Microsoft has officially launched Xbox Cloud Gaming in India, marking a key development in its global expansion and strengthening its focus on a rapidly growing gaming market. This service enables users to play high-quality console and PC games directly from the cloud without the need for expensive hardware. With Xbox Cloud Gaming, players can stream and enjoy games from nearly any location, provided they have a stable internet connection and an active Xbox Game Pass subscription. This initiative is anticipated to transform how Indian gamers access and enjoy premium titles, delivering flexibility and affordability in a market dominated by mobile gaming. One of the major attractions of Xbox Cloud Gaming is its extensive device compatibility.
Indian users can now enjoy their favorite titles on smartphones (both Android and iOS), PCs (including Windows, Mac, and Chromebooks), and even smart TVs from LG and Samsung. Microsoft has also confirmed compatibility with the Amazon Fire TV Stick, allowing gamers to play on their living room screens without a console. Moreover, support for handheld gaming devices will be introduced soon, further enhancing accessibility. To begin, users simply need to visit Xbox.com/play, log in with their Xbox account, and start streaming any game available through Xbox Game Pass. They can also stream games they own via the ‘Stream Your Own Game’ feature.
All tiers of Xbox Game Pass, including the entry-level Essential plan at ₹499 per month, now provide access to cloud gaming. Players require a compatible controller, either wired or wireless (such as the Xbox Wireless or Sony DualSense controller), and a reliable internet connection with a minimum download speed of 10 Mbps. Some games also support touchscreen controls or keyboard input, offering additional convenience for mobile users. During the hands-on session at the India Today Tech launch event, titles like NFS Unbound and Hogwarts Legacy performed seamlessly on the cloud platform, showcasing its ability to deliver console-quality gaming without hardware constraints. Microsoft characterized the launch as part of its broader commitment to India’s ‘mobile-first’ generation of gamers.
The company highlighted that cloud gaming eliminates the necessity for high-end PCs or consoles, allowing access to major titles like Forza Horizon on even mid-range smartphones. To encourage adoption, Microsoft plans to partner with retail giants such as Samsung and LG to provide in-store Xbox Cloud Gaming demonstrations. They will also collaborate with popular gaming content creators to showcase real-world gameplay experiences and demonstrate the platform’s capabilities. This launch in India is part of Microsoft’s ongoing strategy to expand the Xbox ecosystem globally. Recently, the company teamed up with Asus to create the ROG Xbox Ally series, the first handhelds featuring the Xbox brand.
Microsoft also shared plans to introduce the Xbox Fullscreen Experience to more handheld gaming devices in the near future, further connecting traditional and mobile gaming. With the launch in India, Microsoft aims to position Xbox Cloud Gaming as an inclusive and accessible platform, bringing the console experience to anyone, anywhere, on any screen.
