games that are actually being removed from the service.

Microsoft seems to have lost the distribution rights for Dragon Quest Builders 2, Infinity Strash: Dragon Quest The Adventure of Dai, and Mechstermination Force.

Up until now, the only other game Redphx was able to track as being removed was ElecHead, which was later reinstated.

It's unclear why games might be getting removed from Xbox Cloud Gaming this way. It could be that Microsoft added them by mistake in the first place, having not properly acquired the rights to distribute them this way. First I thought it could be due to particularly low usage, but that doesn't make a whole lot of sense given how many other games are being added there.

Either way, it's problematic if a user has specifically purchased a game for cloud gaming, only to find it later removed. Regions like Brazil and India are becoming major cloud-first markets for Microsoft, so guarantees games you purchase will actually remain available seems to be incredibly important. If you did purchase these games digitally, they would still be available to play on an Xbox Series X|S console, but that doesn't help if you don't actually own one — and Microsoft keeps telling us everything is an Xbox these days.

We'll ask Microsoft to comment on the situation, but they're currently operating on reduced staffing for the holiday period.

UPDATE: Sources familiar with the situation tell me that this is an exception, rather than the rule. I'll see if we can get something concrete from Microsoft itself.

Microsoft now has over 2,000 games in Xbox Cloud Gaming as titles you can buy digitally specifically for cloud. The vast majority of them are indie-styled games, but there are a variety of very big names available on the service too, including The Witcher 3 and Cyberpunk 2077. Microsoft is also rolling out upgrades to 1440p streaming for specific titles on Xbox Cloud Gaming, for users with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.

But wait, there's more!

Redphx also uncovered another interesting morsel of news from Xbox Cloud Gaming recently, though, which might hint at a broader redesign for the interface.

Redphx found a promotional video and a URL that activates a new interface for Xbox Cloud Gaming, and there's also a promo video that contained a brief flash of what the layout might look like. Part of me has been wondering if this interface might not simply be for cloud, but Xbox PC in general.

Right now, the Xbox PC app interface is eventually going to be the interface for the next-gen Xbox console, using the Windows 11 Full Screen App experience seen on the Xbox Ally and other devices. The Xbox PC app right now is simply a big advertisement for Xbox Game Pass, but that would have to change a fair bit if it eventually comes to encompass everything your console is and does.

In the screengrab from the promo image above, you can see the layout actually looks a bit more similar to the Xbox PC app, rather than Xbox Cloud Gaming. There's also the back button, as well as the large feature content panels on the right — other aspects present on Xbox PC, but not Xbox Cloud Gaming. Instead of Xbox PC app icons on the left, we now have two new panels. One for friends by the looks of it, as well as another for your play history.

Microsoft added play history to Xbox PC and Xbox console over the summer. It brings in all of your recent games regardless of platform, as long as they're compatible. It's a useful tool for those who jump from platform to platform (as I do), making it quick and painless to access recently played games without having to jump through hoops.

A significant investment Microsoft is pushing forward for Xbox revolves around the idea of "play anywhere," whether it's cloud, PC, TVs, phones, or Xbox consoles. Unifying the interfaces between Xbox cloud, PC, and consoles is doubtlessly on the agenda, making me wonder if the above screencap isn't just intended for Xbox Cloud Gaming, but perhaps all of Xbox all up. If I had to guess, it was probably the latter.

Typically I'd just assume it was concept art, but considering it was found alongside the ability to "upgrade" to the new interface ... I'm guessing it's more than that. I'll keep digging for some hard confirmation, so hang tight.

UPDATE: Sources familiar tell me that this indeed representative of efforts to converge Xbox Cloud Gaming's interface and the Xbox PC app interface to match each other. There's a chance elements of this might extend to Xbox Series X|S as well. The digging continues. 🤔

I recently spoke to Falconeer developer Tomas Sala and New Blood Interactive's Dave Oshry on how Microsoft can improve the Xbox experience for devs and players alike. ID@Xbox chief Chris Charla said the firm is taking feedback to heart as it moves towards a more Steam-like platform for the next Xbox.

The Xbox Ally PC gaming handheld is the testbed for all of this stuff, and if the above interface is indeed a hint at the future of Xbox PC, we should see it on the Xbox Ally in early 2026 alongside the promised docking update.

This past summer marked Xbox Cloud Gaming shedding its beta tag finally, hitting version "1.0." With that came a barrage of changes.

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate notoriously picked up a huge price increase around this time, leaping 50% — eliminating years of good will overnight. The price increase overshadowed the fairly major Xbox Cloud Gaming news, which saw access expand beyond Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. If you're a cloud-first user, this equated to a price decrease potentially, as cloud gaming was only available on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate previously. It sounds as though the swap over has led to a huge increase in usage, who'd have thought.

In a blog post, Microsoft waxed lyrical about Xbox Cloud Gaming, describing its ascent: "Players are streaming their games more than ever — cloud gaming hours from Game Pass subscribers has increased 45% compared to this time last year," Microsoft said. "And, console players are embracing flexibility, spending 45% more time cloud streaming on console and 24% more on other devices."

Microsoft recently expanded availability in Central and South American markets, while also opening up Xbox Cloud Gaming in India for the first time. India represents the world's 7th biggest market for gaming spend, and crucially, it's typically a mobile and PC-first market, where consoles have seen limited distribution and availability.

Xbox Cloud Gaming is now live in 29 markets across the globe, although Microsoft highlighted Argentina and Brazil as showing "double digital growth" in players and playtime alike. Microsoft expanded Xbox Cloud Gaming to LG TVs and Amazon Fire TV sticks in these regions recently, joining Samsung TVs on top.

Microsoft's spotlight on Xbox Cloud Gaming is telling, as competitors start to get more serious about its potential.

Why Xbox Cloud? Let's read between the lines a bit.

With DRAM costs skyrocketing, cloud gaming has the potential to improve access to games on existing hardware solutions. Xbox Series X|S consoles have ballooned in price over time. It's all thanks to the artificial intelligence bubble "boom" vacuuming up all types of components and silicon. Backed by nation states under the guise of "national security," companies like OpenAI, Microsoft, and Google are vacuuming up DRAM orders from the very limited range of manufacturers to power their meme-creating mistake-machines and dementia-inducing chatbots.

But wait, Xbox Cloud Gaming uses DRAM too, right? Yes, but during periods of low use, i.e. at night, Microsoft allocates Xbox Cloud Gaming compute to AI and other Azure workloads, solving two "problems" with one server stack. Those server-hooked Xbox consoles don't simply sit idle when they're not being used for actual gaming, potentially offering a variety of ways to pump revenue back into Xbox beyond gaming itself. Microsoft arguably contributed to the DRAM price problem, but is also selling back the solution via "cheaper" access to Xbox Cloud Gaming. "Smart" ... right?

For better or worse, tying Xbox and gaming to Microsoft's current shareholder fads has helped Xbox navigate c-suite scepticism, with CEO Satya Nadella previously notoriously exploring killing Xbox entirely in years past. With Xbox now tied up to cloud and providing value beyond gaming itself, the business segment has become biggest than Windows itself for Microsoft in some quarters.

For gaming, the 45% "growth" year-over-year in playtime hours doesn't mean much without a frame of reference. Microsoft has stated in previous years that Xbox Cloud Gaming enjoys "tens of millions" of hours of playtime use per month — so you'd have to presume adding India, boosted capacity, and cheaper access via Xbox Game Pass Essentials has led to significant growth either way. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate also now offers boosted resolution and frame rates in some games on top, making it potentially a better experience on older devices like the Xbox One than actually playing games natively. Microsoft is also expected to ship a free Xbox Cloud Gaming tier supported by ads in 2026, joining NVIDIA GeForce Now and other smaller cloud providers.

Microsoft has over 2000 games you can buy to stream outside of the Xbox Game Pass library on top, but PlayStation caught up rapidly adding almost 3000 "bring your own games" to PlayStation's own cloud gaming service. NVIDIA GeForce Now also remains the performance-target to beat — but Xbox's latest upgrades are rapidly closing the gap.

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We are a few days away from the release of ASUS' ROG Xbox Ally, yet many folks are adverse to it's high MSRP of $599.99.

Thankfully, there are cheaper options for players wishing to enjoy gaming on the go. One such example is the Logitech G Cloud, one of the best Cloud Gaming handhelds. Right now, the refurbished option is on sale for $279.99 on Amazon.

Why should you buy a Logitech G Cloud over an Xbox Ally?

Logitech's first attempt at a gaming handheld has many notable qualities that make it worth your time and money, especially if you can't afford an Xbox Ally.

It has a lightweight and comfy design with a great ergonomic button layout.

It can stream Xbox Cloud Gaming titles and Steam games near-flawlessly with 1080p resolutions and 60FPS (frames per second) thanks to its Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G processor. This holds even if you have 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, which my colleague Zachary Boddy can attest to in his review of the Logitech G.

Plus, it has an insane battery life of 12 hours, built to withstand intense gaming sessions before needing to recharge.

That being said, it isn't perfect. The Logitech G Cloud requires a stable internet connection to run Cloud games without performance hiccups, controller support is inconsistent from game to game, and its built-in software isn't the most intuitive interface in the world.

If you can put those issues aside, then the Logitech G is a great, budget-friendly gaming handheld and one of the best gaming handhelds built for Cloud Gaming in the business.

This handheld normally costs $299.99 at retail, but Amazon is currently selling refurbished copies of the Logitech G Cloud in excellent condition with a 7% discount for $279.99.

That may seem like a negligible discount, but when you consider that this price is now over 50% cheaper than the Xbox Ally's steep MSRP of $599.99 at Amazon, it's practically a steal by comparison.

FAQ

Mobile and cloud gaming have become an integral part of the industry. So people have been turning to 3rd-party accessories like the Razer Kishi Ultra to turn their mobile devices into fully fledged gaming handhelds.

This critically-acclaimed controller with precise controls and advanced features normally runs for a high mark-up price of $149.99. Yet, Amazon has managed to put together a generous 30% discount for it, taking the controller's premium price tag down to $104.99.

Why should you buy the Razer Kishi Ultra?

What makes the Razer Kishi Ultra worth your money is that it essentially takes the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma, one of Razer's best Xbox controllers, splits it in half to fit mobile devices between it, and applies its outstanding controls and build quality for mobile and Cloud gaming.

It can connect to a wide range of mobile cases without taking them out of their cases and use pass-through USB charging, so you can charge your phone without removing the Razer Kishi Ultra.

Its controls are excellent with form-fitting ergonomic placement, satisfying click actuation, and laser-accurate input detection with Hall Effect triggers, so you can make precise and fast headshots while playing shooting games.

The Razer Kishi Ultra also sports audio-based universal haptics, which add immersive, dynamic vibrations while playing Android and PC games, optional RGB lighting, and built-in Nexus software that will allow you to remap the controller's buttons, joystick, triggers, and touch screen's functions.

The only real problem this mobile controller had was its premium MSRP of $149.99, which many people thought was too high for such a device.

Thankfully, this steep price has been mitigated by Amazon with this sweet 30% discount, so it's now $104.99 for a limited time.

So if you want one of the best Xbox accessories to help you better play your favorite Xbox Game Pass titles on the go via the Cloud with traditional controls instead of touch-screen control, then now's the perfect time to acquire a Razer Kishi Ultra.

FAQ

It’s a welcome surprise to see Helldivers 2 added to Xbox Game Streaming if you own a copy of the game. This helps to slightly ease one of my main concerns about the title’s arrival on Xbox, since it makes playing more flexible across devices.

I’ve also been curious about how games actually make it onto Game Streaming, but we'll likely never know the intricate details. With that said, let’s break down what this means for Xbox players and why it matters.

Shoutout to @redphx on X (formerly Twitter) for spotting this. Helldivers 2 has now been added as a Stream Your Own Game title, which means if you own a copy, you can stream it to any of your devices.

As I mentioned earlier, this does help address one of my main concerns about Helldivers 2 on Xbox. The game doesn’t support Xbox Play Anywhere or cross-save, and Arrowhead has been clear that it has no plans to add cross-progression. That’s disappointing, especially with the launch of the Xbox Ally on the horizon.

Still, being able to stream the game directly from Microsoft’s datacentres is a small but welcome consolation. Remote Play was always an option, but this feels like a more seamless solution for those on the go.

Helldivers 2 success on Xbox

Helldivers 2 has seen soaring success on Xbox, with one outlet even suggesting that the game shipped more in its first week on Xbox than it did on PlayStation. That’s something I’m sure Sony is happy with, as the game is reported to have sold nearly one million units according to Alinea Insight, and it has topped the best-selling games list on Xbox across several regions.

I was one of those many players, and of course, I got the Halo crossover. It hasn’t all been perfect for Helldivers 2, though. Recently, the developers spoke out about the game’s performance, expressing dissatisfaction with how it currently runs.

This comes after also voicing hopes to get Steam Deck support, with Shams Jorjani, Arrowhead’s CEO, stating:

Whilst Helldivers 2 does include a Steam Deck preset, it leaves a lot to be desired. It might not be a short-term priority for the studio, but as work on improving performance continues across the board, those upgrades will likely trickle down to the Steam Deck and other platforms.

Helldivers 2’s future on Xbox and beyond

The game did receive a fairly big update at the start of September 2025, with another major update planned soon. It’s great to see it added to Stream Your Own Game (not to be confused with Game Pass or Xbox Cloud Gaming). I hope Helldivers 2 continues to flourish in the Xbox ecosystem, as what Arrowhead has delivered so far is beyond impressive.

I’m still not fully sold on the cloud future of gaming, but more accessible ways to play are never a bad thing. With continued work on performance improvements, the experience should only get better across all platforms. For now, I’m sure many of you, like me, are still out there spreading sweet democracy across Helldivers 2 on Xbox, PC, and PlayStation.

While the masses focus on the Xbox Ally and next-gen Xbox console strategy, one pillar of Microsoft's gaming empire has remained somewhat hidden in the shadows.

Xbox Cloud Gaming is the most future-facing aspect of Microsoft's gaming ecosystem in my view. While Xbox Cloud Gaming is still in "beta," the service is better than ever, with thoroughly playable latency, a growing library of Xbox Cloud buy-to-own games, and hundreds of titles via Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.

Xbox Cloud Gaming is available via the web at xbox.com/play, and is installable as a web app on Android, iOS, and many Samsung and LG TVs. You can play cloud games on virtually any modern device, as long as you have an Xbox controller and a stable internet connection, preferably over 5 GHz Wi-Fi or better. Even on lower latency connections, there are many 2D and turn-based games that work well, such as XCOM 2 and WH40K: Rogue Trader.

But, what if you don't want to compromise? Xbox Cloud Gaming does suffer from latency issues occasionally, it's not as fast as NVIDIA GeForce Now either, nor does it offer the same bitrate and resolution options on the higher end. The library could also be better, even some of Microsoft's own games like Diablo 4 aren't available (yet) for a variety of reasons.

So, what does the future hold for Xbox Cloud Gaming? Here's a collection of hopes, dreams, and informed rumors from me to you.

Lower latency, boosted bitrate and resolution

One point of contention that revolves around Xbox Game Pass focuses entirely on its performance versus competing solutions. NVIDIA GeForce Now is generally considered the benchmark to beat both for quality and speed, and it's worth mentioning that it also supports PC Game Pass anyway. But if you wanted an all-in-one Xbox console solution, Xbox Cloud Gaming is your best bet.

Where Xbox Cloud Gaming tends to shine is in games with fixed camera angles or that run in 2 dimensions. The image quality algorithm seems to have an easier time handling frames when the entire picture doesn't need to refresh, and latency boosts come along with it.

It's not exactly a revelation to know that Microsoft is looking to improve the situation here. I've heard that Microsoft is already testing PC-based, rather than Xbox console-based servers for its next-gen cloud provision, while retaining backward compatibility with the existing library. Microsoft announced a partnership with AMD specifically to maintain Xbox console backward compatibility on its future chips, despite the broad expectation that they will be PC-oriented.

So, you can expect Microsoft's next-gen Xbox cloud to sport higher bitrate and resolution options, getting closer to NVIDIA's 4K GFN Ultimate tier. Microsoft's current-gen options reach for 1080p and 60 FPS at most, although it's not always able to hit those targets based on a variety of factors.

Microsoft has invested heavily in trying to reduce queue times in recent months, too, which may have contributed to stock issues for Xbox Series X|S consoles, since it's all the same silicon in essence. One thing that often contributes to queue times is less about server load, though, and more about game installation speeds.

If a game isn't "installed" on the best node for your connection, it has to pull the files from the network before the game can launch. Especially for larger games, this can induce long waits. As Microsoft scales up its local storage capacities for its data centers, this should be a less common issue.

Reduced waiting times, boosted resolution, and improved bitrates are all well and good, but Microsoft is working to shave latency from the user's end as well. Our sources tell us that the next-gen Xbox controllers (both standard and Elite models) will come with three separate signals. One is for Bluetooth, one is the current-gen Xbox wireless, and the other is Wi-Fi.

By connecting your Xbox controller directly to your home Wi-Fi, it will send those signals directly to Xbox Cloud servers, rather than passing through your connected device first. This will be a huge boost for gaming on TV sets, given that these types of devices aren't often equipped with the best Bluetooth radios.

A cheaper Xbox cloud-only subscription?

One advantage (but also disadvantage) NVIDIA GeForce Now has over Xbox Cloud Gaming is in its subscription tiers. NVIDIA GFN actually has a totally free tier at 1080p, although it comes with video ads and a "1 hour per session" time limit. The higher tiers go up to 1440p and 4K, respectively, without ads and 6 and 8-hour sessions.

Xbox Cloud Gaming keeps things a bit more simple. There are no time limits or ads, but there's currently one tier, via Xbox Game Pass Ultimate at $20 per month. This gets you PC Game Pass and Xbox Game Pass Core for online play on Xbox consoles. But what if you're a cloud-only gamer and don't need all the console bells and PC whistles?

One thing Microsoft is exploring is cloud-only subscription tiers. It's unknown whether these will match NVIDIA GFN or do things a bit differently. Microsoft and other platform holders have been exploring video ads for free games for quite some time, so it wouldn't be outside the realm of possibility that we get a free Xbox Cloud Gaming tier supported by purchases and ads.

