Highlights
- Microsoft officially launches cloud-based game streaming, letting users play Xbox titles without a console via Game Pass tiers.
- It is compatible with PCs, smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and handhelds like ROG Ally.
- Players just need a controller and 20 Mbps internet.
Caption – (Photo by Sam Pak on Unsplash)
Microsoft has officially launched its Xbox Cloud Gaming service in India. It allows players to stream Xbox titles directly from the cloud without needing a console. The company confirmed the rollout after multiple leaks claimed that the service would soon arrive in the country. Previously, Xbox Cloud Gaming was available only in beta across select regions. Here’s everything you need to know.
Xbox Cloud Gaming Now in India
The service is being introduced as part of Microsoft’s Game Pass subscription plans. It will be available in the new Essential, Premium, and Ultimate tiers that were revamped in October.
This means Indian users can now stream supported Xbox titles from the cloud by simply subscribing to one of these plans.
Before Microsoft’s official confirmation, several Reddit users from the Xbox India subreddit reported that Xbox Cloud Gaming had begun rolling out in India. Many claimed they could already access cloud-playable titles through the Xbox app on PC.
Caption – Reddit posts.
How to Play Games via Xbox Cloud Gaming?
Xbox Cloud Gaming allows players to enjoy console-quality titles on nearly any compatible device. It could be PCs, Macs, Android and iOS smartphones, tablets, Samsung and LG smart TVs, and Amazon Fire TV.
Players can even use Windows-based gaming handhelds like the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X, both of which debuted in India in October.
No console is required to start playing. Users just need a compatible controller (either the Xbox Wireless Controller or Sony DualSense) and a stable internet connection of at least 20 Mbps. Some supported games also offer touch or keyboard and mouse controls.
Hundreds of Game Pass titles already support cloud streaming and Microsoft recently expanded access to include certain games that players personally own.
Xbox Game Pass Plans and Pricing in India
In India, Game Pass Essential starts at Rs. 499 per month, offering over 50 titles, online multiplayer, and unlimited cloud streaming. The Premium plan is priced at Rs. 699, while the Ultimate tier costs Rs. 1,389, featuring hundreds of titles including day-one releases.
The PC Game Pass is available separately for Rs. 939 per month.
Microsoft has also recently revamped its Game Pass lineup, phasing out the Core and Standard plans in favour of Essential and Premium. Both plans are now supporting unlimited cloud streaming for select games.
FAQS
Q1. What is Xbox Cloud Gaming and how does it work?
Answer. Xbox Cloud Gaming lets users stream Xbox titles directly from the cloud on devices like PCs, phones, tablets, and smart TVs. No console required.
Q2. What do I need to play Xbox Cloud games in India?
Answer. You need a Game Pass subscription (Essential, Premium, or Ultimate), a compatible controller, and a stable internet connection of at least 20 Mbps.
Q3. How much does Xbox Cloud Gaming cost in India?
Answer. Game Pass Essential starts at ₹499/month, Premium at ₹699, and Ultimate at ₹1,389, all offering cloud streaming. PC Game Pass is ₹939/month.