Xbox Cloud Gaming Expands Game Access

Xbox Cloud Gaming Expands Game Access: What You Need to Know

Microsoft is set to revolutionize the gaming experience with a significant update to Xbox Cloud Gaming. Starting in November 2024, gamers will be able to purchase and play games they own outside of the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate library. This long-awaited feature, confirmed by Xbox President Sarah Bond, marks a major milestone in Microsoft’s vision to bring its entire Xbox games catalog to the cloud.

Currently, Xbox Cloud Gaming only supports games available through the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription. However, the new update will allow users to create their own cloud library using games purchased from the Xbox Store. This means that gamers will no longer be limited to the Game Pass library and can enjoy a broader range of titles on their preferred devices.

The rollout of this feature will be gradual, with access expanding over the coming weeks and months. Initially, it will not provide instant access to the entire digital Xbox console game library, but it is a significant step towards that goal. The update follows a recent U.S. court ruling in the Google vs. Epic case, which forced Google to open its app platform to third-party stores and sales. This ruling allows Microsoft to sell Xbox games directly through its new Xbox Android app in the United States, with potential expansion to other regions in the future.

One of the main questions surrounding this update is its availability on iOS and outside the United States. While details are still emerging, the gradual rollout suggests that Microsoft is working on expanding access to these platforms as well. This update will enhance the flexibility and convenience of Xbox Cloud Gaming, making it easier for gamers to access their favorite titles on various devices.

In addition to the new purchasing feature, Xbox Cloud Gaming will continue to support a wide range of devices, including iPhones, Android phones, and tablets. This ensures that gamers can enjoy their favorite titles on the go, without the need for a physical console. The update also aligns with Microsoft’s broader strategy to integrate cloud gaming with its existing services, providing a seamless gaming experience across different platforms.

For more details, you can read the full article on Windows Central¹.

¹: Source: Windows Central, “Xbox Cloud Gaming ‘Bring Your Own Games’ FAQ”