With Microsoft's Project xCloud in testing, we're already tantalizingly close to haveing full console-quality mobile gaming at our fingertips. However, where Microsoft stands ready to push the power offered by Xbox consoles anywhere you may be, the Nintendo Switch has arguably already perfected the form factor.
But what if you could combine the two?
That's a very real possibility with the help of Razer's new Junglecat controller. The Junglecat essentially looks like a clone of the Nintendo Switch's Joy-con setup, but with Razer flair. With the help of a special phone case (which is, unfortunately, limited to a few select phones), each side of the Junglecat can be removed and attached to your phone, essentially replicating the Switch experience.
While the Junglecat's form factor might invite derision because of its obvious nods to the Switch, why mess with a good formula? The Joy-Cons aren't necessarily the most comfortable controllers to use, but they're currently the best example we've seen of bringing console gaming to life on the go. When applied to xCloud, the experience get a lot closer to something some Xbox fans have been clamoring for for a while now: a portable Xbox.
There are some downsides here, of course. First, the case you have to use with the Junglecat is limited to the Razer Phone 2, Samsung Galaxy Note 9, and Galaxy S10+ for now (with the Huawei P30 Pro taking the Note 9's place outside of the U.S.). Though it's possible we could see Razer expand its range of supported phones, that severaly limits the Junglecat's potential here — though the Razer Phone 2 is a tempting option at $399 (opens in new tab).
There's also the fact that a lot of Xbox players might simply prefer to use what they're already familiar with: the Xbox One Wireless Controller. For anyone who counts themselves among the group, the already available controller mounts will work just fine and are much cheaper than the Junglecat's $100 price.
While neither Razer nor Microsoft have officially confirmed the Junglecat will work with xCloud, our sources have hinted it's likely in the works. Frankly, it'd be silly not to have the two pair up, because such a pairing would marry the best of Xbox's powerful hardware with the hardware experience Nintendo nailed with the Switch.
Ultimately, though, one could argue that this is a band-aid solution for a true portable Xbox of sorts. It does raise an interesting idea, though: What if Microsoft went all-in on its own Switch-like accessory, with broader compatibility, to pair with xCloud? It's highly unlikely, but a man can dream.
Would you use the Junglecat as your go-to setup for xCloud gaming? Let us know in the comments.
The Razer Junglecat is a mobile gaming controller that essentially turns your phone into a Switch.
The Razer Phone 2 is a solid deal at $400, and it could prove to be an excellent option for xCloud with tis 120Hz display.
Dan Thorp-Lancaster is the Editor in Chief for Windows Central. He began working with Windows Central as a news writer in 2014 and is obsessed with tech of all sorts. You can follow Dan on Twitter @DthorpL and Instagram @heyitsdtl. Got a hot tip? Send it to daniel.thorp-lancaster@futurenet.com.
