Imagine you didn’t need to install a game on your gaming console, and you could instantly play any game on any device. That’s what you get with Xbox Cloud Gaming. You can play Sea of Thieves, Halo Infinite, and other Xbox exclusives on your smartphone, computer, and even smart TVs. If you want to use your Virginia sports betting app on your smartphone, you can continue playing on your PC or Xbox without losing your game progress.

So, how exactly does Xbox Cloud Gaming work, and what do you need to get started? Keep reading to find out.

What Is Xbox Cloud Gaming?

Xbox Cloud Gaming is a cloud gaming service from Microsoft. It offers over 400 games that you can stream on your device without downloading. Think of it as Netflix but for video games.

While the service does offer some free games like Fortnite, you need an Xbox Pass Ultimate to access its vast library. Unlike traditional gaming, Xbox Cloud Gaming does away with the need for high-end PCs, consoles, and smartphones.

Although the service is still in beta, it works incredibly well, allowing you to play with friends across different platforms. You just need to make sure that your internet connection is fast enough.

How Xbox Cloud Gaming Works

Xbox Cloud Gaming switches game processing from your device to Microsoft’s cloud infrastructure. When you start a game, it runs on remote servers, and the visuals are then streamed to your device. This lets you enjoy excellent graphics even on a low-end gaming device in real time.

If you’re just getting started, you’re going to need the following:

Xbox Cloud Gaming App

You can access Xbox Cloud Gaming either through a browser or your Xbox app. The app is available under various names depending on your device. If you’re using a smartphone, you can download the Xbox Game Pass app from Apple App Store or Google Play. On Windows, the app is listed as Xbox, and you can grab it from the Windows store.

If you’re using an Apple device, you need to visit xbox.com/play using Edge, Chrome, or Safari browsers to play. At the moment, Microsoft doesn’t support cloud gaming on its iOS, iPadOS, and macOS apps.

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Subscription

As mentioned earlier, you’re also going to need an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription. This will set you back $16.99, but you can also get a 14-day trial for a single dollar. In addition to Xbox Cloud Gaming, the Game Pass Ultimate includes a free EA Play membership.

Controller Support

Xbox Cloud Gaming supports both touch control and Xbox controllers. You can also use some third-party controllers, but for the best gaming experience, you should opt for “Official Xbox” or “Designed for Xbox” controllers.

What Devices Can You Use With Xbox Cloud Gaming?

One of the key strengths of Xbox Cloud Gaming is that it allows you to play on most devices. For instance, you can use the service on Android and Apple smartphones and tablets as well as Mac and PC.

You can stream games on your Xbox One or Xbox X/S. On top of that, Xbox Cloud gaming works with Steam Deck, some smart TVs, and even virtual reality headsets such as Meta Quest.

What Games Can You Play With Xbox Cloud Gaming?

With Xbox Cloud Gaming, you can gain instant access to hundreds of games from Xbox Game Studios and various third-party developers like Epic Games and Electronic Arts.

Some popular titles available on Xbox Cloud Gaming are Halo Infinite, Forza Horizon 5, Gears 5, Minecraft, Sea of Thieves, Cyberpunk 2077, Red Dead Redemption 2, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, and FIFA 22.