Microsoft is embarking on an exciting journey to enhance the Xbox Cloud Gaming experience, introducing features that promise to unify gaming across devices. The company is currently testing updates for both the Xbox PC app and Xbox consoles, aimed at creating a seamless transition for gamers as they switch between platforms.
A notable addition is the new play history section, which will be integrated into the Xbox PC app and the home user interface of Xbox consoles. This feature will allow players to view cloud games alongside their recently played titles, ensuring that gaming experiences are consistent whether on an Xbox console, PC, or handheld device.
As explained by Lily Wang, product manager for Xbox experiences, “This includes all cloud playable titles, even console exclusives spanning from the original Xbox to Xbox Series X|S, whether you own the title or access it through Game Pass.” This means that players can enjoy a comprehensive view of their gaming history, regardless of the device used.
Recent games, including those accessible via cloud gaming, will soon be tracked across devices, complete with cloud-powered game saves. For instance, if a player engages with an Xbox title on their console that isn’t natively available on PC, it will still appear in their recent games list, allowing for continued play through Xbox Cloud Gaming on Windows.
The Xbox PC app will also feature a new filter in the library section specifically for cloud-playable games. Additionally, a dedicated “play history” section will be positioned at the end of the “jump back in” list on the app’s home screen. Wang notes, “While the large tiles highlight games you’ve recently played on your current device, the play history tile shows games you’ve played across any Xbox device, making it easy to pick up where you left off.”
This play history feature will extend to the main Xbox console interface as well, hinting at the potential for PC games to be included and playable through Xbox Cloud Gaming in the future. Currently, Microsoft leverages the advanced chips from the Xbox Series X to power specialized server blades for cloud gaming. However, internal communications revealed during the FTC v. Microsoft case in 2023 indicate that the company is exploring the possibility of streaming PC games over the cloud.
As Microsoft continues to bridge the gap between Xbox and PC for its next-generation consoles, there is anticipation for enhanced support for PC games within Xbox Cloud Gaming, along with improvements in bitrates and resolutions, promising an even richer gaming experience.