Highlights
- Xbox One gamers can still play Starfield through cloud gaming on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, despite the game being exclusive to PC and Xbox Series X/S consoles.
- A reliable and fast internet connection is necessary for playing Starfield on Xbox One via cloud gaming, although it may still not be the ideal way to experience the game.
- Xbox Game Pass subscribers will get to play Starfield on launch at no additional cost, but can shell out $34.99 to get early access.
Starfield will technically be playable on Xbox One thanks to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate's cloud gaming features. Bethesda's massive new open world sci-fi RPG is seemingly too much for the Xbox One to handle, which is why the game is releasing only on PC and Xbox Series X/S consoles.
Even though the Xbox Series X/S consoles have been available for three years now, it's safe to say that there are some Xbox One gamers out there that have yet to upgrade for whatever reason. Those individuals may be disappointed that they are missing out on Starfield's big launch, but as it so happens, they can technically still play the game on Xbox One. The only thing they will need is an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription.
One of the perks of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is the ability to play games on the cloud, effectively making Xbox Series X Game Pass games playable on Xbox One consoles. This is certainly not the ideal way to play Starfield, as cloud gaming tech still has yet to be perfected, but for those that can't get an Xbox Series X in time for launch, it will be better than nothing. Of course, a reliable and fast internet connection will be necessary for anyone that plans to play Starfield on Xbox One through cloud gaming.
An Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription will not only give Xbox One gamers the chance to play Starfield through the cloud, but it will give them access to the game in general. Starfield is launching as a day one Xbox Game Pass game, meaning subscribers don't have to actually buy it for its $69.99 asking price to play it on launch day. However, those that want to play it a little earlier than its September 6 release date will definitely want to consider shelling out an extra $34.99.
Starfield's early access release date is September 1, with the game available to anyone that buys the Premium Edition or, if they're Xbox Game Pass subscribers, picks up the Premium Edition Upgrade. It's unclear if Starfield early access will apply to those hoping to play the game through the cloud as well, so Xbox One gamers should definitely keep that in mind.
To enjoy Starfield to its fullest, Xbox gamers will want to get a quality gaming PC or pick up an Xbox Series X or S console. While the Xbox Series S is definitely weaker than the Series S, Todd Howard himself has vouched for Starfield on Xbox Series S, so it should still be a quality experience on the cheaper system.
Starfield launches on September 6 for PC and Xbox Series X.