I would expect Microsoft's basic cloud gaming tier to be cheaper than Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, but I wouldn't be surprised if, eventually, there's a premium Xbox Cloud Gaming tier that prioritizes 4K resolution and maybe even comes with other benefits.

To speculate, perhaps Microsoft will split its Xbox Cloud Gaming tier game libraries up similarly to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. I could see a standard cloud gaming tier that doesn't come with all the day-one games, similarly to Xbox Game Pass Standard. We'll have to wait and see.

An expanding library of games and features

Every few weeks, Microsoft expands the number of games you can play on Xbox Cloud Gaming. There are new titles you can buy to own, like the recent addition of Cult of the Lamb (thanks for that), and also games hitting the Game Pass library, such as Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3+4.

Microsoft has also been laboring to unify its user interface across all devices. The Xbox Game Bar, Xbox console, and now, Xbox Cloud Gaming web UI all have a very similar "Xbox Guide" menu. I expect these stylings and features will converge further over time, so that users get a consistent experience regardless of device and modality. I wouldn't be surprised if Xbox Cloud Gaming gains the ability to record clips and screenshots too in the future, connected to your OneDrive account.

Perhaps we even get some sci-fi features down the line, too, such as Quick Resume session hand-offs from console to PC to cloud. I wouldn't say no to cloud save upload indicators either ... for whoever is reading this.

In any case, Xbox Cloud Gaming continues to be a bit of an understated pillar of Microsoft's overall gaming ecosystem. Microsoft did say during its last financial report that Xbox Cloud Gaming continues to drive record playtime hours for the firm, and with buy-to-own games, it represents a new opportunity for developers to find bigger audiences. Microsoft also announced stream-your-own-game integration with the Xbox PC app library after I wrote this, too.

In short, Microsoft wants to create a cohort of players who are cloud-first, and maybe even cloud-only, and treat them like first-class citizens alongside console and PC players.

It remains to be seen whether "cloud" gaming will ever truly be mainstream, but as someone who uses it frequently as a companion platform, I'm encouraged by the ongoing investments.

In the rapidly expanding world of gaming handhelds, conversations are dominated by the Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and Windows PC gaming handhelds like the ASUS ROG Ally.

Whether it's a carefully curated experience with legendary exclusives, all the versatility and control of a gaming PC in your hands, or something in the middle, there's a gaming handheld for everyone these days.

Lately, though, the gaming handheld I've reached for more than my Nintendo Switch OLED or even my ASUS ROG Ally X doesn't fall into any of these categories, and instead belongs to an oft-forgotten and neglected group.

I've elevated the mobile gaming experience to all-new heights by combining the best Android-powered gaming tablet and the best mobile gaming controller to create something with a ridiculous amount of versatility, and it's quickly becoming one of my favorite ways to play.

A brief history of Android gaming handhelds

One of the first high-profile Android gaming handhelds was the Logitech G Cloud that I reviewed, and it's still a great device for cloud gaming if you can find it on sale.

Then I reviewed the Razer Edge Android handheld back in 2023, and a lot of it was discussing the viability of these mobile gaming devices and what problems needed to be addressed for a "Razer Edge 2" to truly succeed.

Fast forward to now, and... nothing of note has happened. Sure, our smartphones have gotten more powerful, mobile app stores like the Google Play Store have gotten bigger and more ambitious games, mobile controllers have dramatically improved, and cloud gaming has continued to get better with larger libraries and smoother performance.

No one is really taking a shot at combining all of these parts into one cohesive whole. It makes sense — most people have powerful phones in their pocket and can buy a mobile controller if they like, and hardcore gamers are more likely to buy a Switch or a more powerful PC handheld.

Does that mean there's no place for an Android-powered gaming handheld? I think there is, so I took matters into my own hands.

My ultimate pairing of tablet and controller

I went hands-on with the last-gen Razer Kishi Ultra mobile controller before my colleague reviewed it, and Razer used an iPad Mini to demo the peripheral. My first thought back then: "This is what the Razer Edge should be."

The ~8-inch display of the iPad Mini was the perfect size for mobile gaming, mirroring the best gaming handhelds but with far less bulk attached to it. Mobile controllers can also prioritize ergonomics without worrying about the internals or thermal management of your device, so this combination was immediately more comfortable than any dedicated handheld I've used.

Then I had an opportunity to test the Lenovo Legion Tab, an Android-powered iPad Mini competitor with an 8.8-inch display — but this tablet was designed from the ground up with gaming in mind.

In my Lenovo Legion Tab (Gen 3) review, I praised the design and performance. It's a fantastic device, and I couldn't ask for anything better to make my handheld dream a reality.

I then reviewed the Razer Kishi V3 Pro and praised it just as heartily. Finally, I had the best gaming tablet and the best mobile controller in one place, and it proved to me that I was right all along — the potential was always there, but companies aren't taking the risk.

Why I actually love this gaming experience

Mobile gaming gets a lot of flak, and there are a lot of good reasons for it, but there are also a lot of good reasons why mobile gaming is so successful.

With Android, you get full access to the growing library of native games (which includes more "full" console and PC games every day), a thriving ecosystem of emulation apps and communities to play classic games, and cloud gaming platforms to play practically everything else.

With the Legion Tab gaming tablet, you get a spacious, vibrant, and smooth 165Hz display, top-notch performance, and far superior battery life to any PC handheld.

With the Razer Kishi V3 Pro mobile controller, you get the surprisingly great Razer Nexus app, high-quality haptic feedback (including Razer's audio-to-haptics), Razer PC Remote Play for streaming from your gaming PC (but matched to the resolution and refresh rate of your device), and the ability to map your physical controls to the touch controls of any game that doesn't natively support controller input.

I played a lot of Minecraft, tried Zenless Zone Zero for the first time (which just released on Xbox, by the way), kicked a lot of butt in Call of Duty: Mobile, and streamed a lot of games through Xbox Cloud Gaming.

I can revisit the legendary Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic games (one of many titles available natively on Android), emulate some classic Nintendo games from long-gone consoles, and even hook the Legion Tab to an external display, keyboard, and mouse and go full desktop mode (or stream mouse and keyboard games).

Xbox Cloud Gaming was especially handy to have around, as it seems the service's performance and stability have improved a lot lately. I had no issues playing every game I threw at it, including Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.

Of course, I could also download NVIDIA GeForce Now for even more games and better performance. Cloud gaming is good enough now that games often look and run better than they do natively on PC handhelds, and there's a healthy library of games to play when you don't have a good internet connection.

Only problem? This handheld isn't cheap

Honestly, I think this is my new favorite gaming handheld. I know that may be blasphemous to say, but when it comes to simply having fun playing the games I want, this has been the best solution lately.

If Google were to add native controller support to Android and Gboard, game publishers would bring more full games to the Google Play Store, and device manufacturers would take this category seriously; there could be a lot of reasons not to buy that new ASUS ROG Ally.

My setup can be considered the peak, though, so it's not cheap. The Lenovo Legion Tab (Gen 3) is $549.99 at Lenovo, which is a very fair price for such a capable tablet, while the Razer Kishi V3 Pro runs for $149.99 at Amazon, on the pricier side for a mobile controller.

This isn't the only way to make a gaming handheld of your own, though. Any smartphone or mini tablet would do, and there are plenty of great (and more affordable) mobile controllers.

The mobile gaming landscape has evolved by leaps and bounds the last few years, and mobile controllers are just one part of it.

Cloud gaming, full ports of native PC and console games, emulation — gaming on your phone or tablet has never been better. The brand-new Razer Kishi V3 Pro is for those who want to get the most out of that experience, and it's truly the ultimate mobile gaming controller.

I've been using this accessory with the Lenovo Legion Tab (Gen 3) I reviewed for a few weeks now, and it's clear Razer is serious about competing in this space. When it comes to ergonomics, performance, and features, the Kishi V3 Pro is one of the best you can buy.

It helps that there's a more affordable non-Pro version with many of the same benefits, and a new XL version for those who want to game on their full-sized iPad or Android tablet.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Razer. Razer had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

Kishi V3 Pro review: Cheat sheet

• What is it? A premium mobile gaming controller for iOS and Android smartphones and tablets.
• Who is it for? Those who want the absolute best mobile gaming experience with a full-sized controller.
• How much does it cost? The Razer Kishi V3 Pro is available for $149.99 at Razer. The Kishi V3 Pro XL for large tablets is $199.99 at Razer.
• What did I like? The excellent full-sized, ergonomic design, the reliable and responsive controls, the awesome Razer Nexus app.
• What did I not like? The large size, the regular Kishi V3 offering so much of the same experience for less.

Kishi V3 Pro review: Pricing and specifications

I'm reviewing the Razer Kishi V3 Pro, but there are actually three separate mobile controllers in this family.

The entry-level Kishi V3 retains the same design and controls, but loses features like the Sensa HD haptics, extra bumper buttons, and swappable thumbsticks. The Razer Kishi V3 retails for $99.99 at Razer, and is compatible with the same devices as the Kishi V3 Pro.

The Razer Kishi V3 Pro retails for $149.99 at Razer, and is the best option for those who want the ultimate mobile gaming experience with their smartphone or small tablet.

Finally, there's the Kishi V3 Pro XL, which is identical to the non-XL variant feature-wise, but is upscaled to support 10 to 13-inch iPad and Android tablets. The Razer Kishi V3 Pro XL retails for $199.99 at Razer.

In the box, you'll find the Razer Kishi V3 Pro mobile gaming controller, two sets of rubber bumpers for adjusting the controller to your device size, and two swappable thumbsticks (one tall concave and one short convex).

For those with iPhones and iPads, the Kishi V3 Pro also comes with 3 months of Apple Arcade, while the Kishi V3 Pro XL comes with 6 months. That particular perk doesn't apply to me, but you might find it valuable.

• Back to the top ⤴

Kishi V3 Pro review: What I like

In our Razer Kishi Ultra review, our own Jez Corden described it as an "opulent mobile gaming controller with a premium price tag." The Kishi V3 line is built on that same foundation, but Razer smartly expanded into budget and niche categories.

On the surface, the Kishi V3 Pro is nearly identical to the Kishi Ultra, and that means effectively splitting the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro we reviewed (and hailed as one of the best Xbox controllers ever) in two and giving you space to slot your phone or tablet.

Of course, that same design applies to all Kishi V3 controllers — full-sized grips, thumbsticks, and triggers that provide a true console-like experience wherever you happen to be gaming. In terms of ergonomics, the Kishi V3 Pro is leagues ahead of the average mobile controller.

That mentality extends to performance, as well; in fact, the Kishi V3 line is even more advanced than the premium Wolverine V3 Pro in some ways. On top of the mecha-tactile buttons (Razer's unique blend of mechanical and tactile switches) and remappable rear buttons using Razer's class-leading mouse switches, you also get Hall Effect triggers and cutting-edge Tunneling Magnetoresistance (TMR) thumbsticks.

What does that mean? Best-in-class precision, responsiveness, and reliability. The Kishi V3 line's Hall Effect triggers are fully customizable, and the TMR thumbsticks are essentially immune to dread stick drift.

The original Razer Kishi V2 we reviewed had its merits, but ultimately felt confined to a box: a controller designed for phones. By comparison, the Kishi V3 Pro and its siblings offers a genuinely brilliant gaming experience, to the point that being able to plug it into a PC and use it like a normal controller makes complete sense.

The Kishi V3 Pro is incredibly comfortable to hold, and the tactility and consistency of each button is excellent. The addition of four additional, remappable buttons (or two for the regular Kishi V3) only adds to the experience. I genuinely believe there's no other mobile controller that can fully compare.

If you're wondering what the extra $50 nets you when upgrading from the regular Razer Kishi V3 to the Kishi V3 Pro, it basically comes down to: two extra buttons (the "claw grip" bumper buttons) and the surprisingly good Razer Sensa HD haptics (which can even automatically convert audio to haptics).

The secret killer feature of the Razer Kishi V3 Pro and its siblings, though, has nothing to do with hardware. Yeah, the Razer Nexus app has really come a long way.

Razer Nexus is a free iOS/iPadOS and Android app that anyone can install to streamline their mobile gaming experience, and that ostensibly plays nice with any mobile controller, but unsurprisingly only reaches its full potential when paired with a Razer Kishi.

In some ways, Razer Nexus is still a basic app, but it's filled with features that make mobile controllers like the Kishi V3 Pro even better. It's a launcher to quickly access all your favorite games and services, sure, but it also lets you enable the audio-to-haptics feature for everything you want to play, remap your controls, and more.

More includes features like the Virtual Controller Mode and PC Remote Play. The former lets you map any physical Kishi control to the touch-only controls of any game — and it's by far the best implementation I've seen of such a feature, making games that don't normally play nice with mobile controllers (like Call of Duty Mobile and Pokémon Unite) feel completely natural with the Kishi V3 Pro.

The latter is a more recent addition, and lets you use the power of your gaming PC to stream any game to your mobile device. Razer's version of this feature can optimize your PC games for your device's screen, though, and it's shockingly good with the Kishi controllers.

The Razer Kishi V3 Pro is excellent, and the (completely free, subscription-less) Nexus app makes it even better.

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Kishi V3 Pro review: What I don't like

I'll avoid any misunderstandings and state first and foremost: I firmly believe the Razer Kishi V3 Pro (and its siblings) is the best mobile gaming controller you can buy right now. Of course... that doesn't mean it's perfect.

Most obviously, the Kishi V3 Pro's greatest strength is also a compromise. All the ergonomics and features of a full-sized controller also makes the Kishi V3 Pro undeniably large — and that makes it a poor choice for those who want a mobile controller they can truly carry with them everywhere.

The Kishi V3 Pro also isn't a complete upgrade over the Kishi Ultra; for some reason, Razer removed the RGB lighting strips. Most people won't care, but I can't review this controller without mentioning that.

If you want an actual criticism, the Kishi V3 Pro is prone to the same issue as the Kishi Ultra, in that it occasionally doesn't want to reconnect after an extended standby time. It's a minor complaint reserved for users like myself, who has a dedicated device just for mobile gaming, but it's worth mentioning.

Finally, and specific to the Kishi V3 Pro... most people don't need the two additional buttons and dedicated haptics that separate the Kishi V3 Pro from the more affordable Kishi V3.

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Kishi V3 Pro review: Also consider

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Kishi V3 Pro review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want a true console-like controller experience on mobile.
• You want a reliable controller that'll survive years of gaming.
• You find value in the Razer Nexus app and its added features.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You want something as compact as possible for travel.
• You definitely don't want to spend $100+ on a mobile controller.

I've been using the Razer Kishi V3 Pro with the Lenovo Legion Tab (Gen 3), an 8.8-inch Android tablet designed with gaming in mind. The experience has been phenomenal, and I've found myself picking up this combination more often than even my ASUS ROG Ally X.

The simple fact is that mobile gaming does offer some distinct advantages in versatility and efficiency, and the Kishi V3 Pro absolves many of the compromises in ergonomics and controller performance.

To summarize in a different fashion, the Kishi V3 line of mobile controllers brings out the very best of gaming from your phone or tablet, whether you're playing a native title, streaming from the cloud or your PC, or emulating classic consoles.

The Razer Kishi V3 Pro is available now for $149.99 at Razer, and it's clearly the monarch of the family — while I haven't personally used it, though, the Kishi V3 (at $99.99 at Razer) does seem like the obvious choice for many people, given its tasteful compromises.

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Love or hate the way Apple designs products, iPad continues to be one of the best and most consistent tablet brands, with the iPad Mini reigning as champion of tiny tablets.

Small tablets are a niche category within a niche category, but they can still be amazing companion devices — especially for mobile and cloud gaming. That's where Lenovo comes in with the Legion Tab (Gen 3), an 8.8-inch Android-powered tablet that fulfils my every wish.

It's slim and lightweight, powerful and packed with gaming-focused features, and is the perfect size for the best mobile controllers. This is easily the best iPad Mini alternative on the Android side of the fence, and it's one of the funnest devices I've reviewed in a long time.

You have to know what you want to shell out over $500 for a secondary device, and there's no "Lite" version of the Legion Tab for those who don't need so much power, but the Lenovo Legion Tab (Gen 3) is amazing for those who can make use of it.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Lenovo. Lenovo had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

Legion Tab G3 review: Cheat sheet

• What is it? A small, premium 8.8-inch Android tablet designed with mobile and cloud gaming in mind.
• Who is it for? Those who want a capable, powerful, and miniature tablet companion, especially if they plan to game.
• How much does it cost? The Lenovo Legion Tab (Gen 3) retails for $549.99 at Lenovo. You can also get it for $549.99 at Walmart.
• What did I like? The premium design, the vibrant and fast display, the consistent performance and battery life, and the Android ecosystem.
• What did I not like? The lack of storage expansion opportunities, the lack of a fingerprint sensor, and the minor display ghosting.

Legion Tab G3 review: Pricing and specifications

The Lenovo Legion Tab (Gen 3) is a premium Android tablet and is available in exactly one configuration and one color.

You can buy the Lenovo Legion Tab (Gen 3) for $549.99 at Lenovo, which is actually $50 more than the device's original retail price (likely due to tariffs). You can also get this tablet for $549.99 at Walmart.

No matter where you go, you'll be getting the same grey chassis and the same internal specifications.

In the box, you'll find the Lenovo Legion Tab (Gen 3) tablet, a 68W USB Type-C fast charger, a USB Type-C 2.0 to USB Type-C 2.0 charging cable, a folio case, and a film screen protector.

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Legion Tab G3 review: What I like

The Legion Tab definitely fits the bill of "small tablet." It's a little wider, thicker, and heavier than the iPad Mini, but is close enough on all accounts that you probably wouldn't know unless you were comparing them side-by-side.

Build quality-wise, the Legion Tab also feels just as premium, with a slick aluminum design and thin bezels around the vibrant display. At 350g and less than 8mm thick, it's easy to hold the Legion Tab in one hand, and it's compact enough to fit in most mobile controllers, like the Razer Kishi Ultra I used (and we reviewed).

I like that Lenovo includes a simple folio case and film screen protector in the box, too, so you can protect your Legion Tab without additional purchases. Unlike a lot of other modern tech, you also get a charger in the box — and Lenovo included a compact, 68W Type-C charger for good measure.

