Microsoft is expanding its cloud gaming capabilities by partnering with Amazon to launch an Xbox app for Fire TV devices. This move follows a similar initiative where the Xbox gaming app was added to Samsung TVs, allowing gamers to enjoy Xbox games without the need for a console.
The Xbox app will be available for the Fire TV Stick 4K Max and Fire TV Stick 4K. To play the games, you’ll need an active Xbox Game Pass Ultimate membership and a Bluetooth-enabled wireless controller. Notably, the app supports various controllers, including the Xbox wireless controller, Xbox adaptive controller, and even PlayStation’s DualShock 4 and DualSense controllers.
The partnership with Amazon aligns well with its streaming service, Prime Video, which hosts the popular Fallout TV series. This synergy allows new subscribers to dive into the Fallout game universe on Xbox Game Pass after watching the show.
Microsoft has been aggressively expanding its user base for Xbox Game Pass, offering months of free subscriptions to PC gamers and consistently adding new games to the service. Recent additions include major titles like Octopath Traveler and The Callisto Protocol. This expansion, combined with the service’s availability beyond Xbox hardware, helps Microsoft counterbalance declining console sales.
Despite the push towards cloud gaming, Microsoft isn’t abandoning console sales. The company plans to launch an all-digital Xbox Series X this holiday season and is rumored to be developing a handheld console.
Xbox Game Pass is available for PC and Xbox console owners, with plans starting at $9.99 per month. The Ultimate membership, necessary for cloud gaming, costs $16.99 per month.
Why Cloud Gaming?
Cloud gaming allows for flexible and convenient gaming experiences. With the Xbox app on the Fire TV Stick, you can play games in high quality on your living room TV and seamlessly switch to another TV, phone, tablet, or laptop. This setup is ideal for casual gaming or for those who don’t want to invest in multiple consoles.
Getting Started
To start playing Xbox games on your Fire TV Stick, follow these steps:
- Purchase a Fire TV Stick 4K Max or Fire TV Stick 4K: These devices start at $49.99.
- Download the Xbox App: Install the Xbox app from the Amazon Appstore on your Fire TV device.
- Sign In: Log in with your Microsoft account. If you’re an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate member, you’ll have immediate access to hundreds of cloud-enabled games.
- Connect a Controller: Pair a compatible Bluetooth controller (Xbox Wireless Controller, Xbox Adaptive Controller, DualSense, or DualShock 4).
- Start Playing: Enjoy a vast library of games, including titles like Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II, Starfield, and Forza Horizon 5.
One of the key benefits of using a Fire TV Stick for cloud gaming is its portability. You can easily move your setup between rooms or take it with you while traveling. As long as you have a stable internet connection, your gaming experience remains uninterrupted.
Amazon has introduced AI-powered search on Fire TV devices, simplifying the process of finding content. The Enhanced Search feature is particularly beneficial for discovering new games or TV shows. Additionally, Fallout fans can enjoy a unique experience by playing Fallout games via cloud gaming and watching the Fallout TV series on Prime Video.
Microsoft’s vision for the future of gaming includes seamless transitions between different devices and screens. With this latest move to integrate Xbox Cloud Gaming with Amazon Fire TV sticks, Microsoft is laying the groundwork for a versatile gaming ecosystem. Upcoming innovations, such as a rumored handheld Xbox console, aim to further enhance this flexibility, allowing for both cloud gaming and local play.
Overall, this partnership between Microsoft and Amazon represents a significant step towards making high-quality gaming more accessible and versatile for players around the world.