Xbox Cloud Gaming, formerly Project xCloud, introduced Xbox gamers with an easy way to play their favorite titles via streaming, whether they’re using a PC, Xbox One, or even a smartphone or tablet. The service has had some criticism but has generally been well received, but still has some shortcomings.
One of the most notable is the lack of keyboard and mouse support. While most Xbox gamers are already used to using their controller to play games directly on Xbox or through the Xbox Cloud Gaming streaming service, it’s a feature some are still looking forward to.
Fortunately for those gamers, there is now an official confirmation that keyboard and mouse support is in the works. Xbox software engineer Morgan Brown confirmed the news, noting that developers could implement the controls now, but global support was still in the works. In the future, gamers will be able to use their mouse and keyboard to control all Xbox Cloud Gaming games if they choose. This is in keeping with the Xbox consoles themselves, as they received keyboard and mouse support some time ago.
Unfortunately, Brown didn’t offer any information on exactly when the functionality would be released, so there’s still time to wait. While this is likely to disappoint some fans, especially those used to PC gaming mouse and keyboard, some gamers may be glad it’s not quite ready yet, or would prefer it not happen at all.
While not always the case, some games show a significant advantage in control when using a keyboard and mouse tuned to the user’s specifications. This often creates conflict when games appeal to players from both PC and consoles, as one often ends up with a potential advantage over the other. With Xbox Cloud Gaming gaining keyboard and mouse controls, it’s possible that this issue will escalate as it could even affect games that don’t normally allow cross-system play.
However, this move will likely open up the appeal of Xbox Cloud Gaming for additional players. Although Microsoft has also brought a host of Xbox games to Windows PCs, not all games have made the leap. Buying at the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate tier costs significantly less than buying a new console, as long as the player can even find an Xbox Series X, as well as the games themselves. PC gamers who are interested in exclusive Xbox titles may end up joining the service once the feature launches.