Honestly, there's a lot of good stuff here. The dual speakers on either side support Dolby Atmos spatial audio, and sound loud, clear, and detailed. You also get dual-axis haptics for system navigation and supported games.

Lenovo even included two USB Type-C ports — one in the normal spot for charging, and a second on the bottom of the tablet (when held horizontally) for charging, data, display and audio output, and docking.

Back around the front, and you'll find that 8.8-inch IPS LCD display. Being a Lenovo Legion product, that display boasts a crips QHD+ resolution with a 165Hz refresh rate.

While not as punchy or responsive as an OLED display, this screen is vibrant, color accurate, and consistent from edge to edge, with minimal backlight bleeding and respectable brightness.

Movies, videos, games, and everything in between look great on this panel, and performance is excellent for gaming as well. You get Dolby Vision HDR support, a High Brightness Mode (HBM), and even stylus input, too.

You'll interact with Lenovo's "ZUI" version of Android 15 (originally Android 14), and I was surprised by how much I liked this interface. It's clean, snappy, and stable, and you'll find a modest number of additions and gaming-focused features that avoid feeling like bloat.

There's an automatic Game Assistant for managing notifications and performance when launching a game, the Legion Space launcher (which pulls double duty for managing your device features), and a handful of other features, like an optional, desktop-like PC Mode for when you want to connect a mouse and keyboard.

On the inside, you'll find the capable Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 mobile platform that powered most of 2024's Android flagship smartphones. It's not the most powerful on the block anymore, but this chipset is still incredibly capable, and it's supported by 12GB of fast RAM and 256GB of very fast storage.

Despite how slim this tablet is, it stays cool and runs smoothly even after long gaming sessions, thanks to a vapor cooling chamber. Xbox Cloud Gaming, Call of Duty Mobile, Zenless Zone Zero — none of it could bring this tablet to its knees.

This is no ASUS ROG Ally, of course, but the Legion Tab boasts more than enough power to be a competent and trustworthy companion for cloud gaming, emulation, and playing the growing number of high-quality titles available on Android.

Battery life is excellent, too. The 6,550mAh battery isn't the absolute largest, but the efficient chipset and Lenovo's optimizations mean you can easily game for hours without worrying too much about where the closest outlet is.

If you do need to charge the Legion Tab, the included 68W charger is incredibly fast at getting you back in the game.

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Legion Tab G3 review: What I don't like

I love the Lenovo Legion Tab, but it's not perfect. While there is stylus input, for example, it's obviously an afterthought (hence no pen in the box). The iPad Mini, with its superior Apple Pencil and dedicated magnetic connector and charger, is the better small tablet for notetaking and drawing.

You'll also find an 8MP front-facing camera (oddly oriented for portrait use) and a 13MP rear-facing camera (joined by a completely useless 2MP macro lens), but they're aggressively average in quality.

Honestly, I'd love to see a Legion Tab Lite that keeps the same design and dimensions, drops the stylus input and all cameras, lowers the screen to 1200p and 120Hz, and downgrades to a Snapdragon 7-series chipset. For ~$300, that'd be an awesome device for cloud gaming.

Back to the Legion Tab that we actually do have, there's sadly no way to expand the 256GB of storage. Lenovo doesn't offer storage upgrades, and you won't find a microSD card slot anywhere.

There's also no fingerprint sensor for biometric authentication, which is a real shame. The front-facing camera does support facial recognition, but to call it insecure would be an understatement.

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Legion Tab G3 review: Also consider

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Legion Tab G3 review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want a premium, compact Android tablet with a great screen.
• You want a portable device for mobile and cloud gaming.
• You want the largest display possible with mobile controllers.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You're mostly looking to draw or take notes.
• You won't take advantage of this performance for gaming.

The Lenovo Legion Tab excels as a gaming companion, but it's also a pro at being the ultimate entertainment device, a casual notetaking tablet, or even a gaming handheld if you pair it with the right mobile controller.

If you need a great, compact tablet but also want something more premium than the droves of budget Android options, the Legion Tab is one of the only compelling alternatives to the unstoppable iPad Mini... And I personally prefer it.

It's lightweight and portable, with a fast and vibrant display, phenomenal gaming performance, and a battery you can trust. Android also gives you access to a respectable library of games from the Google Play Store, emulation platforms, and cloud and remote gaming services.

PC gaming handhelds can be awesome, but the Legion Tab is something else entirely, and I love it. You can buy the Lenovo Legion Tab (Gen 3) for $549.99 at Lenovo, if you think this is the right companion device for you.

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The competition for the best mobile gaming controllers is fierce, with many companies scrambling to produce all kinds of controllers in hopes of grabbing the gaming community's attention.

One of these controllers that's making a splash in the market is the GameSir G8 Galileo. This device can transform your mobile phone into a powerful gaming handheld with comfy grips and precise controls, without the need to be recharged while in use.

The GameSir G8 Galileo's MSRP normally goes for $109.99 at most retailers, but Amazon is selling it for a big 27% discount, taking it down to a more affordable price tag of $79.99.

Why should you buy the GameSir G8 Galileo?

The GameSir G8 Galileo has a ton of cool features going for it that helped it rank amongst the best mobile controllers for Xbox Cloud Gaming.

For starters, it has a solid build that's lightweight, easy to use, and comfy to handle.

It also includes powerful Hall Effect analog sticks (whose thumbsticks are replaceable) and triggers. These Hall Effects parts are more durable than regular sticks and triggers, and they use magnetic technology to increase the accuracy of the player's inputs so they can perform actions better in-game.

Combine this trait with a superb D-pad, face buttons, and two extra buttons, and you have yourself a mighty mobile controller that will help you enjoy popular Xbox Game Pass titles like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 better than ever.

Another standout feature is the GameSir G8 Galileo's USB-C connector, which is easy to plug your mobile device into without damaging its USB-C port. What's more is that the Galileo is powered directly by the mobile device it's hooked up to, so there's no need to recharge it, unlike Bluetooth mobile controllers.

However, due to the GameSir G8 Galileo's large shape, it can be cumbersome to store while travelling compared to other mobile controllers like the Turtle Beach Atom (which is also on sale for half-price at Walmart at the time of this writing), for example.

If you can get over that little drawback, the GameSir G8 Galileo is a must-buy for Xbox players who enjoy playing mobile games and the best Xbox titles on the go via Xbox Cloud Gaming.

The GameSir G8 Galileo is currently on sale for $79.99 at Amazon, after having its MSRP of $109.99 cut down by 27% so now's a good time as any to grab one.

With the rise of mobile gaming and Xbox Cloud Gaming, companies across the globe are scrambling to produce high-quality third-party controllers to help players transform their mobile devices into full-blown gaming handhelds.

One such product is the Razer Kishi V2, a Mobile Gaming Controller that's regarded as one of the best in the business for its exceptional ergonomics and controls.

The Razer Kishi V2 normally runs for a high MSRP of $99.99, but it's currently being blessed with a big 50% discount, taking its price tag down to a more generous $49.99 on Amazon.

Why buy the Razer Kishi V2?

Razer has produced several top-notch, Xbox-compatible gaming accessories over the years, and the Razer Kishi V2 is no exception. Our Executive Editor, Jez Corden, even gave the Razer Kishi V2 a 4.5/5 Star Review back in 2022, stating that it is "the best way to experience Android gaming on the go right now, whether it's native games, Xbox Cloud Gaming with Xbox Game Pass, or another similar service."

While it may be outclassed these days by its modern successor, the Razer Kishi Ultra, the Razer Kishi V2 still has plenty of amazing features that help it stand out as one of the best Xbox Cloud Gaming controllers.

For example, the Razer Kishi V2 has an extendable bridge that splits the device over two panels and attaches to a mobile via USB-C connectors. This essentially converts your phone into a gaming handheld with a control scheme layout and controller handles that are almost identical to the Steam Deck, Nintendo Switch, or Nintendo Switch 2.

The controls of the Razer Kishi V2 feel good to use and can detect player inputs extremely accurately. It has USB-C pass-through power to allow users to charge up the phone without removing the controller. Plus, it has a lightweight and sleek design with ergonomically friendly grips, so it feels nice to hold without weighing down your hands.

The Razer Kishi V2 also has a couple of bonus features, like a "Nexus" button which launches a built-in app that lets you organize games and cloud apps on your phone, and dedicated screenshot and record buttons.

The only drawbacks of this mobile gaming controller you need to be aware of are that its lightweight design may be unwieldy for users with larger hands, and its relatively high MSRP of $99.99.

Thankfully, the latter problem has been solved by Amazon, which is currently selling the Razer Kishi V2 at a huge 50% discount for $49.99. So, if you're looking for a high-quality mobile gaming controller to play the best Xbox games via Xbox Cloud Gaming or popular mobile games like Genshin Impact or Zenless Zone Zero, then this discounted Razer Kishi V2 is for you.

I love the Logitech G Cloud for Xbox Cloud Gaming, but as noted in our Logitech G Cloud review, it's difficult to genuinely recommend it to people because of its too-high price point for a primarily cloud-gaming device.

However, a new competitor has entered the chat, or rather has entered Kickstarter — the abxylute One Pro.

The abxylute One Pro is currently advertised at $199 for early backers of its crowdfunding project and is self-touted to be a 'next generation' handheld console.

The abxylute One Pro is one to watch for Xbox Cloud Gaming

When I saw the device, I thought it was like the Steam Deck Smoky Translucent limited edition and the Logitech G Cloud had a baby. The design is stunning, and it will weigh a tiny 430g (for reference, Logitech is 463g, so this will be even lighter).

Mostly, though, I think the early bird price of $199 is a bargain for a device you'll be able to cloud-game on. Using the abxylute One Pro, you'll have access to Xbox Cloud Gaming, Nvidia GeForce Now, Boosteroid, Steam Link, and more.

Here's the full specs as advertised on the Kickstarter.

Ubisoft's upcoming Japanese role-playing adventure Assassin's Creed Shadows will support Xbox Cloud Gaming at launch through Microsoft's "Stream Your Own Game" feature.

That update comes via the official Xbox Bluesky account, which shared the news on Friday.

Through Stream Your Own Game, players that buy a game on Xbox and subscribe to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate can then stream that game through the cloud, making it playable without having it locally installed on a console.

After promising to implement a version of the feature for years, Microsoft finally began rolling out support for streaming games players already own last year, with an initial wave of 50 titles that included Baldur's Gate 3 and Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2.

Recent additions have seen the library grow, adding games like Cult of the Lamb, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, and Subnautica.

Right now, streaming your own game through Xbox Cloud Gaming is available through Amazon Fire TV sticks, Meta Quest VR headset, web browsers (via Xbox.com/play) and Samsung Smart TVs.

Microsoft currently plans to bring support to Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and the Xbox PC app at some point later in 2025.

A stronger push for Xbox platform features

While it won't be my preferred way to play Assassin's Creed Shadows, providing this as an option is still really cool.

This comes just after Konami's Silent Hill f got a reveal trailer, with the store page seeming to indicate the game will support Xbox Play Anywhere. Earlier the same day, we learned that over 1,000 games now feature Xbox Play Anywhere support.

It certainly appears to me that Microsoft is continuing to push for increased developer and publisher adoption of these features, emphasizing the benefits of providing Xbox Play Anywhere and Xbox Cloud Gaming support.

Hopefully we'll see more and more games from big publishers support Stream Your Own Game and Xbox Play Anywhere in the months ahead.

As for Ubisoft, a lot is riding on the arrival of Assassin's Creed Shadows, which has been delayed twice. It also comes at a time when Ubisoft has canceled or delayed numerous games while shuttering multiple development studios.

Ubisoft's founders are reportedly seeking a deal with investors (including Tencent) to found a new holding company with some of Ubisoft's IP and assets.

Assassin's Creed Shadows is slated to launch on March 20, 2025 across Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC (via Steam and Ubisoft Connect), PlayStation 5, Amazon Luna, and MacOS.

Xbox is expanding its Xbox Cloud Gaming feature set with a new update. Players can now send links to invite other players to directly join a multiplayer game via Cloud, as shared via Xbox Wire on Tuesday.

I quickly tested this feature using Age of Mythology: Retold, verifying that it's already live. In order to use it, players just need to be playing some kind of multiplayer game through Xbox Cloud Gaming. From there, open the Xbox tab, navigate to game invites, then select Anyone. Copy the link and share it with whoever you want to play with.

Naturally, whoever is joining you will need to have an Xbox account, and will also have to be subscribed to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. This feature is currently live on web browsers (via Xbox.com/play) and Samsung Smart TVs.

More games to stream and play if you already own them

The Xbox team rolled out initial support for its long-awaited "Stream Your Own Game" feature last year, starting with 50 games that included titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2.

An update earlier this year brought more games like Subnautica, and now, there's another batch of games on the way. This latest wave includes Massive Monster and Devolver Digital's 2022 indie hit, Cult of the Lamb.

You can find the list of games that are now coming soon to Xbox Cloud Gaming below:

• Atomic Heart
• Cult of the Lamb
• Hotline Miami
• Killer Frequency
• Neva
• Overcooked! All You Can Eat
• Phanton Breaker: Battle Grounds Ultimate
• Serious Sam Collection
• Trepang2
• Worms Armageddon: Anniversary Edition

Xbox Cloud Gaming is growing again

While Xbox Cloud Gaming stalled out for years as Microsoft was fighting in courts to purchase Activision Blizzard King, things have been moving again over the last few months.

The semi-frequent updates to the list of games that can be streamed are encouraging to see, especially when combined with the massive list of Xbox first-party games that support Cloud gaming, such as Obsidian Entertainment's recent role-playing game Avowed.

Most upcoming Xbox games will also support Cloud gaming on day one, including id Software's DOOM: The Dark Ages.

I still prefer playing games natively on my Xbox Series X or my PC, but having options is great.

As a side note, I've seen some player chatter around Balatro being removed from the list of games players can stream if they own them. I'm fairly certain this is just a design presentation oversight, since Balatro just joined Xbox Game Pass, but I'm asking Microsoft for clarification.

Avowed launched in early access yesterday to generally positive reception. The latest RPG from Obsidian, known for games like Fallout New Vegas and Pillars of Eternity, launched exclusively on Xbox and Steam with a premium early access period — because it's 2025. Avowed's early access will set you back an additional $23 ahead of its Xbox Game Pass general launch next week, giving Microsoft an additional revenue stream to make up for cannibalized sales from its Netflix-like gaming subscription service. But what if you're someone who wanted to pay for early access and enjoy the benefits of your pricey Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription? To you, Microsoft is unfortunately saying "no thanks."

Avowed is an action RPG in a first-person perspective, set in the Pillars of Eternity universe. It sports Obsidian's typical gameplay stylings, including choice and consequence via a branching story narrative, player expression with playstyle choices, in a large and satisfyingly-explorable world. The game should be an idea Xbox Cloud Gaming partner, given its gameplay format, but Microsoft seems to disagree.

Indeed, yesterday I began receiving messages from users on X (Twitter) asking when Avowed early access would go live on Xbox Cloud Gaming. Inexplicably, it seems that Avowed simply isn't planned to go live on Xbox Cloud Gaming until next week, even if you own the premium access version.

RELATED: 7 things I wish I knew before playing Avowed

Microsoft might have some kind of business-y type explanation for as to why that is, but, it would get blown to smithereens when you consider the early access period is available on rival cloud service NVIDIA GeForce Now.

Now, I'm not suggesting there's some kind of nefarious reason as to why Microsoft decided to support NVIDIA GeForce Now over Xbox Cloud Gaming for Avowed. I am suggesting that the oversight is an irritating and sadly typical inconsistency that Microsoft's gaming services often run on. This is why Microsoft's "This is an Xbox" campaign was so frustrating to watch play out, as the marketing campaign aimed to showcase things like Xbox Play Anywhere and Xbox Cloud Gaming, neither of which I would described as being "fully baked."

Microsoft recently added the ability to play "buy to own" games on Xbox Cloud Gaming, which would surely have been the right avenue to light up Avowed on the platform. The system does support DLC entitlements for deluxe edition features and the like, so it's hard for me to envision that this is due to some kind of technical issue. Some have suggested that it could be due to regulatory issues, with the UK CMA having previously forced Microsoft to give up rights to Activision Blizzard's cloud games to Ubisoft. However, I'm unaware of Obsidian titles being covered in any such ruling, although I am investigating as of writing.

We've reached out to Microsoft to ask why Avowed's advanced access period includes NVIDIA GeForce Now, but doesn't include Xbox Cloud Gaming, and to inquire what Microsoft's policies are for the increased amount of games with "advanced access" premium passes when it comes to cloud gaming.

Microsoft has all the parts in play to really create something truly special across its platforms. The ability to buy Avowed on multiple platforms, take my save files anywhere, and play on almost any device is a definite glimpse of a potent Xbox gaming future — but nailing these details should be at the forefront of Microsoft's mind in my view.

RELATED: Predicting the actually exciting future of Xbox hardware

I think it's very poor form to treat your most loyal customers this way, ones who not only have paid for early access but also Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, only to ultimately not deliver. Microsoft definitely needs to better here, in my view.

In any case, we'll let you know what Microsoft plans to do to fix this situation, if anything, as soon as possible.

In the latest earnings call with investors, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella stated the company "continued to see strong momentum for Xbox Cloud Gaming" and reported 140 million hours streamed this past quarter. The record-breaking number of hours spent streaming games via the cloud service came even as the Xbox division reported a 7% revenue decline.

Microsoft typically keeps player counts, subscriber numbers, and other details about player engagement close its chest. Quarterly earnings calls with investors are one of the few ways the public gets to see how Xbox is doing behind the curtain.

Microsoft's $70B gamble on Activision is paying off

Xbox Cloud Gaming services are still in a Beta state, and can only be accessed by players who subscribe to the Ultimate tier of the Xbox Game Pass service. The high number of player hours for Cloud Gaming coincides with another achievement for Xbox this quarter: a 30% increase in subscribers to PC Game Pass.

So what's brought on all of this growth in cloud gaming and PC game pass? The culprit is most likely the launch of Treyarch's much-anticipated Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, which launched into the Game Pass service in November. "Black Ops 6 was the top-selling game on Xbox and PlayStation this quarter and saw more players in its launch quarter than any other paid release in the franchise's history," Nadella told investors.

