Xbox has been expanding its dominion over the gaming industry in rather unique ways lately. The ‘Everything Is An Xbox’ initiative aims to launch Xbox titles on all devices—including the quirky kind, such as LG Smart TVs. Obviously, this uses a form of cloud gaming, but it is still an impressive endeavor regardless.
Macs have traditionally shied away from gaming-oriented workloads, but things seem to be changing, with Apple directly pushing for the release of multiple AAA titles on its storefronts. This does beg the question: Will Xbox Cloud Gaming work on a Mac? Read on to learn more.
How to use Xbox Cloud Gaming on Macs
Yes, it is entirely possible to use Xbox Cloud Gaming on Macintoshes. The process does come with a few drawbacks, but the end result is most certainly worth it. Cloud gaming is our only option here, as Macs cannot play Windows games natively.
Using Crossover to play Windows games on Mac | Image Credits: Crossover
While it is most certainly possible to play certain Windows-only titles using programs such as Crossover, Xbox Game Pass remains a Windows-only program, with no way to launch it on alternative operating systems such as macOS and Linux.
With that in mind, you will first require a compatible browser. Safari is recommended for best results—it comes pre-installed on all Macs, is lightweight, and is wholly compatible with Xbox Cloud Gaming.
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With Safari up and running, head to this URL. Sign in using your Microsoft/Xbox account and provide authentication details if necessary. Once signed in, make sure your region actually supports Xbox Cloud Gaming.
Assuming that it is supported, simply select a game and start playing! Do keep in mind that you will require a controller to play, assuming you lack a touch-capable device (or do not want to bother with the objectively horrid touch controls).
Newer Macs should offer a superior experience | Image Credits: Apple
Additionally, make sure to have a fast and stable internet connection before you begin playing. Using an Ethernet connection (wired) over a wireless one is recommended, especially if it runs on mobile data, whose connectivity can be a bit irregular at times.
As this service basically streams all your games, hardware specifications don’t really make much of a difference here. Having a faster internet connection is thus more important. However, newer Macs do come with better displays, which can help augment the experience.
Additionally, try using the Microsoft Edge browser as well, instead of Safari, for better results.
While it technically works, a native app would be much appreciated
While this method works rather seamlessly, it still runs through a browser at the end of the day. Xbox Cloud Gaming still lacks a native app for macOS, which is quite unfortunate to see.
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Having a native macOS app would appeal to a wider audience, in addition to making the whole process a lot simpler for everyone. Having to fire up a compatible browser can make things a bit more complicated.
It is hoped that Microsoft will develop a suitable native Xbox app for macOS, much like the iOS version, and allow gamers to access their libraries seamlessly.
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