In an exciting update for gamers around the globe, Microsoft has announced the introduction of mouse and keyboard support for Xbox Cloud Gaming, marking a significant step forward in the platform’s capabilities. As of today, Xbox Insiders can dive into a selection of their favourite games using a mouse and keyboard on Windows PCs through Edge, Chrome, or the Xbox app. This leap forward comes nearly two years after Microsoft initially announced its intention to integrate mouse and keyboard support into its cloud gaming service, Xbox Cloud Gaming (formerly known as xCloud).
A new way to play
The rollout of this feature starts with a preview phase, where not all games will be immediately compatible. However, the list of supported titles is impressive and includes popular games like Fortnite, Sea of Thieves, and Halo Infinite. It’s important to note that during this phase, players may notice that the games initially display controller UI elements, which will switch to mouse and keyboard inputs once interaction begins.
Full-screen mode is a must for those keen on testing out mouse and keyboard gameplay within the browser version of Xbox Cloud Gaming. This requirement ensures that games can accurately capture your pointer for input. And if at any point you wish to switch back to using an Xbox controller, Microsoft has provided a simple ALT+F9 shortcut for seamless transition between control modes.
Supported games list expands
The introduction of mouse and keyboard support opens up new gaming possibilities, and the list of compatible games during the preview includes:
- Fortnite (browser only)
- ARK: Survival Evolved
- Sea of Thieves
- Grounded
- Halo Infinite
- Atomic Heart
- Sniper Elite 5
- Deep Rock Galactic
- High on Life
- Zombie Army 4: Dead War
- Gears Tactics
- Pentiment
- Doom 64
- Age of Empires 2
This selection showcases a variety of genres and gameplay experiences, indicating Microsoft’s commitment to offering diverse options for gamers looking to utilize mouse and keyboard controls.
Moving forward
As Xbox Cloud Gaming continues to evolve, the introduction of mouse and keyboard support significantly enhances the platform’s versatility and user experience. This update caters to PC gamers’ preferences and broadens the appeal of Xbox Cloud Gaming to a broader audience. As the preview phase progresses, players can expect the list of compatible games to grow, further enriching the gaming landscape available through Microsoft’s cloud service.
For gamers eager to get started, becoming an Xbox Insider is your gateway to experiencing the future of cloud gaming. As the community’s feedback shapes the development of Xbox Cloud Gaming, the future looks bright for this platform, promising an ever-expanding universe of gaming possibilities.
