The world of Xbox Cloud Gaming just got a whole lot more versatile. Microsoft has officially rolled out mouse and keyboard support in beta, opening up a new dimension of control and precision for cloud gamers. Now, you can ditch the controller (if you want) and experience your favorite titles in a way that feels more familiar to PC players.
Why Mouse and Keyboard Matter
For many genres – think FPS, RTS, MMO, and even some action RPGs – mouse and keyboard simply offer superior accuracy, faster reaction times, and more intricate control schemes. While controllers have their place, this addition is a game-changer for those who crave the responsiveness of PC gaming on the go.
How to Get Started
The beta is available through supported web browsers (Chrome and Edge) and the Xbox app on Windows PCs. To enable it:
- Head to xbox.com/play.
- Sign in to your Microsoft account.
- Navigate to your profile settings and enable “Preview features.”
- Launch a supported game.
Supported Games:
- ARK: Survival Evolved
- Atomic Heart
- Cities: Skylines – Mayor’s Edition
- Cities: Skylines – Remastered
- Deep Rock Galactic
- Doom 64
- Fortnite (Browser)
- Gears Tactics
- Grounded
- Halo Infinite
- High on Life
- House Flipper
- Inkulinati (Preview)
- Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord
- Norco
- Pentiment
- Quake
- Quake 2
- Sea of Thieves
- Slime Rancher 2
- Sniper Elite 5
- State of Decay 2
- Terraria
- The Sims 4
- Valheim (game preview)
- Zombie Army 4: Dead War
The Best Gear for Your Cloud Gaming Setup
To make the most of this new feature, you’ll want the right tools. Here are our top recommendations for keyboards and mice that excel in both performance and portability:
Keyboards:
- Razer BlackWidow V3 Mini Hyperspeed: This compact mechanical keyboard packs a punch with its responsive switches and lightning-fast wireless connection.
- Logitech G915 TKL Lightspeed: Ultra-slim, wireless, and boasting low-profile mechanical keys, the G915 TKL is a sleek choice for travel.
- Keychron K3: For those seeking the satisfying click of mechanical keys in an even smaller package, the Keychron K3 delivers.
Mice:
- Logitech G Pro X Superlight: Weighing in at a mere 63 grams, this wireless mouse offers effortless gliding and pinpoint accuracy.
- Razer Viper Mini: A fantastic budget option, the Viper Mini is lightweight, ambidextrous, and boasts a high-performance sensor.
- Microsoft Pro IntelliMouse: A classic reborn, this wired mouse provides comfort, precision, and a bit of nostalgia for longtime PC gamers.
Important Note: Remember, Xbox Cloud Gaming is a beta feature, so expect some quirks and limitations. Not all games currently support mouse and keyboard, and the experience may vary depending on your connection and device.
The Future of Xbox Cloud Gaming
This update signals Microsoft’s commitment to providing a truly platform-agnostic gaming experience. Whether you’re on your PC, phone, tablet, or even a smart TV, you can now enjoy the flexibility and precision of mouse and keyboard controls in the cloud. This is just the beginning, and we’re excited to see how this feature evolves in the future.
What are your thoughts on mouse and keyboard support for Xbox Cloud Gaming? Share your experiences and favorite gear in the comments below!
Stay Tuned for news on the Xbox Games Showcase and the Call of Duty Black Ops Direct on Sunday, June 9!