Call of Duty's inclusion in the Xbox Game Pass subscription service at launch opened it up to subscribers of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate as a streamable title for the first time. This served as a low-risk way for players who had previously left the franchise or just now trying it for the first time. Players no longer needed high-end gaming PCs, flagship smartphones, or a current-gen console to try out a few matches of Black Ops 6 or the free-to-play battle royale tie-in, Call of Duty: Warzone. Likewise, it was easier than ever to convince your friends to join if they were also Xbox Game Pass subscribers.

That's not to say that Call of Duty is exclusively the savior of Cloud Gaming and Game Pass, however. Other titles from the ABK catalog, including Spyro Reignited Trilogy and Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy, have also bolstered the service and become available to cloud streaming audiences for the first time.

Cloud Gaming and the "This is an Xbox" campaign

While Cloud Gaming and PC Game Pass numbers were impressive, Xbox's overall revenue dropped 7% year over year. Xbox hardware, in particular, dropped 29%. Xbox head Phil Spencer began ringing the alarm about declining interest in console hardware before Xbox acquired Activision Blizzard King. Spencer even went so far as to stress the importance of mobile gaming access during the FTC vs Xbox hearings, stating inside that the deal was just as much about Candy Crush as COD.

Many of Xbox's strategies in the last couple of years have mirrored that reality, including the development of an Xbox handheld gaming device and the recent "This is an Xbox" marketing campaign. While the campaign drew the ire of those in the Xbox community who prioritize hardware, it seems to have been the most successful part of Microsoft's growth strategy for the brand this past quarter.

Call of Duty only launches annually, so it can not be relied on to maintain growth in Cloud gaming and Game Pass every quarter. The other half of the Xbox strategy seems to be relying on propping up those services with high-quality AAA titles like the recently released Indiana Jones and the Great Circle or the upcoming Avowed and South of Midnight.

HP actually makes some of the best value gaming monitors you can buy, with one earning one of my highest ratings for a display in 2024. Now, during CES 2025, a lot of the HP OMEN gaming monitor lineup is getting refreshed, and a new model is joining the family. The "G2" update brings higher refresh rates and deeper contrast ratios, but those who want a smarter display will have another option.

In total, five monitors have been announced for release in the near future, spread across a wide range of prices and features. Whether you're looking for a value-driven 1080p monitor with great performance or a curved ultrawide display with some serious visual chops, the latest HP OMEN lineup may have the monitor for you. I, for one, am most excited about the upgraded HP OMEN 27qs G2, which could make one of the best mid-range gaming monitors even better.

Five new OMEN monitors to suit every need

I'll just go in alphabetical order. First, we have the most affordable monitor in the new lineup, the HP OMEN 27 G2, which is a 27-inch FHD (1080p) IPS LCD display. This time around, the refresh rate has been increased to a maximum 180Hz with a 1ms grey-to-grey response time, and you're still getting niceties like VESA DisplayHDR 400 support, AMD FreeSync support, and factory color calibration to 99% of the sRGB color gamut. Next is the HP OMEN 27q G2, which is entirely identical to the regular 27-inch HP OMEN gaming monitor but with an increased QHD (1440p) resolution.

My personal favorite of the bunch is the HP OMEN 27qs G2, which replaces the excellent HP OMEN 27qs I reviewed and still regularly recommend. This is still a 27-inch QHD (1440p) display with a slightly more premium design and some rear-facing RGB lighting, but HP updated the panel with IPS LCD Black technology, which practically doubles the contrast ratios to around 2,000:1. You're also getting a refresh rate bump, up to 280Hz from 240Hz last year. NVIDIA G-Sync support, integrated speakers, and some additional USB ports join the feature list from the previous two models.

Next is the HP OMEN 32x, one of the more interesting additions to the OMEN family in recent memory. This isn't a traditional gaming monitor — it's a smart display with Google TV built-in, designed with game streaming, like Xbox Cloud Gaming, in mind. This is a 32-inch, 4K IPS LCD panel with a 144Hz refresh rate and a more TV-like experience, including a quad-speaker system, Dolby Vision HDR support, and added features like screen mirroring and built-in Ethernet (for the Google TV OS).

Finally, we have the HP OMEN 34c G2, the refreshed version of the HP OMEN 34c that my colleague reviewed and gave good marks to. You're looking at a familiar 34-inch VA display with a 1500R curve and a widescreen 21:9 aspect ratio, with the same WQHD (1440p) resolution as last year. This time around, though, the refresh rate has been bumped to 180Hz, and the contrast ratio is a very impressive 4,000:1. You still don't get any USB ports, though, and it's not clear if the built-in speakers have been improved at all.

In the wee hours of the morning on December 28, Xbox announced that a fix for the issues affecting Xbox Cloud Gaming and other web services, including Remote Play, has now been deployed. Players who were experiencing inaccurate load times or were unable to launch games should now be able to access titles via the cloud as intended.

Some replies to Xbox's announcement declared ongoing issues with long launch times, though this could likely continue as a result of increased demand during the holiday season. Microsoft did not issue a formal announcement as to the direct cause of the issue, nor did it address the reasons behind the initial delay of the fix.

Original story: Xbox Cloud Gaming and associated web services have been hit with outages in some areas, but support teams are currently working to address the issues.

An outage was initially reported via official Xbox communication channels on December 26. Players have reported that Xbox Cloud Games are not starting up or are unexpectedly disconnecting after games start. According to Xbox's Status page, a fix for the outage was recently pending, but deploying the fix took "longer than anticipated." As of the time of writing, players were still encountering issues with Xbox Cloud Gaming and Remote Play services.

The official Xbox Support social media accounts recently shared that some players were seeing incorrectly high wait times when launching cloud games. Support teams reported that the games were expected to launch faster than the display listed.

Not all territories with access to the Xbox Cloud Gaming and Remote Play services were seeing limited functionality during this outage. However, Xbox has not outright specified which regions are adversely affected. Windows Central's own Jez Corden, for example, has said that the service is working in his region. However, one user on social media reported a wait time of 175 minutes when trying to access Fortnite via Cloud Gaming. Others were reporting wait times of 220-255 minutes. For some, long wait times only came to an end with the crushing defeat of a disconnect, leaving them no choice but to attempt to launch and face long wait times once again.

While Xbox has not addressed the reason behind the service outage, the long queue lines are partnered with a message that "Lots of people are playing!" indicating the servers for Xbox Cloud Gaming could be taking a hit due to the holiday demand. Microsoft kicked off its "This is an Xbox" marketing campaign to highlight cloud gaming on a greater variety of devices outside of just consoles right before the holiday shopping season. With more players signing in to Xbox Cloud Gaming via Game Pass on fresh new devices acquired during the holiday gift-giving season, there's more strain on the banks of consoles that are powering the service in data centers.

The atmosphere of Xbox is looking quite different with every passing year. Three years ago, we were all freaking out over Starfield becoming exclusive. Two years ago, fans wanted the largest acquisition in all gaming to be passed so they could enjoy Activision and Blizzard titles on Game Pass. This year, Microsoft says that it wants to redefine Xbox fans as they're being told an Xbox is no longer the only Xbox.

"This is an Xbox" campaign launched last month, and it destabilized the status quo. The new advertisement launch put a referendum on gamers on what an Xbox truly was. For years, an Xbox has been an Xbox, right? Today, that means either the monolithic Xbox Series X or the cutesy Xbox Series S. Now, it seems to be anything with a TV screen and internet connection.

What are the experts saying about the campaign?

Deadly Headley, YouTuber, Podcaster, and all-around incredible human being, recently dove into the "This is an Xbox" campaign, embedded below.

"There's a lot of fear, uncertainty, and doubt circling Xbox's new ad campaign. And I can understand why; It's extremely disruptive. But guess what? That's the point."

Headley dives right in, warning fans that this campaign wasn't conceived to coddle the likes of you or even me; it's designed to reach a target demographic that doesn't understand the idea of app exclusivity. It's targeting the phablet kids that are coming up behind us. An entire generation has grown up on tablets and cell phones with the power, as of today, to push graphical limits that would have my TI-83 batteries exploding. Furthermore, all of those mobile platforms are entirely device agnostic. The hardware is incidental, and that's ultimately what Xbox is trying to get across with this messaging stream.

As he points out, generation after generation, Xbox hardware has continued to see a decline in sales. Year-over-year even. As a result, Microsoft faces the dilemma of what to do with $82 billion dollars in its last two acquisitions. How do you get the games into the hands of players without a console?

"No console required" is an invitation to those without access to the console itself. As Headley puts it, "Microsoft's pivot into the cloud gaming space and its controversial "no console required" initiative was the tech giant's attempt at removing a significant barrier of entry (the upfront cost of console hardware) by leveraging cloud gaming technology and a massive library of titles on Xbox Game Pass."

It really is a no-brainer when you think about the picture at large. The problem, and many of us already recognize it, is that Microsoft is trying to take a photograph without having yet invented the camera. Only some devices support certain games; you can't play the titles you own everywhere yet (although we're getting there), and you can't even purchase games on the Xbox mobile app.

The problem and solution

That's where Deadly dives in as well, "It's not possible to download games to every device or buy games on every device. It's not possible to play Xbox games on every smart TV without the assistance of some additional hardware like a Fire TV Stick. Even then, the Xbox app is only available on specific Fire Stick models. And then there's the common complaint about the Xbox experience on PC not being up to scratch."

Then there's another problem: What about people who don't even know what Game Pass is? To us gamers, that sounds hysterical, but Headley mentions that his own coworkers don't even know what Game Pass is. He defines this mythological service as one that grants instant access to hundreds of games across multiple devices. To which he gets a resounding, "What?" I'm sure many of you reading this have similar stories too.

This is where the advertisement "This is an Xbox" comes into play. It's there to demonstrate what and how the ecosystem works. It's a catchy, flashy wave of the hand that propositions users to walk the platform and see what it has to offer. Even down to a cute quiz on the website that exhibits what an Xbox is.

Headley ultimately makes the point that the advertisement is deliberately vague, designed to create a "curiosity gap," and send users on a journey to figure out exactly how their phone is an Xbox. It's a bold strategy, but it potentially comes at the price of convincing gamers who have a preconceived idea about what Xbox is that Xbox as we know it is ultimately going away... what if they don't want the new thing?

The ramblings of a boomer (me)

In a perfect world, we'd all understand that this is the direction Xbox is looking to take, but we don't do we? Instead, in conjunction with other recent moves by Xbox, this only puts a spotlight on other issues current Xbox fans are dealing with.

For instance, what about Xbox games going to PlayStation? Game Pass isn't available on that platform and may never be, but that doesn't mean it sends a positive message to fans already questioning decisions at Xbox. No one can tell what the overall effect will be, but it certainly feels like Xbox is looking to attract gamers at the cost of others.

After years of players simply wanting more or better exclusives, Xbox finally has some of the finest content we've seen in years coming down the line from their studios. Did all those acquisitions and increased player agency come at the cost of game retention? Do exclusive games cease to exist to regain the money they've spent? At this point, all we have to go on is Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, saying, "We're redefining what it means to be an Xbox fan." Not every lifelong fan may want to stick around while you throw goodies at what some may perceive as only bandwagoners.

Credit is due to Deadly Headley, though. For weeks, I haven't been able to describe how I felt about the recent Xbox advertisements. I didn't fully comprehend the reasoning behind it, and thanks to his insights, it's a much better fit overall.

There's a strong desire within Microsoft for them to leverage the Zoomer generation. A fresh start, if you will, to make impacts in their player base that could cause ripples, if even waves, for decades to come. Let's hope we can all swim.

Read next: Inside the risky strategy that will define Xbox's next decade

There's a reason so much of Black Friday and Cyber Monday seems dominated by gaming handhelds, as that market has rapidly expanded throughout 2024. Most of the focus has been on the biggest, most powerful, and most feature-packed PC gaming handhelds like the ASUS ROG Ally, though, which can be costly. Fortunately, there's a more affordable, underrated alternative for those who don't need all that power.

The Razer Edge is a capable Android-powered gaming handheld with a smooth AMOLED display, detachable controls, and access to an impressive library of games — and over a year after its release you can add one to your setup for nearly half of its original price. You read that right, the Razer Edge is available for only $212.48 $247.95 at Amazon, which is honestly a great price on a mobile gaming powerhouse that can also play more Xbox and PC games than you'd expect.

• Check out our LIVE hub for all the best PC gaming handheld Black Friday deals

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• Samsung: Week-long holiday deals on laptops, TVs, phones, and more

A misunderstood gaming handheld that deserves some love

We here at Windows Central believe in being honest about how we feel, so I'm not going to sit here and lie that I'd happily trade my ASUS ROG Ally X for the Razer Edge... Because I wouldn't. The ROG Ally X is the best gaming handheld I've ever used, and it's far more powerful and capable than the Razer Edge. The ROG Ally X also costs over three times as much as the Razer Edge does, even with its own Black Friday discounts, so that's to be expected.

What I can tell you is that, when I reviewed the Razer Edge, I praised it for its performance, AMOLED display, and the versatility of the Android ecosystem. That was when it cost a whopping $400, but now you can get your own Razer Edge for nearly half that amount. That being said... Why should you?

Well, as I already mentioned, the Razer Edge isn't like other gaming handhelds on the market. The ASUS ROG Ally may be a full-blown Windows PC (and with its current deals, a better value than the Xbox Series S in my opinion), but it's big, heavy, and — again — a lot more expensive. By comparison, the Razer Edge feels more like a beefy smartphone or compact tablet that's designed from the ground up for gaming.

The core of that experience is Android. The Edge is powered by the same operating system that runs over a billion smartphones, and that gives it access to three massive libraries of games: the huge and growing catalog of mobile games in the Google Play Store (which increasingly includes actual console and PC-level games with controller support), a thriving community of classic game emulation platforms, and ways to stream almost any Xbox and PC game you want through services like Xbox Cloud Gaming.

To make all of that feel as great as possible on its gaming handheld, Razer stuffed Qualcomm's most powerful, gaming-focused ARM chipset of the time inside, added a buttery smooth 144Hz OLED display, and included its Razer Kishi V2 Pro mobile controller in the box. That means you get great performance all around, and the Razer Edge boasts unique features like virtual control emulation (so you can still use the physical controls in almost any mobile game, even those that only support touch) and audio-to-haptics, which converts game audio to haptic feedback in real time.

I wish the Razer Edge was shaped more like a traditional handheld console and that Razer was more aggressive with its software additions — like the Logitech G Cloud Android handheld, actually — but for those that want a casual, compact, less costly way to game on the go, the Razer Edge is a fine choice. When the Razer Edge only costs $212.48 at Amazon, it's a great choice. Of course, those with small tablets or powerful smartphones can turn their own device into a capable Android-powered gaming handheld with the Razer Kishi Ultra mobile controller, which is also on sale for $129.99 at Amazon.

In this golden age of mobile gaming, third-party manufacturers have produced top-of-the-line accessories that allow players to transform their mobile devices into full-blown gaming controllers.

One such mobile gaming controller is the GameSir G8 Galileo. Its price has just gotten more generous because it has a 37% Black Friday discount sale, taking its MSRP down from $99.99 to $62.99 at Amazon.

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Why should you buy the GameSir G8 Galileo?

GameSir has garnered a favorable reputation for creating high-quality and budget-friendly gaming controllers and peripherals that compete with the best Xbox gaming controllers and the industry's best Xbox Cloud Gaming controllers. GameSir's young G8 Galileo mobile controller upholds the company's pedigree for quality controllers with a solid build, comfy ergonomics controls with accurate inputs, and a smorgasbord of unique, gameplay-enhancing features.

One of these features is its Hall Effect joysticks and Hall Effect triggers to accompany its d-pad and four-face button layout that resembles an Xbox controller. Hall Effect controls differ from regular, mechanical controls because they use magnets and sensors to detect a player's input without any friction. This feature allows the player to perform more precise movements during gameplay so they execute complex attacks or maneuvers while reducing the risk of making input errors.

Other standout features of the GameSir G8 Galileo include mapping the functions of every button with the GameSir App and a USB-C port for pass-through charging via clipping into your mobile device so you don't have to charge it. In addition, it can switch between modes to be used for playing Xbox Cloud Gaming, basic mobile games, and even PlayStation games via PlayStation Remote Play.

The drawbacks of the GameSir G8 Galileo are very minor in the grand scheme of things but are still worth mentioning. Due to the chunky design of the controller, it's not very compact which can be an issue when you're trying to store it in a bag while traveling. In addition, this GameSir G8 Galileo is incompatible with folding phones as it lacks the USB-C connector to accommodate their unique designs.

Aside from these bugbears, the GameSir G8 Galileo is an excellent controller for anyone looking to play the best Xbox games via xCloud and mobile games like the popular Genshin Impact with maximum comfort.

So if you're interested in buying the GameSir G8 Galileo, now's a prime time to do so. Amazon is pulling the trigger early on Black Friday deals and is selling the GameSir G8 Galileo at a 37% discount, reducing its MSRP from $99.99 to $62.99, which is an absolute steal for the high-tech you're paying for.

What you need to know

• Xbox Cloud Gaming finally gets buy-to-own games.
• A few years ago, Microsoft announced its intent to add games to Xbox Cloud Gaming that you would be able to purchase and play at any time.
• The feature took a long, long time to materialize, but we're finally here.
• Xbox Cloud Gaming "Bring Your Own Game" feature goes live today on Xbox.com/play and the TV web app, with Xbox app for PC and Xbox consoles coming early next year.
• The initial selection adds 50 games to purchase for cloud, including titles like Final Fantasy Pixel Remasters, Balatro, Space Marine 2, Baldur's Gate 3, and Cyberpunk 2077.

Xbox Cloud Gaming finally gets its most highly anticipated feature.

They say late is better than never, and nothing exemplifies that in the Xbox universe than Microsoft's long-promised "bring your own games" feature for Xbox Cloud Gaming. All the way back in 2012, we reported that Microsoft had shown off an internal demo showcasing the future of Xbox gaming, which was Halo 5 running on a Windows Phone. Sadly, Windows Phone is no longer with us (RIP), but Xbox Cloud Gaming sure is.

