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You can play Xbox games on a PC, phone, or TV in three ways: stream eligible games with Xbox Cloud Gaming, stream games from your own Xbox console with Remote Play, or install a PC version locally on a Windows computer. You do not need to own a console for Cloud Gaming, but Remote Play does require access to one. The best option depends on the game, your device, and whether you want to stream or install.
Choose how you want to play
| Method | Where the game runs | Console required? | What you need |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xbox Cloud Gaming | On Xbox servers; streamed to your device | No | Supported device and browser or TV app, Microsoft account, eligible game and plan, internet connection, and a controller for controller-based games |
| Xbox Remote Play | On an Xbox console you own or can access; streamed to your device | Yes | Configured Xbox console with the game, compatible client device, Microsoft account with an Xbox profile, and supported controller |
| Local PC play | Installed and run on your Windows PC | No | Windows PC that meets the game’s requirements, a PC version of the game, and the required game entitlement |
Availability varies by game, device, plan, and region. Check the current Xbox Cloud Gaming catalog and the relevant device requirements before you start.
Play Xbox games on a PC
Stream with Xbox Cloud Gaming
- Open xbox.com/play in a supported browser and sign in with your Microsoft account.
- Choose a game marked as available for cloud play. Eligibility depends on the game, your plan, and your region.
- Connect a supported controller if the game requires one. Controller support depends on the controller and device.
This method streams the game rather than installing it on your computer.
Install a PC version locally
- Open the Xbox PC app and find the game you want to play.
- Check that a PC version is available and that your Windows PC meets its system requirements.
- Install and launch the PC version through the app or the relevant store using the entitlement required for that game.
An Xbox console copy does not automatically include a PC version. Check the specific game’s availability and entitlement before expecting to install it on Windows.
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- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
Stream from your Xbox with Remote Play
Use the Xbox Remote Play experience to connect to a console that you own or can access. The console runs the game and sends the stream to your PC, so the console and the game must be available to you. Follow Xbox’s Remote Play setup and device requirements for the current connection steps.
Play Xbox games on a phone or tablet
Use Cloud Gaming in a browser
On supported Android, iOS, and iPadOS devices, Xbox Cloud Gaming is accessed through a browser rather than a dedicated Cloud Gaming app, according to Xbox’s Getting Started with Xbox Cloud Gaming guide. Open xbox.com/play, sign in, and select a game eligible for cloud play.
Rank #2
- Versatile compatibility: supports Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One X/S consoles and PC Win10 and above (including the game platform Steam).
- Precise control: features Hall joysticks and Hall triggers for a comfortable feeling, long service life and improved game accuracy.
- Plug and Play Convenience: Wired USB connection (removable) for easy setup and instant play without the need for additional drivers.
- Customizable experience: Includes 2 custom backbuttons that allow users to eliminate false triggers and improve their gaming experience.
- Impressive gameplay: Provides a pulsating vibration trigger and an asymmetric vibration grip motor for intense tactile feedback.
Many games require a controller. Pair a supported Bluetooth controller with your device, and check compatibility for your specific phone or tablet. Some games offer touch controls, but that is not true of every game.
Use Remote Play from your console
If you have configured access to an Xbox console, Remote Play streams games running on that console to your phone or tablet. Xbox lists Android 6.0 or later and iOS 15.1 or later on its Remote Play page; check that page for current requirements. You will also need a controller supported by your mobile device for games that require one.
Rank #3
- Tri-mode Connectivity: Wired for Xbox, 2.4G & Wired for PC, and Bluetooth for Android. The G7 Pro supports seamless connectivity across Xbox, PC, and Android. Effortlessly switch between modes using the convenient physical mode switch.
- TMR Sticks: The G7 Pro features GameSir's Mag-Res TMR sticks, combining Hall Effect durability with traditional potentiometer performance. This advanced technology delivers stable polling rates for smooth, drift-free gaming with low power consumption.
- Hall Effect Analog Triggers: The GameSir precision-tuned Hall Effect analog triggers provide unmatched smoothness and linear input for precise control. Featuring clicky Micro Switch trigger stops, gamers can easily switch based on their preferences.
- 1000Hz Polling Rate on PC: Experience ultra-responsive gaming with a 1000Hz polling rate on PC, available through both wired and 2.4G wireless connections. This ensures instantaneous input registration, reducing lag and optimizing your performance for the most competitive gameplay.
- GameSir Nexus App: The G7 Pro is compatible with the upgraded GameSir Nexus app, which brings a significant upgrade over the original. It introduces powerful new features such as gyro settings, stick curve adjustments, and button-to-mouse mapping, giving you deeper customization and more control than ever before.
Play Xbox games on a TV
Xbox offers an app route on supported LG and Samsung smart TVs and select Amazon Fire TV devices. On a compatible device, open the Xbox app, sign in, connect a compatible controller, and choose an eligible game. Model support is selective and can change, so confirm your TV’s exact model and year or your Fire TV device on Xbox’s Xbox on TVs compatibility page before relying on this option.
The TV app uses cloud streaming, not a game installed on the television. Xbox says most available cloud games on TVs require an active Game Pass subscription and supporting games; check the current plan eligibility and regional availability on the compatibility page.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- XBOX WIRELESS CONTROLLER + USB-C CABLE — Includes the XBOX Wireless Controller in Carbon Black and a 9' USB-C cable. Play wirelessly or plug in for a wired gaming experience, right out of the box.*
- WIRED OR WIRELESS, YOUR CALL — Connect the included 9' USB-C cable for zero-setup wired play on console and PC. Go wireless when you want the freedom to play from the couch, the desk, or anywhere in between.
- PC READY. NO EXTRAS NEEDED — Plug the USB-C cable into your Windows PC and you're playing instantly. No adapters, no Bluetooth pairing, no additional purchases required. Works across the XBOX app, Steam, and more.*
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience sculpted surfaces and refined geometry designed around how you actually hold a controller. Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grip on the triggers, bumpers, and back case.
- UP TO 40 HOURS OF BATTERY LIFE — Get up to 40 hours of wireless battery life on standard AA batteries. When the batteries run low, plug in the included cable and keep playing without missing a beat.*
Rank #4
- Wide Compatibility: VOYEE wired 360 controller compatible with Microsoft Xbox 360 & Slim/ PC (Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7). Just plug and play, not for FPS games
- Enhanced Game Controller: Upgraded PC 360 controller with new left and right trigger buttons and more sensitive joysticks and buttons - Respond quickly to player commands without delay
- Astonishing Gaming Experience: VOYEE wired pc controller provides rumble control and according to the game automatic vibration feedback to enhanced game experience and match your personal preference
- Ergonomic Design: Grips's contours have been designed to fit your hands more comfortably to hold for a long time and 7.2ft cord allows greater
- What You Get: VOYEE wired 360/PC Controller, 45 Days Money Back, 365 Days Guarantee Against quality defect and 24 Hours Friendly Customer Support
What you need to check before choosing
- Game eligibility: A game may be available for local PC installation, Cloud Gaming, or your console without being available through all three routes.
- Device support: Browser access and TV app availability depend on the device. For TVs and streaming devices, check the exact model rather than assuming every recent model is supported.
- Subscription and ownership: Cloud Gaming does not require an Xbox console, but eligible games and plan conditions apply. Remote Play streams games from a console you can access.
- Controller: A supported Bluetooth controller is useful for Remote Play and most controller-based cloud games. Verify that your controller works with both your device and the game.
- Internet connection: Both Cloud Gaming and Remote Play stream gameplay, so they rely on an internet connection. Local PC play runs the installed PC game instead of streaming it from Xbox servers or a home console.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
