If you’re a PC gamer, you’ve probably heard about Xbox Game Pass. But a common question is: does PC Game Pass have cloud gaming? The answer is a bit more detailed than a simple yes or no. Let’s clear up the confusion right away.
Microsoft offers several Game Pass plans. The one called “PC Game Pass” does not include cloud gaming. That feature is part of a different, more expensive subscription. This article will explain exactly what you get, how to get cloud gaming on your PC, and whether it’s worth it for you.
Does PC Game Pass Have Cloud Gaming
No, the standard PC Game Pass subscription does not include cloud gaming. PC Game Pass gives you access to download and play hundreds of games directly on your Windows PC. Cloud gaming, which lets you stream games without downloading them, is a separate perk.
To play games via the cloud on your PC, you need the ultimate tier of the service: Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. Ultimate bundles PC Game Pass, Xbox Console Game Pass, and Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta) into one monthly price.
Understanding the Game Pass Family
It’s easy to get the different plans mixed up. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- PC Game Pass: Access to a library of games for Windows PCs. You download and install them. No cloud streaming.
- Xbox Game Pass for Console: Access to a library of games for Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One consoles. Download and install only.
- Xbox Game Pass Ultimate: The all-in-one plan. It includes both PC and Console libraries, plus Xbox Cloud Gaming, EA Play membership, and online multiplayer.
What is Xbox Cloud Gaming?
Xbox Cloud Gaming, often called “cloud gaming” or “game streaming,” is technology that runs the game on powerful servers in Microsoft’s data centers. The video of the game is sent to your device over the internet, and your controller inputs are sent back. It’s like watching a interactive Netflix for games.
The biggest benefit? You can play demanding, new-release games on devices that couldn’t normally run them, like an old laptop, a tablet, or even a smart TV. Since the game isn’t running on your hardware, you don’t need a powerful graphics card or a lot of storage space.
Key Requirements for Cloud Gaming on PC
Even with an Ultimate subscription, you’ll need a few things to start streaming on your PC:
- An active Xbox Game Pass Ultimate membership.
- A compatible controller (Xbox Wireless Controller is best, but many others work).
- A strong and stable internet connection (20 Mbps down is recommended).
- A Windows 10/11 PC or an Apple Mac with a supported browser (Microsoft Edge, Chrome, or Safari).
- You must be in a supported region where the service is available.
How to Use Cloud Gaming on Your PC
If you have Game Pass Ultimate, starting a cloud gaming session on your PC is straightforward. Here are the steps:
- Go to the Xbox Cloud Gaming website (xbox.com/play) in your browser, or use the Xbox app for Windows.
- Sign in with the Microsoft account that has your Ultimate subscription.
- Browse the list of games that have the cloud icon. The library for cloud is a subset of the full Game Pass catalog.
- Click “Play” on the game you want. No install button, just play.
- Connect your controller to your PC via USB or Bluetooth. The game will start streaming almost immediately.
It’s that simple. You can be playing a huge game like Microsoft Flight Simulator or Starfield in under a minute, which is pretty amazing when you think about the download size those titles usually have.
Comparing the Experience: Download vs. Cloud
Is cloud gaming as good as downloading? It depends on your priorities.
Advantages of Cloud Gaming (Streaming)
- Instant Play: Start playing in seconds, no waiting for downloads or updates.
- Saves Storage: Doesn’t use your PC’s SSD or HDD space.
- Device Flexibility: Play on low-spec PCs or other devices.
- Always Updated: The server version is always the latest, so no patch downloads.
Advantages of Local Download (PC Game Pass)
- Best Quality: Max graphics, resolution, and frame rates based on your PC’s hardware.
- No Latency: Direct input and video means no streaming lag, crucial for competitive games.
- Always Available: Playable offline once downloaded, not reliant on internet quality.
- Full Library: Access to the entire PC Game Pass catalog, not just the cloud-enabled titles.
Is Upgrading to Ultimate Worth It for PC-Only Gamers?
This is the big question. If you only game on a PC and never on an Xbox console, is Ultimate worth the extra cost over standard PC Game Pass? Consider these points:
- Try Before You Download: Use cloud to quickly test if you like a game before committing to a large download.
- Play Anywhere: Access your saves and play on your phone, tablet, or a friend’s PC when you’re away from your main rig.
- Hardware Limits: If your PC is aging, cloud lets you experience new games at high settings.
- Included Perks: Ultimate also gives you EA Play on PC and monthly bonus content.
