Meta Quest VR headset users can now enjoy hundreds of Xbox games on a giant virtual screen, thanks to the official launch of Xbox Cloud Gaming on the platform. The feature, which was announced in September and went live in December, allows users to stream games from the cloud using a Game Pass Ultimate subscription and a compatible controller.
Xbox Cloud Gaming is a service that lets users play Xbox games on various devices without downloading them. The games are hosted on Microsoft’s servers and streamed over the internet to the user’s device. Users can access the service through the Xbox app, a web browser, or a dedicated app on Meta Quest VR headsets.
How does it work on Meta Quest VR headsets?
To use Xbox Cloud Gaming on Meta Quest VR headsets, users need to download the Xbox Cloud Gaming app from the Meta Quest store. The app will show a virtual screen that can be resized and repositioned in either a virtual or mixed reality space. Users can then browse and play games from the Game Pass library, which includes popular titles like Halo Infinite, Starfield, Forza Horizon 5, and more.
Users will also need a Game Pass Ultimate subscription, which costs $14.99 per month and includes access to over 100 games, EA Play, and Xbox Live Gold. Additionally, users will need a compatible controller, such as an Xbox Wireless Controller, a Meta Quest Controller, or a Bluetooth-enabled controller. Users can also use voice commands to navigate the app and launch games.
What are the benefits of playing Xbox games on Meta Quest VR headsets?
Playing Xbox games on Meta Quest VR headsets offers a number of benefits, such as:
- A larger and more immersive screen than a TV or a monitor
- A private and distraction-free environment to enjoy games
- A flexible and customizable way to adjust the screen size, position, and background
- A seamless and convenient way to switch between VR and 2D games
- A cross-play and cross-save feature that lets users continue their progress on other devices
What are the limitations and challenges of playing Xbox games on Meta Quest VR headsets?
Playing Xbox games on Meta Quest VR headsets also has some limitations and challenges, such as:
- A high-speed and stable internet connection is required to stream games without lag or buffering
- A limited battery life of the Meta Quest VR headset may affect the gaming session
- A potential motion sickness or eye strain may occur due to the VR experience
- A lack of native VR support for most Xbox games may reduce the immersion and interaction
- A regional restriction may apply to some games and features depending on the user’s location
What are the future plans for Xbox Cloud Gaming on Meta Quest VR headsets?
Microsoft and Meta have expressed their commitment to bringing more games and features to Xbox Cloud Gaming on Meta Quest VR headsets. Some of the future plans include:
- Adding more games to the Game Pass library, including exclusive titles from Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard
- Improving the performance and quality of the streaming service using new technologies and hardware
- Expanding the availability of the service to more regions and devices, including Meta Quest 2 and Meta Quest Pro
- Exploring the possibility of adding native VR support for some Xbox games, such as Minecraft and Flight Simulator
Xbox Cloud Gaming on Meta Quest VR headsets is a groundbreaking move that brings together two of the biggest players in the gaming industry. It offers a new way to play Xbox games on a VR platform, and opens up new possibilities for the future of gaming.