Xbox is reportedly testing a highly anticipated feature that will allow users to stream games they already own via cloud streaming. This means you won’t be limited to only playing titles available within the Xbox Game Pass library. This exciting development, codenamed Project Lapland, is expected to hit the Xbox Insider program as early as November, according to The Verge’s Tom Warren. Assuming a smooth testing phase, a broader rollout to the public will likely follow soon after, most probably for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers.
Currently, Xbox cloud gaming restricts streaming to titles included in the Game Pass subscription. This robust library is accessible on a wide range of devices, from mobile phones to Amazon Fire TV. While browser access is typically required for cloud gaming, Xbox has been steadily releasing dedicated apps for smart TVs and other platforms. A newly combined Xbox and Game Pass mobile app streamlines the experience, offering a unified platform for browsing the catalog and accessing Game Pass perks, even though cloud streaming still requires a browser.
An Xbox controller being held up in front of an Xbox Series S
Furthermore, a recent legal victory against Google in an antitrust case concerning the Play Store will enable Xbox to offer in-app game purchases directly through its Android app. This significant change removes previous restrictions imposed by Google on third-party payment systems within the Play Store. This opens new avenues for players to access and purchase games.
The court’s ruling to open up Google’s mobile store in the US will allow more choice and flexibility. Our mission is to allow more players to play on more devices so we are thrilled to share that starting in November, players will be able to play and purchase Xbox games directly… — @BondSarah_Bond, October 10, 2024
These advancements are not entirely unexpected. The capability to stream owned games via the cloud, rather than relying solely on Game Pass titles, has been a long-standing promise since the initial days of Project xCloud. Back in 2019, Xbox leadership expressed their commitment to providing gamers with greater freedom of choice and the ability to stream their existing and future game purchases from the cloud by 2020.
Image showcasing Xbox Cloud Gaming on various devices
These plans were reaffirmed in 2022 by Ashley McKissick, corporate vice president of Gaming Experiences and Platforms. McKissick indicated that, based on player feedback, Game Pass Ultimate subscribers would gain the ability to stream their owned “cloud-enabled” games later that year.
In conclusion, Project Lapland marks a significant step forward for Xbox cloud gaming. The ability to stream your own library expands accessibility and offers greater flexibility for players. Combined with the ability to purchase games directly through the Android app, Xbox is bolstering its cloud gaming ecosystem and delivering on its promise of broader gaming access.