For many, the convenience is a game-changer. But if you have a powerful PC, a fast unlimited internet connection for downloads, and only play at your desk, the standard PC Game Pass might be sufficient. You can always upgrade for a month to try out the cloud features and see what you think.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting for Cloud Gaming
Cloud gaming is reliable, but it’s not perfect. Here are some typical problems and how to fix them.
Input Lag or “Controller Delay”
This is the most common complaint. It makes games feel sluggish.
- Fix: Use a wired USB connection for your controller instead of Bluetooth. Ensure your PC is connected to your router via Ethernet, not Wi-Fi, if possible. Close other bandwidth-heavy applications on your network.
Blurry or Pixelated Video
The stream quality drops, making the game look blocky.
- Fix: This is usually a bandwidth issue. Run an internet speed test. If you’re on Wi-Fi, move closer to your router or reduce interference. In the Xbox app settings, you can also check your streaming quality option.
Game Won’t Start or Crashes
You click play but get an error or a black screen.
- Fix: Refresh the browser page or restart the Xbox app. Clear your browser’s cache. Make sure your Microsoft account is properly signed in and your Ultimate subscription is active. Sometimes server-side issues happen, so check the Xbox status page.
The Future of Cloud Gaming on PC
Cloud gaming is still evolving. Microsoft is continuously adding more games to the cloud-enabled list and improving the technology with better servers and lower latency. They are also integrating it directly into devices like smart TVs and streaming sticks.
For PC gamers, the line between local and cloud play will likely blur further. Features like “Jump Back In” let you quickly resume a game you were playing on another device. As internet infrastructure improves globally, cloud gaming could become a standard part of every gaming subscription.
How to Get the Best Deal on Game Pass Ultimate
Since Ultimate is the key to cloud gaming on PC, here’s how to subscribe smartly:
- Look for Promotional Offers: Microsoft often runs $1 for your first month promotions for new subscribers.
- Convert Gold/Live to Ultimate: If you have any pre-paid Xbox Live Gold or PC Game Pass codes, you can buy them, then upgrade to Ultimate. This converts all remaining time to Ultimate at a 1:1 ratio, up to 36 months, for just the cost of one month of Ultimate. This is the most famous money-saving method.
- Check Retailers: Sites like Amazon, CDKeys, or Newegg sometimes sell digital codes for Ultimate at a slight discount.
Remember, you can cancel anytime. If you just want to test cloud gaming for a specific game or trip, you can subscribe for a single month.
FAQ Section
Does PC Game Pass come with cloud gaming?
No, it does not. Cloud gaming is only included with the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription plan.
Can I play Xbox cloud games on my PC?
Yes, but only if you have an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate membership. Then you can stream via a supported web browser or the Xbox app for Windows.
What’s the difference between Xbox Game Pass and PC Game Pass?
Xbox Game Pass typically refers to the console plan. PC Game Pass is specifically for Windows computers. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate includes both, plus cloud gaming and other benefits.
Do I need a good PC for cloud gaming with Game Pass?
Not really. Since the game runs on a remote server, your PC just needs to be able to decode a video stream. A modern low-end PC, laptop, or even an older machine with a decent internet connection can handle it.
Is there a seperate app for Game Pass cloud gaming on PC?
You can use the dedicated Xbox app for Windows, which has a “Cloud Gaming” section. Alternatively, you can use the website xbox.com/play in browsers like Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, or Safari.
Are all PC Game Pass games available on the cloud?
No. Only a selection of games from the broader Game Pass library are enabled for cloud streaming. The list is always changing, but it includes many popular titles. You’ll see a cloud icon next to games that support it.
Final Thoughts
So, does PC Game Pass have cloud gaming? To reiterate, the standalone PC Game Pass plan does not. That capability is reserved for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. For PC-centric gamers, Ultimate serves as a premium upgrade that adds flexibility, convenience, and a way to bypass hardware limitations.
The decision ultimately comes down to your personal setup and how you like to play. If you value trying games instantly, playing across multiple screens, or have a PC that struggles with new releases, the upgrade to Ultimate for cloud gaming is a compelling offer. If you have a powerful gaming rig and don’t mind managing downloads, the standard PC Game Pass remains an incredible value on its own.
Hopefully, this guide has cleared up any confusion and given you the information you need to choose the right Game Pass plan for your gaming lifestyle. The world of game subscriptions can be tricky, but understanding these details helps you get the most for your money.