https://www.thesixthaxis.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/ProjectxCloud-Hero500.jpg

Project xCloud Preview updated with Ori and the Will of the Wisps, Batman: Arkham Knight & more

by

As Microsoft build up to the full launch of their Project xCloud streaming service some time this year, they’ve thrown a clutch of additional games onto the preview version of the service.

These five games are critically acclaimed Ori and the Will of the Wisps, Batman: Arkham Knight, Mortal Kombat X, Lego Batman 3: Beyond Gotham and Pillars of Eternity. Added to the existing library, there are now 55 games available to stream for free… so long as you’re part of the preview programme.

Ori is the clear highlight here, having earned a precious 10/10 review from us when it released back in March. We wrote:

“Ori and the Will of the Wisps builds on its predecessor’s near-perfect Metroidvania platforming and grows the concept to wonderful effect. A game that’s as much about rebirth, hope and wonder as it is death and decay, Will of the Wisps is a beautiful, enchanting piece of fantasy, and an instant classic.”

Project xCloud testing started in October 2019, but is now spreading out across Europe (though this has slowed due to the coronavirus) with the intention of making this a global streaming platform. Availability is currently limited to Android devices, though a limited testflight of 10,000 users has been possible on iOS in a restricted form, with just Halo: The Master Chief Collection available to them – this is reportedly due to Apple’s App store policies, which are also holding up xCloud rivals Stadia and GeForce Now.

The full launch of Project xCloud is set for sometime this year, at which point Microsoft will allow for streaming of any Xbox One game that you own or have access to via an Xbox Game Pass subscription.

To take part in the preview, head to xbox.com/gamestreaming and pop your name in the hat. There are just a few hardware requirements to join up: an Xbox One controller with Bluetooth and an Android smartphone or tablet. You’ll need to have a 5Ghz Wi-Fi connection or 10Mbps mobile connection as well, with partnerships with T-Mobile in the US and Vodafone in the UK to ensure the lowest latency possible.

Source: Xbox