Microsoft Xbox Cloud Gaming enables streaming five years later

Gamers can now stream a limited catalog of games after Microsoft launched Xbox Cloud Gaming. The feature, first announced in 2019, is available to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers with a limited catalog of games. The feature’s Xbox console support is planned for 2025.

The emergence of video game streaming platforms such as Twitch and YouTube Gaming has popularized gaming culture among the larger population. Streaming gameplay has become a lucrative business, with many gaming stakeholders, such as Microsoft, adapting to accommodate the niche.

Microsoft launches Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta)

Stream your own game starts now with Xbox Cloud Gaming (beta)

We are excited to announce that 50 great games are now available for streaming with more on the way!

Learn more: https://t.co/GbW58kYXPP pic.twitter.com/TUFaR41AQC

— Xbox (@Xbox) November 20, 2024

Five years after making the initial announcement, Microsoft finally enabled Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers to stream select games they own via Xbox Cloud Gaming. First announced as Project xCloud in 2019, Microsoft followed up the project with another confirmation in 2022. However, the feature’s rollout was delayed several times. The delays were attributed to multiple infrastructure issues that limited development. With rumors first popping up over the last few weeks, Microsoft confirmed the leaks by announcing Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta) for a select list of regions and countries.

Microsoft also announced Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta) will support a wide range of devices. The new feature comes with support for PC, phones, tablets, and handhelds with access to a web browser. Phone and PC support extends to Android devices, iPhones, iPads, Macbooks, and Windows devices. Gamers can also use the Xbox app or the official Xbox streaming website to stream directly using supported VR headsets, Amazon Fire devices, and Samsung Smart TVs. The feature also supports wireless Bluetooth controllers and PC input devices (keyboard and mouse).

Xbox Cloud Gaming launched with a catalog of 50 compatible games. The launch will feature several popular games such as Baldur’s Gate 3, Assassin’s Creed Mirage, Cyberpunk 2077, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II (2022), Hogwarts Legacy, Mortal Kombat 1, and NBA 2K25. Support advised gamers to use 10 Mbps on mobile devices, 20 Mbps on consoles, PCs, and tablets, and 5Ghz WiFi or mobile data connection for best performance. The statement explained that gameplay on devices might be affected by factors such as user location and internet connection.

Speculation mounts over streaming launch

Microsoft announced the feature twice in 2019 and 2022 without having the end product to show. Over the same period, other streaming platforms such as Twitch and YouTube Gaming have established themselves in the niche, securing a large market share. While most Xbox subscribers were positive about the feature, many gamers criticized its late release to the public and speculated on its timing amidst other streaming competitors. Some gamers even stated that the service’s launch may be an indicator of the end of the Xbox console era. 

“How about you allow me to play the games I own online without having a subscription that would be nice.”

–BroncoWarrior30

Other gamers criticized Microsoft’s decision to launch the streaming service despite it not being ready. The feature’s global availability was also pointed out as only being available in a handful of first-world countries. Amidst the speculation, Microsoft also revealed that the feature would be coming to console and PC in 2025. While many gamers welcomed the news, some continued to criticize Microsoft for its poor timing when marketing and rolling out new services. 

From Zero to Web3 Pro: Your 90-Day Career Launch Plan