Xbox Cloud Gaming is Microsoft's answer to NVIDIA GeForce Now, giving users access to a few hundred games via Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription on Xbox.com/play. A ton of games in Xbox Game Pass Ultimate are available with Xbox Cloud Gaming, giving you access to play dozens of titles on any device with a web browser, including Apple's iPad, phones, Amazon Fire Stick, and even some Samsung TVs. A few dozen games even have touch controls, meaning you don't need an Xbox controller or one of the various Xbox Cloud Gaming mobile controllers to play.

Previously, you were limited to games that were part of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to play on Xbox Cloud Gaming, but that ends today. In a post on Xbox Wire, Microsoft revealed that from this week, they're adding 50 games from the company's back catalog as playable via the cloud.

The full list of buy-to-own Xbox Cloud Games (so far) is as follows:

1. Animal Well
2. Assassin's Creed Mirage
3. Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora
4. Balatro
5. Baldur's Gate 3
6. Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden
7. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II
8. The Casting of Frank Stone
9. Cyberpunk 2077
10. Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake
11. DREDGE
12. Dying Light 2 Stay Human
13. Farming Simulator 25
14. Fear the Spotlight
15. FINAL FANTASY XIV Online
16. FINAL FANTASY
17. FINAL FANTASY II
18. FINAL FANTASY III
19. FINAL FANTASY IV
20. FINAL FANTASY V
21. FINAL FANTASY VI
22. Hades
23. Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions
24. High On Life
25. HITMAN World of Assassination
26. Hogwarts Legacy
27. House Flipper 2
28. Kena: Bridge of Spirits
29. Lego(R) Harry Potter (TM) Collection
30. Life is Strange: Double Exposure
31. Metro Exodus
32. Mortal Kombat 1
33. NBA 2K25
34. PGA TOUR 2K23
35. Phasmaphobia
36. Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
37. Rust Console Edition
38. 7 Days to Die
39. Star Wars Outlaws (tm)
40. Stray
41. The Crew (tm) Motorfest
42. The Outlast Trials
43. The Plucky Squire
44. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
45. Tom Clancy's The Division 2
46. TopSpin 2K25
47. UNDERTALE
48. Visions of Mana
49. Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2
50. WWE 2K24

The initial wave of games will be available on Xbox.com/play and the web-apps on a Meta Quest VR headset, Amazon Fire Stick, and Samsung TVs to begin with. Buy-to-own cloud gaming features for Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and the Xbox app for PC will come a bit later in early 2025.

Microsoft has also previously announced that it will no longer update the Xbox Cloud Gaming apps on Android since allowing users to buy their own content violates Google's gatekeeping store rules. Google is currently undergoing an anti-trust investigation in the United States, which could end with it having to open up its Android platform to third-party stores. But for now, Microsoft's only option is to offer the app via the web at Xbox.com/play, which you can then pin as a web app using various browsers.

The Xbox Cloud Gaming "buy to own" games feature will be available in every country where the service is currently live, including: Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Czechia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States.

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More Xbox "buy to own" cloud games will come later

There are some really great games included in the first wave, even recent ones. It's impressive to see some of the best Xbox games ever hit the list, including The Witcher 3 and Cyberpunk 2077. It's also great to see more recent entries like Space Marine 2 and Visions of Mana. Turn-based games like Final Fantasy Pixel Remasters will be great for cloud conditions too, where the best speeds aren't always available.

The elephant in the room with all this is that Xbox Cloud Gaming is still not quite on par with NVIDIA GeForce Now, at least when it comes to bitrate. That crown firmly goes to NVIDIA, owing to their purpose-built servers designed specifically for video encoding. Microsoft's Xbox Cloud Gaming delivery is based on AMD chips designed for Xbox Series X|S consoles, which was never built with video encoding in mind. Given that fact, it's incredibly impressive that they've been able to pull off what they have, and Xbox, of course, has the home-field advantage of thousands of games potentially ready-baked for the service. NVIDIA relies on connecting to other services like Steam and PC Game Pass for its library, which can feel a bit clunky in some situations.

RELATED: Xbox has some impressive momentum going into 2025

In any case, we should begin seeing near-monthly drops of new buy-to-own cloud games as Microsoft scales up its service. It could induce a flood of new users, potentially triggering queues. NVIDIA itself recently instituted a 100-hour per-month time limit on its GeForce Now service, owing to scalability issues. With companies like Apple and Google gatekeeping discoverability, it could be a long time before cloud gaming becomes truly profitable at scale. However, like Netflix, they won't be able to stifle its growth forever, especially since Google itself exited the market with its failed Stadia service.

Either way, this exciting development is a huge milestone for Microsoft's "Everything is now an Xbox" strategy. It'll be interesting to watch it grow.

What you need to know

• Hoyoverse has uploaded a trailer for Genshin Impact's next big content update called Version 5.2 "Tapestry of Spirit and Flame".
• Version 5.2 will include two new playable characters, two new Saurians, two new tribes, a new boss, new seasonal content, more main storyline quests, and more.
• Additionally, Hoyoverse has announced that when the Xbox Series X|S version of Genshin Impact launches on November 20, 2024, Xbox players will receive the Wind Glider early and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members will receive recurring item bundles containing useful in-game items.
• Genshin Impact is a free-to-play action-RPG with 'gacha' elements where the player must explore the world of Teyvat in search of their lost sibling and defend it from monsters and villains alike.

In just a few weeks, Xbox players will get a chance to play Genshin Impact, one of the most action-RPGs in recent memory when it officially launches for the Xbox Series X|S and Xbox Cloud Gaming on November 20, 2024.

When the Xbox version launches, Xbox players will be able to catch up on all of Genshin Impact's content, from the base game to its next big content update, Version 5.2, "Tapestry of Spirit and Flame," which launches on the same day.

To celebrate the occasion, HoYoverse has uploaded a trailer showcasing all the exciting new gameplay content Version 5.2 will bring and reveal special information regarding bonus in-game content that will only be available to Xbox players.

In Version 5.2, players will explore the land of Natlan in search of adventure, uncovering lost history, and preventing deadly conflicts from brewing. Along the way, players will encounter new playable characters to join their roster, discover two new Saurian forms to help assist with exploration, learn more about the cultures of Natlan by interacting with two new tribes, and much more.

The new content Version 5.2 will bring to Genshin Impact shall include the following:

• Two new Saurian forms: Qucusaurs, which have the power to glide over long distances and perform mid-air dashes to jump over gaps. Iktomisaurs, which can jump very high and detect hidden mechanics in the environment by using their unique eye-sight ability.
• Two new playable characters: Chasca, a five-star Anemo bow-user who uses a giant magic gun to blast enemies away with multi-elemental ranged attacks. Ororon, a four-star Electro bow-user who can synergize with Electro and Hydro elemental party members thanks to his unique Nightsoul mechanic.
• Two new tribes: The Flower-Feather Clan and the Masters of the Night-Wind.
• New areas to explore, including the ruins of an ancient city called Ochkanatlan.
• A continuation of the Archon Quest called Chapter V: Interlude. In this storyline, players must team up Ianson and the Captain to help the Flower-Feather Clan recover from a terrible Abyssal contamination.
• A new seasonal event featuring Citlali and Ororon, which is offering reward for the four-star sword known as the Calamity of Eshu.
• A new boss known to fight in Natlan called Tenebrous Papilla, which has the ability to shapeshift in different enemies.

RELATED: Rumors suggest another PS5 exclusive is making its way across to Xbox Series X|S

As for the exclusive Xbox content: When Genshin Impact launches on Xbox platforms, players who reach Adventure Rank of 2 or higher will be able to obtain the 'Wings of Fate's Course Intertwined' Wing Glider item early by logging into the game on Xbox. Do note that the 'Wings of Fate's Course Intertwined' Wing Glider will be available later on other platforms when Version 5.3 launches.

Additionally, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members will receive exclusive recurring bonus item packs whenever a new big content update for Genshin Impact launches. For instance, the item pack bundle Xbox players will receive for Version 5.2 will contain the following items:

• 2x Intertwined Fate
• 1x Northlander Billet Trove
• 10x Hero's Wit
• 100,000x Mora
• 15x Mystic Enhancement Ore

To claim the item bundles, you must log into Genshin Impact on Xbox platforms so it will go into your in-game mail box. You will have 365 days to claim your mail and each Microsoft Account can only receive an item bundle's contents once per version.

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The time has nearly come for Xbox players to explore the world of Genshin Impact

When HoYoverse announced that Genshin Impact would finally be coming to Xbox consoles back in August 2024, it sent waves across the gaming industry, and for good reason. Genshin Impact is an immensely popular action-RPG that has captured the admiration of critics and fans alike for its high production values, complex narrative and world-building lore, memorable characters, a never-ending stream of free content updates, and an addicting gameplay loop.

I admit I never played Genshin Impact despite its massive popularity due to work and preoccupying my time with other big action game series that require huge time commitments such as Monster Hunter and World of Warcraft.

However, after reading Mia Skye's excellent overview of what makes Genshin Impact so special (and learning that I don't even need Xbox Game Pass Core to play it), I've decided I'll finally give this game a shot when it launches on Xbox Series X|S later this month and see just what it so popular to begin.

Will Genshin Impact exceed my and many other Xbox fans' expectations and become one of the best Xbox games of this console generation? Join us on our adventures into Teyvat to find out when Genshin Impact finally launches on Xbox Series X|S and Xbox Cloud Gaming on November 20, 2024.

What you need to know

• The GameSir G8+ is a Bluetooth mobile controller that turns your phone into a fully fledged handheld for Xbox Cloud Gaming and Nvida GeForce Now
• Two limited edition versions have just dropped as part of a Marvel collaboration.
• The Hulk and Thanos controllers cost $99.99 and are available from Newegg or Walmart.

GameSir is hands down one of the best in the business when it comes to third-party, value-packed controllers for Xbox. They also have an amazing range of mobile controllers, which are perfect for Xbox Cloud Gaming. The latest addition to their lineup, the G8 controllers, comes in both USB-C and Bluetooth versions, and I've tested both extensively enough to confidently say they are my favorite mobile controllers ever.

Unfortunately for me (but fortunately for you), GameSir has just dropped a striking Marvel collaboration for the GameSir G8+ (Bluetooth edition). You can now grab a limited edition in either Hulk or Thanos styles for $99.99 from Walmart or Newegg. If you don’t already own this controller, you can now snag this much better-looking version from either retailer.

Why I love the GameSir G8+ above all

If you’ve checked out our list of the best Xbox controllers you’ll see we’ve named the GameSir G8 as the best option for mobile gaming. It’s also made it onto my best Xbox Cloud gaming controllers list. The G8 series includes the standard G8 Galileo (which connects via USB-C) and the G8+, a Bluetooth version that’s compatible with way more devices and can even fit a folding phone.

The G8+ packs in a ton of features you wouldn't expect in a mobile controller at its $79.99 price point, like rumble motors, Hall Effect sticks and triggers, back buttons, and even a 6-axis gyroscope.

These Marvel editions, however, come with a slight bump in price at $99.99, but for that, you’re getting a limited edition design. And honestly, if I had to choose right now, I'd be stuck. The Hulk edition immediately catches my eye with its retro, transparent green and purple aesthetic, but I also love how the Thanos edition colors the ABXY buttons like the Infinity Stones. Pretty neat, right? And as a bonus, the plates on these controllers are magnetic, so you can swap them out with other designs.

Aesthetics aside, the GameSir G8+ is hands down the most comfortable mobile gaming controller I’ve ever used. Its full-sized grips and buttons make it feel just like an Xbox controller split into two. I’ve put mine through its paces, playing Diablo 4: Vessel of Hatred on Nvidia GeForce Now, and Vampire Survivors on Xbox Cloud Gaming. With Xbox Cloud Gaming soon allowing you to play your purchased games, starting in November, this controller is only going to get more useful.

The only other mobile controller that comes close in terms of comfort is the Razer Kishi Ultra, but that one’s priced at $149.99. You can check out my full thoughts in my GameSir G8+ review, but to sum it up: if you're planning to dive into Xbox Cloud Gaming on your phone as the library expands in the coming months, this controller is a solid investment.

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What you need to know

• Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 will be available day one via Xbox Cloud Gaming when it launches on Oct. 25, 2024. 
• Microsoft was forced to sell off the Cloud streaming rights to Activision Blizzard King games to Ubisoft, meaning the company has to pay Ubisoft in order to add these games to Xbox Cloud Gaming. 
• Xbox Cloud Gaming is included as part of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which also includes day one access to new Xbox first-party games. 
• Diablo 4 was the first Activision Blizzard King title added to Xbox Game Pass, but the hack-and-slash RPG is not available on Xbox Cloud Gaming right now.

One of the biggest games of the year will be available to stream through the Cloud. 

Treyarch, Raven Software, and Activision Publishing's Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 will be available through Xbox Cloud Gaming at launch on October 25, Microsoft shared on Monday on Monday via Xbox Wire. The latest entry in the yearly first-person shooter franchise will be joined by Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 and Call of Duty: Warzone, which will also be available through Xbox Cloud Gaming on the same day. 

Xbox Cloud Gaming is available through Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Microsoft's gaming subscription service that also grants access to the standard editions of first-party games on day one. Xbox Game Studios and Bethesda Softworks titles are available through Xbox Cloud Gaming, but Activision Blizzard King games aren't guaranteed. 

This is because Microsoft had to sell the Cloud streaming rights to these titles to Ubisoft in order to get the acquisition of Activision Blizzard King approved by the CMA, the U.K. regulatory body.

Analysis: Microsoft paid to get Call of Duty on Cloud, but where is Diablo 4?

Blizzard Entertainment's hack-and-slash RPG Diablo 4 was the first Activision Blizzard King title to arrive in Xbox Game Pass earlier in the year, but it's not available through Xbox Cloud Gaming. Not many games from Activision's back catalogue have joined the service yet, but the Crash Bandicoot trilogy also supported Xbox Cloud Gaming when it arrived, so it's curious to see Diablo as the now-seemingly sole exception. 

This is especially odd when looking at the genres of games in question. Call of Duty being more accessible to a wider audience through Cloud gaming is great, but fast-paced first-person shooters don't play well with a lot of added latency. By contrast, something like Diablo 4 with a fixed camera perspective is more forgiving when streamed, as seen through NVIDIA GeForce NOW.

Of course, it's entirely possible that there are plans already underway and Diablo 4 is headed to Xbox Cloud Gaming before long. Microsoft is making moves for its Cloud gaming plans, and players will soon be able to buy and play games directly through the Xbox App on Android, a process that will expand and include the games players already own.

All of this is made even more interesting by the fact that Ubisoft, holder of the streaming rights, may be purchased by Tencent and the Guillemot family in the near future. What happens to the rights in that situation? We'll have to wait and see how it all pans out.

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What you need to know

• Right now, Xbox Cloud Gaming only supports games in Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, but that's changing from November 2024.
• Xbox Cloud Gaming is finally getting the ability to purchase games to own outside of Game Pass, confirmed in a thread by Xbox President Sarah Bond.
• However, it won't instantly give you access to your entire digital Xbox console game library, with the rollout set to be gradual over the coming weeks and months ahead.

It finally happened. The long-awaited rollout of buy-to-own Xbox games in the cloud is coming in November, 2024 (next month!), but there are some details well-worth knowing.

Microsoft first announced its long-term vision for Xbox Cloud Gaming as early as 2019, when it set out its goal to bring its entire Xbox games catalog to the cloud. Since then, we've been waiting an incredibly long time for confirmation of the program's launch window, and Xbox President Sarah Bond posted in a thread just yesterday that the plan is finally going ahead. However, some details are still missing from the equation.

Post by @bondsarah_bond

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So, what's going on with Xbox Cloud Gaming?

So, what's going on with Xbox Cloud Gaming?

In the thread above, Sarah Bond hailed the U.S. courts for its decision in a recent Google vs. Epic case, which forced Google to open up its app platform to third-party stores and goods sales. Google Play's policies prevent platforms from selling content directly through their own apps, which is why, for example, you can't buy Kindle books directly through the Kindle app on Android anymore. However, thanks to this U.S. court ruling, that will likely now change.

DEAL: Get an Amazon Fire Stick 4K, Xbox controller, and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate for cloud gaming 45% OFF

For Xbox, it means that Microsoft can begin selling Xbox games directly through its shiny new Xbox Android app in the United States. And while it seems Google has wiggled around the EU's similar legislation on the topic, it probably won't be long until the chips fall there too. Right now, you can only play Xbox Game Pass Ultimate games on Xbox Cloud Gaming. But from next month, you'll be able to create your own cloud library using games from the Xbox Store as well.

Indeed, one of the main questions I've had so far about this new feature is "what about iOS? what about outside of the United States?"

Will Xbox Cloud Gaming "buy to own" be available on iOS, PC, or outside the United States?

Well first of all, right now, yes, our sources indicate that Android in the United States will be the only Xbox app version that gains this new capability, at least initially. Apple's app platform is still (inexplicably) locked down, so don't expect it on iOS. And Google may even overturn the previous decision on appeal. Google may even figure out some arbitrary fine-print way to throw the Xbox app out of the Google Play Store, like Google did when it revoked the YouTube app for Windows Phone API keys back in the day.

Yes, you will also need Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to access your cloud games — maintaining that server infrastructure ain't cheap. However, we believe Microsoft is working on a cloud-only Xbox subscription plan for the future too, based on our sourcing. But will you need an Android device?

It seems that Microsoft is planning to bring these features to Xbox.com/play on the web as well. So even if Google does somehow get around to sabotaging this feature, or you find yourself unlucky enough to have an iPhone, you should still be able to access your Xbox games via the web version. Additionally, the Xbox app on Amazon Fire Stick 4K ($29.99 at Amazon) devices and Samsung TVs that support Xbox Cloud Gaming are already based on the website, so they should get this functionality lit up as well around the same time. It seems likely that the Xbox app on PC will also gain this functionality too, naturally.

What regions will Xbox Cloud Gaming "Bring Your Own Games" be available in?

