Microsoft is describing the functionality provided by Project xCloud in Xbox Game Pass Ultimate as a new feature called “cloud gaming.” And there will be all kinds of new controllers for mobile.

“Cloud gaming as part of Xbox Game Pass is the next major step in our ongoing vision to put you at the center of the experience, to give you more value from your games and membership, and to remove the barriers from play,” Microsoft corporate vice president Kareem Choudhry writes in the announcement post. “Last month we laid out our commitment to you and announced cloud gaming, powered by Project xCloud, will be part of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate at no additional cost. Today we’re excited to share more about what you can expect.”

Here are the details.

Cloud gaming on Android phones and tablets. Beginning September 15, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members will be able to play over 100 games from the cloud on their Android phone or tablet. Cloud gaming will launch in beta for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members in 22 markets to ensure stability as Microsoft scales the feature to millions of gamers, it says.

Over 100 cloud gaming titles at launch. When cloud gaming launches as part of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, players will have access to over 100 games playable from the cloud, including Minecraft Dungeons, Destiny 2, Tell me Why, Gears 5, Yakuza Kiwami 2, and more. Microsoft has also previously committed to providing day-one access to new titles from Xbox Game Studios as part of Xbox Game Pass  in the cloud on the day they release.

Xbox experience will sync across cloud gaming too. Your friends list, achievements, controller settings, and saved game progress will be available on any device you choose to use.

New co-op experiences. Cloud gaming will unlock new “couch co-op experiences” with traditional online games, Microsoft says. “Sail off to adventure in Sea of Thieves on your tablet while a friend plays alongside you on console, right in the same room,” Choudhry adds. “Cloud gaming removes the need to wait until you can access your console in order to play your favorite games: Just pick up your phone or tablet and play the games you want, any time you want.”

Cloud gaming with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate will be available on Android devices in 22 markets at launch, Microsoft says, including Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

And as you may know, you can play Project xCloud/cloud gaming with standard Xbox One Bluetooth Wireless and PlayStation DUALSHOCK 4 controllers. But Microsoft has also partnered with Razer, PowerA, 8BitDo, and NACON to create all-new accessories specifically designed for cloud gaming. “These include different types of phone clips that adapt to a wide range of devices, travel controllers that fit in any bag, and exclusive Xbox-branded controllers that split apart and attach to the side of your phone,” Microsoft notes.

Also, here’s a little tip: Pay attention to Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked event today as there will be some Game Pass cloud gaming news.

Tagged with Xbox Cloud Gaming