Microsoft Sets October Launch Date for xCloud Streaming Game Service
It’s been many months since we first started hearing about xCloud. But aside from a March demo, we hadn’t heard or seen a lot of details on the forthcoming Xbox streaming game service. That has changed now. Microsoft has been showing off xCloud at E3. And from what we have seen and heard so far, this sounds like it is going to live up to all the curiosity and hype.
What We Know So Far About xCloud
Describing xCloud, Phil Spencer explained, “Two months ago we connected all Xbox developers to Project xCloud.” This service will “turn your Xbox One into your own personal and free xCloud server.”
So with xCloud, you’ll be able to access Xbox One library and Xbox Game Pass titles on any compatible device you choose. These are to include not just consoles, but also computers and mobile devices. Which devices specifically? Well, we do not know a lot in this regard, but take a look at this tweet:
The text from the tweet reads:
“With Console Streaming from your Xbox One you’ll be able to:
- Turn your Xbox One into your own personal console server
- Stream your Xbox One library, including Xbox Game Pass, for free
Where you play is entirely your choice. Going into preview in October. #XboxE3.”
Perhaps the most exciting words in that tweet include “free” and “entirely your choice.” This sounds like it is going to be a massive convenience to gamers, and a liberating one at that. It sounds like we will be able to use this service on any platform we wish.
Microsoft is not the only entrant into the cloud gaming scene. Google Stadia will be competing, as will Sony with PlayStation Now. PlayStation Now already exists, of course, and Stadia is slated to be available in November. But none of these services are interchangeable with one another. Each brings its own pros and cons to the table. So it will be interesting to see which come out ahead and what their overall influence will be on the console war.
We are coming up on October fast. So it seems likely that we will be hearing a lot more about xCloud soon. We also are likely to hear a lot more about other Microsoft plans as the week progresses. To make sure that you do not miss out on any headlines regarding xCloud or anything else Microsoft-related, keep up with our Xbox news feed.