It seems that additionally, even if Android in the United States is the only version with this functionality natively, the ability to play your own games via the cloud will roll out more broadly to other Xbox Cloud Gaming markets on Xbox.com/play. However, the exact timelines for this is unclear. It could be that initially, Microsoft starts with the United States, and then moves to light up other markets over time.

You can check if your region supports Xbox Cloud Gaming via Xbox Game Pass Ultimate at the website xbox.com/regions. The current region list is as follows:

Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Will Xbox Cloud Gaming support ALL of my games on day one?

Another important point to note is that even in the United States, Xbox Cloud Gaming will not support your entire library of games at launch. One reason being that some publishers are simply going to opt out, because they have exclusive deals with other services perhaps, or maybe they're seeking to build their own cloud platforms in the future. Another reason is more technical. Xbox's cloud servers are based on Xbox hardware, and stream installations of cloud titles on the fly if necessary at times. I've been told in the past that when queues appear on Xbox Cloud Gaming, sometimes it's due to the server node drawing the game down from network-attached storage, if it hasn't been used recently by another player in that node.

Up until now, Xbox's cloud servers have had an expected 300~ or so games available due to Xbox Game Pass, but now they plan to expand that catalog to thousands upon thousands of titles. That's potentially terabytes of additional required network-attached storage, as such, the rollout of the existing Xbox Cloud Gaming library will arrive in batches I believe. This might look similar to how NVIDIA GeForce Now announces new games from Steam hitting its service as it cuts deals with license holders and expands its own storage facilities.

So yes, while the rollout won't give you instantaneous access to your entire library at launch, it's still an important step toward that future where you'll be able to access all of your Xbox games, anywhere, at any time.

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A future in the Xbox cloud

In a universe where platform holders are trying to figure out where the next wave of growth will come from, cloud gaming seems to be a promising option. Players are increasingly cloud-based and digitized, as sales of physical media wane in the wake of the popularity of digital platforms like Steam, and even iOS and Android. People just expect their content to be available when moving between devices now, and that's certainly the universe the next generation of potential consumers have grown up in.

RELATED: Xbox Cloud Gaming requirements and set up

Xbox is hoping that it can be ahead of the curve in this nascent market, but significant challenges remain. Xbox Cloud Gaming and cloud gaming in general is very network-dependent. Even if you have good bandwidth coming in, you still need to make sure you're running 5 GHz Wi-Fi to get the best experience, or even ethernet in some cases. Not everybody is willing or able to accommodate the requirements involved with cloud gaming. Given that Microsoft is targeting folk who are casual to the point of not wanting to own a home console at all, there's certainly a gap to bridge when you consider the technical complexity of optimizing your home networking. Most enthusiasts are already buying Xbox Series X|S consoles or Windows PCs for native gaming anyway, making me wonder how much appeal something like cloud gaming might actually have with the console-eschewing audience.

Still, even if "cloud" simply becomes another way for core users to access their Xbox content, I'm all for it. I'm not sure Xbox Cloud Gaming will deliver the new audience Xbox is hoping for, but technological advancements with Wi-Fi and mobile networks could eliminate the accessibility gap. It's crucial that Microsoft has a foot in the door if it does become more popular. And I'd say they have a pretty big foot in there already. It would be a nice addition for saving storage on an Xbox handheld ... that's for sure.

What you need to know

• Diablo 4: Vessel of Hatred is now available for streaming on Nvidia GeForce Now, along with some space themed additions.
• Battle.Net syncing is now supported, allowing members to sync their Blizzard game library with GeForce Now.
• We still can't play Activision Blizzard titles on the Xbox Cloud Gaming service thanks to the CMA ruling in the UK during the acquisition.

This week has been huge for Diablo 4 fans, with the launch of it's first expansion Vessel of Hatred, and today it's officially hit the Nvidia GeForce Now platform.  This release is part of the latest GeForce Now Thursday announcement, which also includes several new titles and significant updates to the platform’s syncing capabilities. Ultimate members can enjoy up to 4K resolution and 120 frames per second with NVIDIA DLSS and ray-tracing technologies. As well as the Vessel of Hatred update, we can now play:

• Empyrion – Galactic Survival (New release on Epic Games Store, Oct. 10)
• Europa (New release on Steam, Oct. 11)
• Dwarven Realms (Steam)
• Star Trek Timelines (Steam)
• Star Trucker (Steam)
• Starcom: Unknown Space (Steam)

Play Diablo 4: Vessel of Hatred and many other Blizzard titles on any cloud-enabled device

One of the standout features of this week’s GeForce NOW update is the introduction of Battle.Net syncing. This new capability allows members to sync their Blizzard game library with GeForce NOW, ensuring that all their favorite Blizzard titles, such as Overwatch 2, Hearthstone, and StarCraft 2, are readily accessible across all their devices. This addition joins existing syncing support for other digital storefronts, including Steam, Epic Games Store, Xbox, and Ubisoft Connect.

For Nvidia GeForce Ultimate members, the experience is even more impressive. They can enjoy the latest Diablo IV DLC at up to 4K resolution and 120 frames per second, thanks to NVIDIA DLSS and ray-tracing technologies. This means that even on low-powered devices, like the Logitech G Cloud I'm playing on above, players can experience high-quality graphics and smooth gameplay, making the most of their cloud gaming sessions. I'm already a huge fan of Nvidia GeForce Now, my subscription allowing me to play Baldur's Gate 3 last year when my Steam Deck struggled with the title. You can even now use Nvidia GeForce Now on your Xbox with some integration on the dashboard.

It's still ridiculous that we can't play Diablo 4 on Xbox Game Pass, and it could get more ridiculous...

While the launch of Diablo 4: Vessel of Hatred on GeForce Now is fantastic news for people like me who have a Nvidia GeForce Now subscription  it’s frustrating that we can’t access this on Xbox Cloud Gaming as part of the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription. Having to pay for an additional service to enjoy cloud gaming on a title owned by Microsoft feels counterintuitive. Unfortunately, we have the UK government to blame for this situation.

Due to a ruling by the UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), Microsoft had to transfer the cloud gaming rights for Activision Blizzard games to Ubisoft for the next 10 years. This decision was a condition for Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard to proceed. As a result, Diablo 4 and other Blizzard titles are not available on Xbox Cloud Gaming, even though they are accessible on other platforms like GeForce Now.

The situation could become even more complicated. Despite the CMA’s concerns about Microsoft having a ‘monopoly’ in the cloud gaming market, transferring these rights to Ubisoft might lead to them being acquired by another major corporation. Tencent is currently eyeing an acquisition of Ubisoft, which could result in Tencent owning the cloud gaming rights to these Blizzard titles. This outcome likely wasn’t the CMA’s intention, but it could lead to an even less favorable situation for consumers, who now have to pay for two subscriptions to get the same service as they would have done prior to the CMA ruling. The prospect of Tencent owning the rights to stream games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 doesn’t sound too promising to me.

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Nvidia GeForce Now is superior to Xbox Cloud Gaming

As much as I love Xbox Cloud Gaming, I do have to admit that Nvidia GeForce Now surpasses it in performance and I do find the extra subscription worth it. The concept is that you play the games you already own, but with the power of high-end NVIDIA PCs over the cloud. GeForce Now gives better resolution, framerate, visual fidelity, bitrate performance, and latency—outperforming Xbox Cloud Gaming. It even works over hotel wi-fi, as Jez Corden found out when he tried to play World of Warcraft. That being said, I'd still love to see Diablo 4 and other titles on Xbox Game Pass as the requirement for the extra subscription isn't viable for most. If you do find yourself wanting to try it out, we have a link to the service below. 

What you need to know

• Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, developed by Treyarch Studios and published by Activision, is set for an October 25 release date.
• The game will be available on NVIDIA's GeForce Now cloud streaming service for those who own it on Steam or Battle.net. The Microsoft Store version available to Xbox Game Pass subscribers is not included.
• Xbox's merger with Activision was marred by regulators with concerns about a potential monopoly in the cloud gaming sector, which led to Xbox selling off the cloud gaming rights for Activision's catalog to Ubisoft.

If you want to experience Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 bolstered by the power of an NVIDIA 4080 GPU, then get your GeForce Now account ready. In a blog post on NVIDIA's website, the streaming service confirmed that Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 would be one of 22 titles coming to the service in October. The Xbox Game Pass version available on the Microsoft Store is not listed as compatible with GeForce NOW.

NVIDIA's GeForce NOW service is available in North America and Europe and offers cloud-based game streaming that draws on server farms packed with GeForce RTX 4080s. The service offers multiple tiers of access at various price points, the most expensive of which locks in the highest possible frame rates and even supports ray tracing. Those who want to take advantage of playing Black Ops 6 via GeForce NOW will need to have purchased the game on either Steam or Battle.net. 

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 availability for Xbox Cloud Gaming, previously known as xCloud, has not yet been confirmed. Microsoft was forced into concessions regarding cloud gaming during the litigation period of its record-breaking purchase of COD publisher, Activision. Regulatory bodies in the UK denied the Activision merger initially over concerns for what it called a "nascent cloud-gaming market". The CMA stated it believed Microsoft was picking and choosing its competition by signing licensing agreements with cloud-gaming service providers like NVIDIA and Boosteroid. 

Microsoft ultimately signed an agreement to sell Activision's entire catalog of games, including Call of Duty, to Ubisoft for inclusion in its Ubisoft+ cloud gaming service in perpetuity. The agreement satisfied regulators and the merger was allowed to close. Ubisoft has yet to announce if Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 will join its service on release.

In addition to Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, NVIDIA announced an additional 21 titles coming to the cloud service for October, including the following:

• THRONE AND LIBERTY 
• Sifu
• Bear and Breakfast
• Monster Jam Showdown
• TerraTech Worlds
• Europa
• Neva
• MechWarrior 5: Clans
• A Quiet Place: The Road Ahead
• Worshippers of Cthulhu
• No More Room in Hell 2
• Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven
• Life is Strange: Double Exposure
• Artisan TD
• ASKA
• DUCKSIDE
• Dwarven Realms
• Selaco
• Spirit City: Lofi Sessions
• Starcom: Unknown Space
• Star Trek Timelines

In addition to the new games, GeForce NOW has also announced new updates to its user account portal, which will allow players to see their playtime details and gameplay history.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, developed by Treyarch Studios and published by Activision, is the first COD title to launch day one on Xbox Game Pass, with former Activision CEO Bobby Kotick having been staunchly opposed to the practice. The game's launcher has undergone significant changes recently, and in an interview during Call of Duty: Next Treyarch leadership shared that the game experience is on "a journey to get where want to be." 

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What you need to know

• Bloomberg Intelligence is a firm that that delivers analysis on a variety of industries to help investors. 
• A recent report from the firm shared to us describes how the cloud gaming market (that Bloomberg describes as cloud streaming gaming or CSG) could expand to become a $40 billion industry in the next ten years. 
• Bloomberg cites markets like India leading the way. Coupled with the roll out of more powerful internet options, traditional console gaming plays second fiddle to mobile play in the region. 
• Bloomberg analysists describe how Xbox is poised to lead the way in the segment, but warn against strong competition from PlayStation and NVIDIA. 

Today, Sony revealed its $699.99 PS5 Pro, while Microsoft focuses on making Xbox more affordable than ever. 

A recent report from Bloomberg Intelligence shared with us by the firm details how Xbox and Microsoft could be at the forefront of a major cloud gaming boom over the next decade. One of Microsoft's most prolific innovations with Xbox in recent years is its Xbox Cloud Gaming service, which as of right now, is tied to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. In essence, cloud gaming allows users to avoid paying the upfront cost of a console, which can run into hundreds of dollars, and instead pay a subscription to use one of Microsoft's servers to deliver the game to their local device. 

The limitations of the tech at numerous, though. Light can only travel so fast, and even with the best fibre optic conditions, the end user's physical distance to a data center can introduce latency or pixelated visuals. Furthermore, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is also quite expensive at $19.99, particularly if you have no plans to use its additional features. You're also limited to games within the Xbox Game Pass library, which contains roughly 300~ games on a revolving basis. However, Microsoft is on the cusp of fixing some of these limitations — more on that shortly. 

RELATED: Best controllers for Xbox Cloud Gaming

Microsoft is always expanding its data center footprint to accommodate its users, and is currently constructing a server farm in Hyderbad, India, which is of particular interest to today's topic. 

Bloomberg Intelligence is a firm that provides analysis on a variety of industry topics to help investors make better decisions. Recently, the company shared a report with us detailing how it thinks cloud gaming is set to expand ten fold over the next decade, growing into a $40 billion industry globally. 

"Cloud-streamed gaming (CSG) services took in $3.5 billion of revenue last year, a sliver of the $184 billion generated by video-game makers globally, yet we think the share will increase rapidly as streaming lets gamemakers reach a bigger addressable market that includes mobile devices, not just consoles and PCs. This will be crucial for emerging markets, where people rely more on mobile devices and less on expensive, fixed hardware."

The full report details how it will be India, rather than the United States, that leads growth in this segment. India is a nation dominated by more flexible mobile gaming, instead of more traditional console gaming. The upfront cost of a video game console is simply well beyond the current purchasing power of some regions, which has led to the near-total domination of mobile gaming to fill the gap. Bloomberg emphasizes that the roll out of improved network infrastructure in countries like India over the next decade could lead to a cloud gaming boom, owing to the pending availability of global heavy hitters like Call of Duty appearing on cloud gaming services. 

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Bloomberg specifically cites AI technologies as supporting cloud gaming aspirations too, owing to the ability to potentially artificially generate frames on the local device to offset latency issues. Frame generation is widely expected to be ready to play a major role in the next console generation, and it's undoubtedly going to have some role to play in mobile gaming as well. Microsoft has also been on the cutting edge in this sector, committing to Snapdragon processors for its Copilot+ PC range, which come with local NPU cores for generative AI without necessarily needing to fully leverage the cloud for video encoding. Future phones, consoles, and maybe even TVs will eventually have neural processing as standard, too, potentially enhancing the usability of cloud gaming beyond its current technical limitations. 

Bloomberg expects that Microsoft (with Xbox) and Sony (with PlayStation) will "dominate" the cloud gaming market to the tune of 40% and 15% respectively, owing to both firm's massive content back catalogs and their head start in the sector. 

Pain points

There are a variety of pain points Microsoft and its fellow cloud gaming providers will need to overcome in this report, though. For example, Bloomberg cites the fact Apple has "opened up" its app store to cloud gaming as of January 2024, but the reality is far from the case. Xbox was in court just last week complaining to regulators about Apple. Apple's "opening up" of its store amounts to what is essentially a lie, with its fees and rules about in-app purchasing making the business unviable. Google Play has been marginally better, but the regulations and policies of both Google's Android and Apple's iOS has led Microsoft to double down on developing its Xbox Cloud Gaming web version instead, which exclusively features Fortnite, as Epic Games also sought to avoid Apple's history of regulator-mocking anti-competitive behavior. Cynically, I'm not sure Microsoft can rely on Apple to grow its business, but perhaps Bloomberg has more reasons to be optimistic here. 

Bloomberg also projected that Microsoft will introduce ad-based tiers in 2025 for Xbox Cloud Gaming to improve access to the service for lower-income customers. However, as of right now, our sources suggest that Microsoft isn't planning on introducing ad-based tiers for Xbox Cloud Gaming any time soon, despite some exploration into the possibility. Plans could change, though, and it's undoubtedly a good idea. We did confirm that Microsoft will introduce a separate Xbox Cloud Gaming tier in the future to potentially bring down costs instead, splitting it off from the more expensive Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate includes PC Game Pass and Xbox Game Pass, which cloud-only users wouldn't necessarily want or need. Microsoft is also planning to let users buy games to own via Xbox Cloud Gaming as well, possibly as early as this winter. 

The report also presumes that Microsoft will place games like Call of Duty and Diablo on its cloud service, but that might not be the case for anywhere up to fifteen years. The UK competition regulator (CMA) forced Microsoft to give up the cloud gaming rights for all Activision-Blizzard titles, handing Ubisoft exclusivity to license all cloud gaming versions of these titles on a global basis. As of writing, it's NVIDIA GeForce Now that has benefitted from offering cloud versions of these titles, rather than Xbox. There's no evidence to suggest Ubisoft plans to provide access to these titles for Xbox Cloud Gaming users. However, given the recent jitters over XDefiant and Star Wars Outlaws' performance coupled with the cratering of its share price, Ubisoft may be more willing to make a deal than they were previously. Plans here could definitely change quickly, given the circumstances. 

Massive potential, massive uncertainty

The report's author and Bloomberg analyst and researcher Nathan Naidu emphasized Xbox's "grip" over the sector, but warned that Sony remains a huge potential competitor despite Microsoft's technological advantage.

"Xbox has a solid grip on the cloud streamed gaming (CSG) market thanks to its lead over major rivals in games library and cloud technology, with a greater emphasis on cloud technology in the earlier half of Bloomberg Intelligence’s forecast period as that sets its apart from Sony and other key competitors in the CSG market," Nathan continued. "[Xbox's] strength in cloud technology underpins better-than-peer user experience and subsequently successes in its user acquisition. Sony’s [PlayStation Now] still has the largest game catalog, which includes first party games that are at the same calibre to those offered by Xbox, and we think that is Sony’s strongest defence against its arch-rival. We expect Sony’s cloud gaming strategies going forward to be more reactive in nature as it anticipates other actions that Microsoft’s Xbox unit may take, particularly around platform exclusivity of key games franchises." 

Microsoft's gaming business is in a bit of a weird place right now. I wrote a while ago about how Xbox is undergoing some growing pains, and its vast size and vast purchase of Activision-Blizzard has similarly increased its need for vast cash flow. To that end, Microsoft has begun doing the unthinkable — putting Xbox exclusives onto PlayStation, with no sign of stopping. 

It's a capitulation in essence, that Microsoft admits it has lost the console war so Sony's dominating PlayStation platform, which has outsold Xbox 3:1, or even higher, according to some analyses. Microsoft insists it has "more Xbox console users than ever," and it now has an addressable audience of half a billion users, owing to mobile titans like Candy Crush Saga, and the juggernaut that is Call of Duty. To find growth in a stagnant console market, Microsoft has spread its tendrils out across to mobile gaming and PC gaming, where it faces a variety of other challenges, from Steam's dominance on PC to Apple's anti-competitive policy behavior. 

