Xbox Project xCloud hands-on: Magic meets game streaming

Microsoft has debuted Xbox Project xCloud, kicking off its first invite-only preview for its game-streaming vision. Bringing full-fledged console gaming to phones, the platform sets out to mobilize its Xbox One successes, taking top titles on-the-go via the cloud. First limited to Android devices, it's a taste of future Xbox plans, bolstering its existing portfolio of services like Xbox Game Pass.

First impressions: 24 hours with Xbox Project xCloud Game Streaming

We've spent a few days down the Project xCloud pipeline, trialing Gears 5, Halo 5: Guardians, Sea of Thieves, and Killer Instinct. Leading technology has helped Microsoft secure clarity and fluidity without compromising latency, framed as "pure magic" in our recent hands-on preview. While cloud streaming is far from proven in gaming, Xbox Game Streaming already shows a capable implementation, in its pre-release state.

We captured a fraction of our Project xCloud experience so far, providing a deeper dive into performance and presentation via the new Xbox Game Streaming app.

Project xCloud remains an in-progress venture for 2019, as Microsoft lays its foundations, with help from fast-growing cloud reach. It's still unclear when the service will launch in an official capacity, and how the platform will be pitched from a commercial standpoint.

In the meantime, Project xCloud Preview registration remains live via Microsoft, providing your hands-on opportunity with the latest Xbox innovation. Currently limited to Android devices, you'll need a Bluetooth-compatible Xbox controller, with a recommended controller phone mount.