Microsoft has announced that it will open a limited beta test for Xbox Cloud Gaming — previously referred to as Project xCloud — for PC and iOS devices tomorrow. Randomly selected Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members will be getting invites to test streaming over 100 Game Pass titles through Edge, Google Chrome, or Safari web browsers. The service has been available for Android-based phones and tablets since last year.
If you turn out to be one of the lucky ones, all you need is just a compatible Bluetooth or USB-connected controller to start playing. On mobile, custom touch controls support for more than 50 different games will be available as well. Microsoft promises that more invites will be sent out, and not just for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members in the US.
The limited beta is our time to test and learn; we’ll send out more invites on a continuous basis to players in all 22 supported countries, evaluate feedback, continue to improve the experience, and add support for more devices. Our plan is to iterate quickly and open up to all Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members in the coming months so more people have the opportunity to play Xbox in all-new ways.“
Previously, Apple has blocked stand-alone streaming applications like Google Stadia and Xbox Cloud Gaming for iOS devices. The iOS maker insists that each game listed on the application must be individually submitted and subject to iOS publishing rules. Of course, Microsoft isn’t impressed and now by limiting Xbox game streaming via web browser, the Windows giant has successfully bypassed this issue.
According to the official Xbox Cloud Gaming FAQ on Reddit, local co-op (connecting two or more controllers) to one device for Xbox game streaming is not supported. And there are several things you have to note regarding some of the games available to be streamed:
- Halo: MCC: much of the content will be free to play, however, you must first own Halo: Reach to play it.
- Hitman: If you don’t own the game, the Game of the Year Edition is free to play in Xbox Cloud Gaming beta only.
- Killer Instinct: 25 characters from seasons 1, 2, and 3 are free to use along with additional characters from weekly rotations.
- Monster Hunter: World: Even if previously purchased, the Iceborne expansion is not available via Xbox Cloud Gaming.
If you do get an invite tomorrow, what Xbox exclusive games are you going to play? Share with us your ideas in the comments below.