Microsoft's diversity has always been its strength. However, its tendency to pivot into new industries has often come at the detriment of others, as its attention wavers. Microsoft's Xbox console platform still servers tens of millions of users, but various issues from major publisher games skipping the platform to independent Xbox devs having to reach out publicly on social media to get client support speak to an Xbox that has utterly divided attention, and may be spreading itself far too thin in the process. 

If the cloud gaming market well and truly is poised to grow ten fold in ten years as Bloomberg projects, Microsoft certainly can't afford to take its eye off the ball. 

GameSir has steadily gained recognition in recent years, particularly within the budget gaming controller market. I always look forward to reviewing their products, as they consistently offer great value for money.

Earlier this year, I reviewed theGameSir G8 Galileo and it quickly earned a spot on our list of best controllers for Xbox Cloud Gaming list. Now, they've launched the GameSir G8 Galileo Plus. Now, they've introduced the GameSir G8 Galileo Plus. The key difference? The new model supports Bluetooth, making it compatible with a wider range of devices. Aside from that, there are a few minor upgrades that I’ll cover in this review. 

Disclaimer: This review was made possible by a review unit provided by GameSir. The company did not see the contents of the review before publishing.

GameSir G8 Galileo Plus: Price, availability and specs 

Based in Hong Kong, GameSir is a company that specializes in gaming accessories, with a strong focus on controllers for Xbox, PC, and mobile platforms. The GameSir G8 Galileo Plus is available for purchase either through GameSir’s official website or on Amazon, priced at $79.99. Inside the box, you’ll find the controller, user instructions, a set of stickers, and three different thumbstick options, allowing users to personalize their gaming experience by swapping in their preferred thumbsticks. A USB-C cable is also included for charging the device. Below is a quick comparison table outlining the key differences between the GameSir G8 Galileo Plus and the original GameSir G8 Galileo.

GameSir G8 Galileo Plus: What's good

The USB-C version of this controller is already my top choice for Xbox Cloud Gaming, largely due to its exceptional comfort. So, it’s no surprise that I feel the same about the GameSir G8 Plus. The core shape and size remain unchanged, and they didn’t need to be—it's already the perfect fit. The controller features a textured finish on the grips and back, enhancing its ergonomic feel. We also get full-sized buttons and triggers, though the thumbsticks are slightly smaller, aligning more with handhelds like the ROG Ally rather than the larger Xbox controller sticks. The standout feature of the G8 models is how they feel in your hands, and nothing else quite compares.

One subtle difference, when comparing the two side by side, is that the original G8 mimicked the Xbox controller's start and menu button design. The G8 Plus, however, uses ‘plus’ and ‘minus’ symbols, akin to the Nintendo Switch. Despite this design change, the buttons still function identically.

Where the GameSir G8 Galileo truly stands out from its competitors is its inclusion of hall-effect triggers and joysticks—a feature that's gaining traction in the market and one that I personally appreciate. In fact, it’s a technology we wish Xbox would implement in their controllers. Hall-effect technology uses magnetic sensors to measure movement and distance with extreme precision, offering unmatched accuracy and durability in control mechanisms. Since no physical contact occurs between parts, there’s no wear and tear, meaning no stick drift over time. These sticks will remain reliable even after a year of use.

Additionally, instead of simply providing thumbstick caps, GameSir goes a step further by allowing you to swap out the entire thumbstick. The G8 Galileo includes three extra thumbstick options: a small thumbstick, a tall thumbstick, and a dome-shaped thumbstick. The faceplates are magnetic and pop off, making it easy to customize your setup based on your preferences.

The G8 Plus is slightly heavier than the original G8 due to its added 1000mAh battery, but the weight is well-balanced and doesn’t lead to the same hand fatigue that comes from holding a bulkier device like the Steam Deck. Pairing it with my phone was a breeze—just turn the controller on, and the flashing GameSir logo button signals it's ready to pair. My Samsung found it quickly, and I appreciate how seamlessly Bluetooth works when there’s no hassle involved.

The GameSir logo button also doubles as an indicator for which device it’s paired with, glowing yellow for Android, blue for iOS, and red if paired with a Switch. Speaking of the Switch, the G8 Plus includes a 6-axis gyroscope—something the USB-C model lacks. Along with dual motors for vibration, this makes the G8 Plus a better value at the same $79.99 price point.

The controller also features a rubberized housing for your phone, ensuring it stays secure without slipping during gameplay. Thanks to Bluetooth, the G8 Galileo Plus is compatible with more devices than the USB-C version. Many marketing images highlight its use with folding phones, a feature many mobile controllers don’t support. While I didn’t have a folding phone to test, it’s assured to fit most models.

The rear of the controller includes two remappable buttons, which is a great feature, especially for games that require repetitive movements. Being able to remap controls makes it easier on your thumbs, enhancing comfort during longer gaming sessions.

While the GameSir app provides useful options for mapping touch controls to buttons, I found the onboard controls sufficient for quickly and easily remapping the rear buttons. However, the app is still handy, particularly if your main focus is mobile gaming.

GameSir G8 Plus: What's not so good

As with the original G8 Galileo, the triggers do not provide the satisfying tactile feedback I personally prefer, producing a hollow sound when pressed quickly and repeatedly. Personally, I like triggers that have a more substantial feel, but I understand that having them this way keeps the controller weight limited.

There's also the potential issue of compatibility with phones that have large, protruding rear cameras, like the Google Pixel 9 Pro. In such cases, the controller may not sit flush because its design fully encompasses the device.

Additionally, since this is a Bluetooth controller, it adds another device to remember to keep charged if I want to use it, as opposed to the convenient plug-and-play functionality of a USB-C device. Unfortunately, if your phone's charging port is covered, you can't charge your phone while using the controller. This is a notable drawback compared to the original G8, which offers pass-through charging.

GameSir G8 Plus: The Competition

The Galileo G8 Plus closely resembles another controller I tried last year, the PowerA MOGA XP7-X. To address the charging issue, the MOGA XP7-X included the ability to charge your device wirelessly, but this feature wasn’t implemented very well and lacked consistency. I actually prefer that Galileo opts to leave out this feature if it helps keep costs down. The PowerA MOGA XP7-X retails for $20 more and does not include hall-effect technology, which makes its $99.99 price tag hard to justify.

For those seeking greater portability, the Turtle Beach Atom is another excellent option. It connects via Bluetooth and can compactly clasp together into a carry case, making it a more travel-friendly choice if you’re specifically looking for a controller designed for on-the-go gaming.

Of course, if you really want to push the boat out, the Razer Kishi Ultra certainly delivers, but you'll pay a steep price of $149.99 for that luxury. This controller features USB-C connectivity, RGB Chroma lighting, haptic feedback, and generally higher-quality components. However, that $149.99 price tag can be hard to swallow. Personally, I believe GameSir offers much better value for money at this lower price point.

GameSir G8 Galileo Plus: Should you buy? 

You should buy the GameSir G8 Galileo Plus if ...

You should not buy the GameSir G8 Galileo Plus if ...

In conclusion, the GameSir G8 Galileo Plus is an excellent choice for mobile gamers seeking a controller that provides a console-like experience. It features several small improvements over the original model and offers broader compatibility at the same price point. With its ergonomic design, hall-effect technology, and compatibility with various smartphone sizes (excluding folding phones), it stands out among competing brands. Given its affordability, it’s a clear choice for Xbox Cloud Gaming, earning our recommendation for enhancing the overall gaming experience in hand. 

What you need to know

• "Genshin Impact" is a wildly popular action RPG game in the gatcha subgenre, and it's heading to Xbox Series X|S on November 20, 2024.
• The game has been exclusive to PlayStation, Windows PC, and mobile devices up until now, but developer HoyoVerse is partnering up with Xbox Game Pass to sweeten the deal.
• Revealed to us directly, HoYoverse says that Genshin Impact will yield in-game bundles day one for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers, as well as in subsequent version updates (think similar to seasons.)
• It will not require Xbox Game Pass Core (Xbox Live Gold) to play on Xbox Series X|S, as it is a free-to-play title.
• The game isn't coming to Xbox One sadly, but it will be available there via Xbox Game Pass Ultimate via Xbox Cloud Gaming.

After a long wait, Genshin Impact is finally heading to Xbox on November 20, 2024. 

Genshin Impact is a wildly successful action RPG from Shanghai developer HoYoverse, also known for Honkai Star Rail and Zenless Zone Zero. As part of the "gatcha" subgenre, players battle across a huge open world and collect character heroes either by grinding missions and quests, or by gambling in-game currency purchased via microtransactions. 

Genshin Impact has generated hundreds of millions for its developer since its launch, and has received mountains of high-quality post-launch updates for free, solidifying its place at the apex of the genre. The game's absence from Xbox was notable, particularly given the game's popularity with younger cohorts. I wrote previously how the lack of Genshin Impact was potentially alienating a generation from Xbox, and it seems Microsoft agreed. Better late than never, eh? 

To make up for the wait, Microsoft and HoYoverse are partnering up to deliver some extra benefits for Genshin Impact players on Xbox Series X|S via Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, in details shared with us earlier today. 

A HoYoverse  spokesperson elaborated, "Genshin Impact is a free-to-play game. You do not need to purchase Game Pass Ultimate or Core to play the game in Co-Op Mode. Players with a Game Pass Ultimate subscription can receive in-game bundles upon the game's launch and after subsequent version updates, as well as play Genshin Impact on Xbox Cloud Gaming."

Xbox's website had a note on it that said Genshin Impact required Xbox Game Pass Core (Xbox Live Gold) to play online this week, but the note there is a display error. Genshin Impact will not require a paywall to play online on Xbox, similar to other free-to-play titles like Fortnite or Overwatch 2. HoyoVerse also confirmed that Genshin Impact will also be available via Xbox Cloud Gaming. 

Genshin Impact is targeting Xbox Series X|S consoles exclusively, but Xbox One users will be able to access the game via Xbox Cloud Gaming, but only with an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription. 

It remains to be seen exactly what the Genshin Impact Xbox Game Pass Ultimate bundles will contain. It could be anything from basic consumables to premium Primogems, or maybe even characters. We'll be sure to update you when we know more. 

Genshin Impact arrives on Xbox on November 20, 2024

It took us a while to get here, but they say late is better than never. When it comes to mega blockbusters like Genshin Impact, that couldn't be more true. 

Genshin Impact elevated the quality bar for free-to-play action RPGs on mobile. The genre has been popular for a long time in some regions, but the raw quality of Genshin Impact has made the title impossible to ignore. Its subsequent games like Honkai Star Rail and Zenless Zone Zero have also been megahits in their own right, leading the charge for a new generation of truly universal cross-platform games, running across every device. 

RELATED: Genshin Impact marketing goes big for Xbox

Genshin Impact is really a glimpse into what a "dream" game might be for service-oriented Microsoft, whose titles like Sea of Thieves and Forza Horizon have yet to really make a splash on mobile. Microsoft has however found a ton of success recently with Age of Empires Mobile, and also has new mobile projects cooking at World of Warcraft developer Blizzard Entertainment, too. 

Hopefully the Xbox Game Pass tie-in for Genshin Impact will be good enough to bring new users into the service — something Microsoft has been incredibly eager to achieve since its gaming "Netflix" was born. 

What you need to know

• Microsoft says Apple doesn't play fair with its stringent guidelines, which continue to prevent Xbox Cloud Gaming from coming to the App Store.
• The tech giant calls for more changes, including scrapping Apple's In-App Purchase guideline.
• Apple claims that the highlighted issues aren't preventing cloud gaming services from existing on the App Store, and further cites the success of other developers that it helped to achieve. 

It seems like Microsoft and Apple are constantly wrapped up in battles. First, it was the race for search dominance, with Microsoft indicating it was ready to part with up to $15 billion to attract the deal Google has with Apple to make Bing the default search engine across its tech stack. However, Apple seems contented with its current arrangement with Google despite Microsoft's efforts, including offering its search engine for free.

Until recently, gaming streaming services like Xbox Cloud Gaming were restricted to the web in iOS. This is after Apple made alterations to its App Store guidelines. As you may know, Apple was listed as a gatekeeper by the EU, forcing it to open its App Store to side-loading and third-party storefronts, promoting fair competition within digital platforms.

As such, through regulation, the European Commission created a new avenue for Microsoft to grow its Xbox Cloud Gaming service on iOS. However, the iPhone maker found a way to wiggle itself out of the tight spot by creating several bottlenecks, including hidden tasks for developers building apps that aren't fully tying themselves to Apple's ecosystem.

Microsoft Gaming President Sarah Bond referred to Apple's new rules as "a step in the wrong direction," while asking the company to "listen to feedback." To this end, Microsoft and NVIDIA are yet to bring their cloud gaming apps to iOS, and Microsoft has provided a detailed account highlighting its reservations. 

While making submissions to the UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), the tech giant admitted that Apple has made several changes to its App Store guidelines. However, Microsoft stated the changes weren't enough to natively support Xbox's Cloud Gaming app on iOS (via The Verge). 

Why is Xbox Cloud Gaming not available in iOS?

According to Microsoft, Apple's new guidelines for its App Store still feature several roadblocks, preventing it from running its Cloud Gaming app on iOS. The company highlighted Apple's requirement to avail Xbox Cloud Gaming's content, subscriptions, and features directly within an iOS app as an in-app purchase (IAP) as a major deterrent. The company further indicated:

"In fact, Apple’s IAP commission fee is set at a level that is neither economically sustainable nor justifiable. The 30 percent commission fee makes it impossible for Microsoft to effectively monetize its cloud gaming service offering, given that Guideline 3.1.3(b) prevents different content, subscriptions or features (including consumables in multiplatform games) being offered to iOS users (as compared to the content, subscriptions and features offered on other platforms).

As observed by the CMA in its Mobile Ecosystem market study, the 30 percent fee imposed by Apple on IAPs is the result of a lack of competition in the distribution of native iOS apps."

Further into its submissions, Microsoft indicated that Apple's outrageous requirements would prompt third-party game developers to recode their games to meet the IAP threshold.

Microsoft highlighted Apple's guideline restricting developers from linking outside the iOS app for subscriptions as a major issue. For context, the iPhone maker only allows reader apps to link outside, but cloud gaming apps don't meet this criteria. Apple indicates it never allowed cloud gaming apps to take advantage of its Reader Rule. It further states that cloud gaming developers shouldn't use it as the premise for their arguments about in-app purchases.

To this end, the CMA is investigating the matter by assessing the distribution of cloud gaming services in app stores across the UK. Several elaborate measures and policies could be implemented to address the highlighted issues, including expanding Apple's Reader Rule to Cloud Gaming apps. This would allow developers to leverage their in-app payment systems on iOS.

Apple argues that it supports Xbox Cloud Gaming on web apps and claims that Microsoft hasn't touched base with it, despite making several alterations to its guidelines:

"It is notable that while CMA cites Microsoft’s concerns in the Working Paper, Microsoft has chosen not to engage with Apple on cloud gaming apps since Apple’s changes to the Guideline. This lack of engagement comes despite Apple’s affirmative outreach on new opportunities and tools for cloud gaming apps on iOS.”

Apple claims that its IPA guideline isn't the issue that's preventing cloud gaming developers from bringing their games to iOS. It used the opportunity to mention a small developer called Antstream, which shipped its first gaming streaming service to iOS earlier this year.

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It's hard to talk about Xbox Cloud Gaming without mentioning Razer. The Kishi was among the first to make the service easily accessible on a smartphone, and many versions of the iconic controller have come to market since then. For a good reason, too, it's a fantastic mobile controller.

You can now get the Razer Kishi V2 Pro for nearly a third of its retail price, from $149.99 to $59.99 at Woot (owned by Amazon and acts as an outlet). You can enjoy playing your Xbox and mobile games with one of the best controllers for the job. A few models and compatibility types are available for sale on both Woot and Amazon, so read on for the deals.

✅Great for: An advanced controller experience for Xbox Cloud gaming on your mobile, this is the Razer Kishi V2 but with haptic feedback for more immersion.

❌Don't buy if You have an iPhone; this Xbox edition is only compatible with Android.  

👀 How to enable Haptics for Xbox Cloud: Razer help

💰Price Check: $74.95 at Amazon

✅Great for: Playing xCloud Gaming titles with tight and satisfying controls.

❌Don't buy if: You have large hands, in which case you may find the GameSir G8 Galileo more comfortable. It's $79 at Amazon.

🤖Android version: $79.99 at Amazon

💰Price check: $114.69 at Walmart

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Why is the Razer Kishi V2 Pro for Xbox selling for cheaper than the Razer Kishi V2?

The Razer Kishi V2 Pro is cheaper for a couple of reasons despite its higher MSRP. Firstly, it is the only model that carries the Xbox branding, so while this will appeal to Xbox gamers, it may lack the universal appeal of the other models for which consumers may want to buy purely for mobile gaming. Secondly, the offer is available through Woot, which, while owned by Amazon, tends to offer much cheaper, outlet-style electronics prices, but deals that are much more short-lived and go out of stock fast.

Both Razer Kishi models on sale work effectively the same, splitting the controller over two panels and attaching it to your mobile to turn it into your own gaming handheld. At a fraction of the cost of getting a Logitech G Cloud, Steam Deck, or ROG Ally. If you play mobile titles like Call of Duty Mobile or Diablo Immortal, this controller will dramatically improve your experience over using the touchscreen.

Both controllers have pleasing microswitch face buttons for that clicky feedback, and the material of the controllers is lightweight enough not to be a burden through long gaming sessions. You can also charge your phone with pass-through charging and use the built-in Nexus app to organize all of your games outside of Xbox Cloud Gaming. We have a full review of the Razer Kishi V2, giving it 4.5 out of 5 stars. The V2 Pro has a few improvements, such as the haptic feedback and audio jack, both of which are also features in the newest model, the Razer Kishi Ultra, but at a small fraction of the cost.

Out of the two on offer over Amazon Prime days, I'd definitely choose the Razer Kishi V2 Pro that Woot has on offer, but if you prefer the look of this one go quick as their deals are notoriously shortlived. If you want to buy a new controller for your Xbox, we also have a run down on all the Xbox controller deals in the sales. 

