As Microsoft prepares for the launch of its next gen console later this year with Xbox Series X, the company is also double down on its streaming service, Project xCloud. Already, fans have learned that Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers will be getting access to this service for free. Microsoft is aiming to allow users to game where ever they want through mobile devices like tablets and even phones. The next step in this ambitious plan has finally been revealed earlier today.
In a new post on Xbox newswire, Kareem Choudhry laid the companies plans out in full for fans. Starting on September 15, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers will be getting access to over 100 games from the cloud on their Android phones or tablets. Microsoft considers this a beta launch to allow it to ensure platform stability and will be available in 22 markets first before scaling up to even more players and markets.
While the full list of games includes some big titles like Destiny 2, Sea of Thieves, Gears 5, and more. Microsoft also recently confirmed in its previous Games Showcase that new titles from Xbox Games Studios will be joining Game Pass day and date of launch, which now also includes Project xCloud as well. Choudhry also confirms that all of the experiences players have come to expect from the Xbox will be available through xCloud including friends lists, achievements, controller settings, and saved progress. Players can pick up where they left off in a game, no matter where they are.
The inclusion of cloud technology also gives players a few new options when gaming. As the post mentions, two people playing Sea of Thieves can technically play together in the same room on the same couch with one on the Xbox while the other sails along from a tablet. This also means that if the TV is occupied by a friend or family member, players can grab a mobile device or tablet and pick up where they left off, no reason to wait anymore.
New subscribers can still sign up for just $1 for the first month and then $14.99 each month after that. In order to get started with Project xCloud, players will need to download the Xbox Game Pass app from the Samsung Galaxy Store, Google Play Store, or the ONE Store.
Microsoft has also partnered with third party hardware accessory companies like Razer, PowerA, 8BitDo, and Nacon to develop a bunch of brand new accessories designed specifically for cloud gaming. This ranges from items like phone clips, travel controllers, and much more. Microsoft also went on to confirm that other options like the Xbox one Bluetooth Wireless and PlayStation DualShock 4 controllers will also work. A point of emphasis that the company has tried to highlight over the past few days, letting players continue to use accessories across multiple platforms.
Project xCloud launches in beta on September 15.