How to stream games using PC Game Pass

Play Xbox games whenever and wherever you want on your Windows PC, no Xbox console required. Learn how to use PC Game Pass¹ to stream Xbox games on your PC.

Why stream games on a PC?

Streaming helps you sample games without having to keep track of a physical disc. Streaming games is also known as cloud gaming. You can access games in cloud-based servers, like PC Game Pass. With the Game Pass library, you have a universe of games right at your fingertips to pick up and play whenever you want.

Streaming games on your PC can be helpful if you have older equipment that isn’t quite compatible for newer games or if you don’t have a dedicated gaming computer or setup. That way, you’re only paying for a subscription to a service rather than the costs of physical games and hardware.

While you can stream games on your phone, tablet, or other handheld devices, a PC can help heighten the overall gaming experience with stronger, clearer visuals and sound quality. That said, streaming can help you play games far away from home, on the go, or wherever you feel most comfortable.

How to get started streaming the PC Game Pass way

First, make sure PC Game Pass is available in your area and that you have purchased a subscription plan. Your PC will need Windows 10 or higher in order to stream games. In 2021, Microsoft introduced an update that also made streaming available through the Xbox app. You can download the Xbox app for Windows from the Microsoft Store to get started streaming.

Save time from having to download additional apps when you upgrade to Windows 11. PC Game Pass is built into Windows 11 via the Xbox app. You’ll want to make sure that your Microsoft Store account and your Xbox account are linked. Then, launch the Xbox app and hit the “cloud gaming” button. You should be able to access all your previous titles through the Xbox app, plus browse whatever is available on Game Pass at the time.

You can also access the Xbox cloud gaming website via Microsoft Edge and set up an Edge gaming homepage. Take advantage of Microsoft Edge gaming-specific features such as Clarity Boost, Efficiency Mode, and Controller Bar to take your streaming experience to the next level.

When you combine the power of streaming with the power of PC Game Pass, amazing things—and hours of videogaming magic—can result.