What you need to know

• Microsoft recently announced a partnership with Amazon to provide Xbox Cloud Gaming through certain Fire TV Stick devices.
• Starting today, players can download the Xbox Cloud Gaming app through a Fire TV Stick 4K Max or Fire TV Stick 4K. 
• Xbox Cloud Gaming requires an active Xbox Game Pass Ultimate membership and a Bluetooth-enabled gaming controller.

There's a new way to play Xbox games. 

Players can now download the Xbox Cloud Gaming beta app through specific Amazon Fire TV Stick models, Microsoft shared on Monday through an ad spoofing horror films. 

The company previously announced a partnership with Amazon that would allow players to use certain Fire TV Sticks to access Xbox Cloud Gaming, a move that came as something of a surprise given Microsoft and Amazon's historic hostility as Cloud rivals. Right now, Xbox Cloud Gaming is available through the Fire TV Stick 4K Max and Fire TV Stick 4K models.

What do I need to play Xbox Cloud Gaming on my Amazon Fire TV Stick?

In addition to one of the aforementioned Fire TV Stick models, anyone who wants to jump into Xbox Cloud Gaming will need a Bluetooth-enabled gaming controller, such as an Xbox Series X|S controller or PlayStation 5 DualSense controller. Players will also need to be subscribed to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate in order to access the game streaming service. Finally, players will naturally need a modern monitor or TV to plug in the Fire TV Stick and actually play games. 

Xbox Cloud Gaming includes a number of titles, including Xbox first-party games like Fallout 4, Sea of Thieves, Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2, and Starfield from across Xbox Game Studios and Bethesda Softworks.

Analysis: A neat expansion of Xbox services

This is cool to see, and it's also good that it's rolling out so quickly after the initial announcement. Xbox Cloud Gaming updates stalled out for a couple of years, with Microsoft slowing progress down to essentially nothing while it was embroiled in its efforts to acquire Activision Blizzard. 

With that gargantuan task firmly in the rear-view mirror, updates have started up again, such as seeing some games available through Xbox Cloud Gaming get mouse and keyboard support.

I don't see this move to bring Xbox Cloud Gaming to Fire TV Sticks suddenly resulting in millions upon millions of new players, but given the work that is once again going into Xbox Cloud Gaming as a whole, it makes a great deal of sense as an expansion point for the service. 

It's also interesting to see Microsoft snuggling up closer with Amazon like this. I do have to wonder if the success of the Prime Video Fallout series (which is coming back for a second season) played a role in discussions.

What you need to know

• Xbox Cloud Gaming is a $15 per month service bundled with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate that lets you stream hundreds of games to mobile, PC, and the web. 
• As of right now, to get Xbox Cloud Gaming on a TV, you need to use an attached Xbox console (which can run games natively anyway), or own an oft-pricey Samsung TV. 
• Today, Microsoft and Amazon announced a partnership to bring the Xbox Cloud Gaming app to Amazon Fire TV devices, vastly expanding the accessibility of the platform. 

Xbox Cloud Gaming is a great option for those who don't fancy shelling out for a pricey video game console or gaming PC, offering hundreds of games for a $15 per month fee bundled with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. Playable on Android devices, iOS via the web at xbox.com/play, Xbox consoles, and Samsung TVs, Xbox Cloud Gaming streams Xbox games over the internet, bypassing the need for powerful local hardware. 

Xbox games are still designed for television screens, however, and playing many cloud games on a phone can be a fiddly affair, even with the best Xbox cloud gaming mobile controllers. Even if you don't have an Xbox console, Xbox Cloud Games play best on a TV, but up until now, only Samsung TVs had the privilege. Samsung TVs with the necessary gaming hub feature can be quite pricey too, but what if there was a cheaper way?

Now, you can use a $40 Amazon Fire TV stick and connect it straight up to any monitor, and instantly gain access to Xbox Cloud Gaming. That's right, the big tech cloud rivals are unexpectedly partnering up for Xbox Cloud Gaming, offering a native solution for the first time. 

"The expansion of Xbox gaming to Fire TV devices offers players another option for enjoying their favorite games using devices they already own," said Ashley McKissick, who leads Xbox cloud gaming as Xbox CVP for Xbox experiences. "For those who don’t own an Xbox console, this provides an affordable and convenient way to get started. With Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, there's something for every type of player. We look forward to having more people join the Xbox gaming community."

"We’re committed to making it easy for customers to access their favorite entertainment experiences with Fire TV," said Daniel Rausch, vice president of Fire TV and Alexa. "We’re excited to work with Microsoft to bring the Xbox app to select Fire TV devices so customers can enjoy a vast library of high-quality games, allowing them to play amazing titles without the need for a console."

Initially, Xbox Cloud Gaming will be available on the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K and Amazon Fire Stick 4K Max models, before potentially expanding to the cheaper HD Amazon Fire Stick Lite model later on. The slightly more expensive Max model supports Wi-Fi 6E, which should give it an edge in connectivity over the 4K Wi-Fi 6 model, should your home network solution support Wi-Fi 6 and 6E, that is. 

It seems that Xbox Cloud Gaming on Amazon Fire TV will be available in every region where Xbox Cloud Gaming is currently available, too. Naturally, you will also need a Bluetooth Xbox Series X|S controller to connect up and play via your Fire TV, too. 

An unlikely partnership in the cloud

Amazon and Microsoft are often bitter cloud rivals when it comes to business service applications, going as far to sue each other to gain favor for lucrative governmental contracts. Amazon Gaming and Xbox seem a little more chill, though. Microsoft partners extensively with Amazon's Twitch and Prime Gaming platforms, for example, and Amazon is bringing its New World MMO to Xbox later this year. At the end of the day, it's all just business, and this partnership stands to be mutually beneficial for both. 

Amazon has its own nascent cloud gaming platform dubbed Amazon Luna, and you'd think they'd want to proliferate their own service on their own hardware. But cloud gaming is hard, and Microsoft already owns all the pieces of that puzzle since picking up Activision-Blizzard, Bethesda, and various other major global franchises. Microsoft has already started supporting Amazon Luna with its content too anyway, adding Fallout titles to the platform. Of course, Amazon has been instrumental in causing the Fallout franchise to utterly explode in popularity thanks to the Amazon Fallout TV show. So, I'd say that relationships between the two firms are probably quite peachy right now. 

What is more interesting is the fact Microsoft is still intent on growing Xbox Cloud Gaming. For a time, it felt as though Microsoft might've been backing away from it. Server capacity has still been an issue in some regions, although Microsoft has gradually worked to repair the delta. NVIDIA GeForce Now has also given Microsoft incredibly strong competition in this space, given that its tech is just so good that it regularly beats Xbox Cloud Gaming for latency and connection stability. Although recently, I've found NVIDIA GeForce Now has had some queue issues of its own.

It was already sort of possible to side-load Xbox Game Pass onto a Fire TV, but being able to get it straight from Amazon's app store will deliver it to a whole new audience. It's also fortuitous timing, since my colleague Zac Bowden discovered a patent for Microsoft's own cancelled Fire TV-like Xbox Keystone just yesterday. 

Though, with Microsoft adding an entire new platform into the mix with Amazon Fire TV, I do wonder how server capacities might be impacted. I also wonder what investments Microsoft is making to bring the latency of their experiences up to par with their PC-first brethren. Xbox Cloud Gaming servers are built using Xbox Series X hardware, after all, which aren't necessarily spec'd with video encoding in mind.

In any case, it's great to see Microsoft isn't backing down here. I'm eager for more information on exactly when we'll be able to bring our own games to Xbox Cloud Gaming, though.

What you need to know

• GameSir, experts in console and mobile gaming controllers have launched a new portable controller with a split 2-piece design.
• The GameSir X4 Aileron controller accommodates most Android devices, hall-effect stick, microswitch buttons and customizable lighting. 
• The GameSir X4 Aileron retails for $99.99 and available now from Amazon or direct through GameSir.

If you already game on your mobile, whether that be using Xbox Cloud Gaming, or a specific mobile game like Diablo Immortal, you'll probably already be familiar with GameSir. GameSir has managed to carve out quite a niche for itself when it comes to mobile controllers, and we've reviewed a bunch of them favorably here at Windows Central. The latest in the range is the most portable the brand has made yet, the GameSir X4 Aileron, which launched this week, and retails for $99 on Amazon.

I couldn't help but be interested with the GameSir X4 Aileron when it landed in my inbox, as it does bear a resemblence to one of my favorite ever mobile gaming controllers, the Turtle Beach Atom. That being said, the GameSir X4 Aileron has some crucial differences and design choices, packing some high quality components under the hood. Here's the full specs: 

As you can see from the spec list, GameSir has yet again managed to pack hall effect technology into this, along with microswitch face buttons. This is impressive at the $99 MSRP, and it does mean the controller should last longer with little to no stick drift.

I recently reviewed the GameSir G8 Galileo, which had the same sticks and was very pleasant to use, so I've high hopes for the 4 Aileron too. The controller connects to Android with Bluetooth, so while you do need to remember to charge it (which isn't a concern for USB-C connectivity controllers) it does open the controller up to much larger mobile models. As well as being compatible with a wider range of mobile devices, the snap magnetic design and included hard case make this a great controller for traveling, as it won't take up much room in your bag. Something I always stress about when traveling.  

And now for the fun bit, the anti-friction rings around the sticks light up! I assume if you want to save battery life on this, you'll probably turn this off, but it's a fun touch, and what gamer doesn't like a bit of cheeky lighting on their accessories? The split design also allows for phone cooling accessories to be fitted to the back, something I didn't even know was a thing until I saw the promotional shots of this controller.

We'll soon have a unit to review and see how it compares to the other controllers on our Best Controllers for Xbox Cloud Gaming list.

Turtle Beach is one of gaming's forerunning manufacturers of high-quality third-party accessories designed to take your gaming experience to the next level at affordable prices. One shining example of their products is the Turtle Beach Atom mobile gaming controller, which is currently on Amazon at a 30% discount, reducing its MSRP from $79.99 to $55.58. 

✅Perfect for: Gamers looking for a controller suited for mobile games on your phone and Xbox Cloud Gaming while being easy to store for long-distance travel.

❌Avoid it if: You want to play while charging your device at the same time and if you're put off by the potential input lag from its Bluetooth features.

💰Price check: $79.99 at Best Buy

Why should you buy the Turtle Beach Atom?

Our own Jennifer Young reviewed the Turtle Beach Atom in 2023 and praised it for being a uniquely designed controller that's functional and incredibly comfortable to use. This controller by Turtle Beach features a bulky yet stylish design that can accommodate players with large hands and provide comfort while gaming for many hours at a time. 

The Turtle Beach Atom also includes a two-piece magnetic clip system that can combine the two halves of the controller into a small compact shape so it can be easily stored while traveling. In addition, the controller can be attached to a smartphone without removing its protective case and has a 20-hour battery life so it be used for a long time.

That being said, there are a couple of drawbacks to the Turtle Beach Atom. For starters, the triggers are somewhat spongy, which can cause the game to misregister their inputs on occasion and make games like first-person shooters harder to play. In addition, this controller can only be charged while in its compact travel mode, so you can't charge it while playing games at the same time. Also, the Bluetooth latency may cause some input lag while playing certain games.

However, these are minor blemishes on an otherwise fantastic mobile gaming controller that can be yours right now for a more affordable price over at Amazon. Amazon is currently selling the Turtle Beach Atom for $55.88, reducing its MSRP of $79.99 down by 30% for a short limited time.

So, if you want to get your hands on one of the best Xbox Cloud Gaming controllers to play the best Xbox games on the go, get this exclusive deal before the controller sells out.

The Steam Deck has a huge library of available games, but sometimes I just wish I could play my Xbox games on it. In the case of Fallout 76 for example, I already own the game on Xbox and really don't want to have to purchase it again just to play on the Steam Deck, let alone lose my save as the game doesn't have cross-save.

Fortunately, there is a solution for playing at least some Xbox games on the Steam Deck, and it doesn't require you to install Windows. It does, however, require an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, as you're going to install Xbox Cloud Gaming on the Steam Deck and you'll need at least the Ultimate tier to be able to access all the the games.

Here's how to install Xbox Cloud Gaming on the Steam Deck. You can use the on-screen keyboard to follow this tutorial, but it's far easier if you connect a keyboard and mouse using Bluetooth or a Steam Deck dock like the JSAUX dock. 

Install Microsoft Edge on your Steam Deck

1. Press the Steam button and Power to go to Desktop mode
2. Go to the Discover app and click Steam + X to bring up the onscreen keyboard and search for Microsoft Edge
3. Hit install
4. Click the bottom left Steam icon (Application launcher) navigate to Internet
5. Right-click (left trigger if you don't have a mouse) on Microsoft Edge and Add to Steam

Give Microsoft Edge access to controller inputs in Gaming mode 

1. Click the Application Launcher again and go to System > Konsole
2. In the command prompt window type the following

flatpak --user override --filesystem=/run/udev:ro com.microsoft.Edge

3. Note that all spaces above are intentional and need to be included in your command
4. Click enter
5. Type exit and enter to close the window

Add Microsoft Edge to your Steam Library

1. Launch Steam while in Desktop mode
2. Find Microsoft Edge and right-click to select Properties
3. Change the name to 'Xbox Cloud Gaming'
4. Scroll down to Launch Options
5. There is a lot of code here, you are going to type this extra code in AFTER it, so after the  @@u @@ type or copy-paste:

-- window-size=1024,640 --force-device-scale-factor=1.25 --device-scale-factor=1.25 --kiosk “https://www.xbox.com/play”

It is crucial that you include a space before pasting this text, so there should be a gap between the last @ and first -

Apply controller layout

1. Right-click on your newly created 'Xbox Cloud Gaming'
2. Click Manage, then Controller layout
3. Click Next a couple of times to get through the service messages
4. Next to the default button layout, click the arrow to browse all configurations
5. Scroll down to select Gamepad with Mouse Trackpad
6. Click X to apply layout

Making Xbox Cloud Gaming look like an installed app

Ok so now you want it to look like an installed app, or you can rock with the unsightly grey icons. You do you.

If you do want it to look aesthetically good, you're going to have to put the images in yourself. The images you need are here on Microsoft's website and will automatically download so either open  this link in the browser on your Steam Deck and save, or transfer to your SD card.

The files will save as JPG, you need to change to PNG.

1. Open your Steam library
2. Right-click on your newly created 'Xbox Cloud Gaming' and select Properties
3. Click in the empty square next to the name and navigate to wherever you dropped the Icon image file to change the icon
4. Right-click on where the Banner image should be and click 'Set custom background'
5. Find the Banner image you saved
6. Right-click the banner image again and click Set Custom Logo and find the Capsule image you saved

You'll want to do this for your icon in 'recently played' too, so make sure you launch the Xbox Game Pass icon at least once, then go to your recently played in the library, right-click and follow the same process. You may need to do this a couple of times for both portrait and landscape versions of 'recently played.' It's a pain, but it's worth it for the look!

Now use Xbox Cloud Gaming in Gaming mode

Now you will find the icon for Xbox Cloud Gaming in your 'non-Steam games' when you are playing in Gaming mode, you'll just be prompted to sign in. 

Enjoy your Xbox Cloud games on the Steam Deck

While we wait in anticipation for signs of an Xbox handheld, our closest solution at the moment is either Xbox PC gaming on the ROG Ally and other gaming handhelds or just using Xbox Cloud Gaming from your mobile with one of the best controllers for Xcloud. It's not perfect, but we're told it won't be long before we can play our owned games on Xbox Cloud Gaming too. Until then, I hope this guide has helped you access at least some of the Xbox titles you want to play on the Steam Deck. 

What you need to know

• Microsoft recently began adding mouse and keyboard support to a number of games through Xbox Cloud Gaming, such as Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition.
• Another batch of games now support mouse and keyboard controls through Xbox Cloud Gaming.
• This latest batch includes games like Quake 2 Remastered and State of Decay 2.

More Xbox games are now playable with mouse and keyboard through the cloud. 

An update to Xbox Cloud Gaming brings mouse and keyboard support for several more games, including Quake 2 Remastered and Undead Labs' State of Decay 2, as shared via Xbox Support. You can see the full list of games that now feature mouse and keyboard support through Xbox Cloud Gaming below:

• Cities: Skylines - Mayor’s Edition
• Cities: Skylines - Remastered
• House Flipper
• Inkulinati (Game Preview)
• Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord
• Norco
• Pikuniku
• Quake
• Quake 2
• Slime Rancher 2
• State of Decay 2
• Terraria
• The Sims 4
• Valheim (Game Preview)

Microsoft first began adding mouse and keyboard support for Xbox Cloud Gaming titles a few weeks ago, with an initial batch of games that included Fortnite as well as a number of first-party games like Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition, Halo Infinite, and Pentiment.

Xbox Cloud Gaming requires players to be subscribed to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, as well as having a compatible Android or iOS device, a Windows PC, Xbox Series X|S, or Xbox One console to stream games to.

What's next for Xbox Cloud Gaming?

While Microsoft has been working on Xbox Cloud Gaming (once referred to as xCloud) for years now, the program was essentially put on ice for a time, with very little to no investment in 2023 as the company was embroiled in regulatory headaches over the then-pending acquisition of Activision Blizzard King.

At the time, some regulators such as the CMA in the U.K. were enamored with the idea that Cloud gaming would allow Microsoft to massively leapfrog its competitors and seize control of the gaming industry. Microsoft made a number of agreements to assuage concerns, including a massive deal allowing anyone in the EU to stream an Xbox first-party game they purchase digitally through any Cloud gaming service they choose.

Since the Activision Blizzard King purchase was finalized, we've seen Microsoft steadily reinvest in Xbox Cloud Gaming, with Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer stating that the company intends to allow players to stream games they own this year without having to be subscribed to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.

Analysis: Cloud support has started up again

I'm expecting regular announcements with new batches of games that support mouse and keyboard input over the cloud in the months ahead. Hopefully we'll also get updates on other features, such as the ability to stream games you own without a subscription. 

While it's not technically part of Cloud gaming, I also hope we hear more about the planned Xbox mobile store this year, as Microsoft's approach to native mobile games will hugely inform its plans and abilities surrounding Xbox Cloud Gaming.