Microsoft is about ready to enter the game streaming realm, as today it announced the official (beta) launch date of the Xbox Game Pass Cloud Gaming software, formerly known as Project xCloud. The service will launch as part of the Xbox Game Pass app on September 15, 2020, and will be included in Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscriptions. Aside form the subscription, all you’ll need is a compatible Android device and a Bluetooth controller. But if you want to jump into Xbox Cloud Gaming in style, a series of officially-branded controllers and accessories will be available. Here’s what you can get.
Official Xbox xCloud Controller and Accessories List
There are plenty of potential options for controllers to use with xCloud, especially since the beta launch will only be available for Android for the time being. But if you want the official Xbox-branded stuff, there are a few initial “Designed for Xbox” options from Razer, 8BitDo, and PowerA.
Related: Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and Project xCloud Are Merging
Razer Kishi
If you want the fully optimized for mobile experience that’s also branded and designed explicitly for Xbox cloud streaming, this is gonna be your first and last stop on this train. The Razer Kishi is an investment at $100, but it effectively turns your phone into a gaming handheld. This controller slides open to hold your phone right in the middle, and even connects to the phone via USB-C for even less latency than Bluetooth. If you get it while it’s hot, the Kishi also comes with a Xbox Game Pass Ultimate trial. It’s also out right now if you want to try it out before September rolls around.
PowerA MOGA XP5-X Plus
This bad boy from PowerA will run you $70, and it comes with everything you’d need if you don’t already have a mobile-friendly gaming setup. This controller comes with what you need at a minimum, meaning a Bluetooth connection and chargeable battery. But it also comes with PowerA’s phone clip, which snaps onto the controller and has articulated locking so you can angle your device to your comfort. Finally, the controller can double as a power bank, allowing you to keep your battery alive while playing or use the pad as a backup charger. The MOGA XP5-X Plus launches with the service on September 15. If you already have a controller, you can get the clip by itself right now for $15.
8BitDo SN30 Pro
If retro gaming is more your speed, you can pick up a new, Xbox-branded version of 8BitDo’s popular SN30 Bluetooth controller. Modeled after the classic Super Nintendo “dog bone” design, this controller still houses the parts needed for contemporary games. This iteration of the SN30 also comes with a new phone clip, which is also available as a separate $15 purchase. If 8BitDo’s retro aesthetic piques your interest, it’s the cheapest option here at $45 but doesn’t launch until September 21.
That’s all for now, as far as officially-licensed and branded Xbox xCloud controllers and accessories are concerned. These controllers are all “Designed for Xbox,” meaning they’re optimized for the platform, and all feature a similar black and white color scheme (and trademark Xbox jewel “Home” buttons).
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Are you feeling any of these controllers, especially as we get closer to Xbox Game Pass cloud gaming? Or do you already have a tried and true pad for your mobile gaming needs? Let us know what your setup looks like over on the Prima Games Facebook and Twitter channels!
Published: Aug 4, 2020 03:50 pm