Xbox’s Project xCloud Beta Begins to Release in Western Europe

While North American users have been able to experiment and try Microsoft’s Project Cloud throughout the year, European users have stood by eagerly awaiting their chance to try the beta. It now appears as though the cloud gaming streaming service has hit a number of Western European countries.

Windows Central has confirmed that users can now enroll and take part in the beta. The report confirms that France and Germany are now eligible to stream a select catalogue of games on their Android phones and tablets.

In addition, the following countries are said to be included in the testing expansion:

  • Belgium
  • Denmark
  • Norway
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Netherlands
  • Finland

At this time, the Project xCloud beta supports over 50 games including Halo: Master Chief Collection, Gears 5, Devil May Cry 5, Tekken 7, and Madden 20. During the beta phase, Project xCloud is available to testers for no cost.

Users must register to be chosen to take part in the beta. Currently, Microsoft is only enrolling Android users in Western European countries. After being chosen, testers must have a WiFi or mobile data connection to play through the cloud. A Bluetooth enabled controller will also be required.

Alongside Project xCloud, the aforementioned countries will also be able to try out the Xbox Game Streaming platform, the direct console-to-mobile streaming service.

Having tested the Project xCloud beta in Canada since January, the service’s quality has been consistent throughout. Having a minimum connection speed of 10mbps is essential and offers a reliable playing experience. Longer loading times are to be expected but once controlling the game, inputs are fluid and graphics hold up surprisingly well on both Android and Apple devices.

Currently, there is no confirmation on when Project xCloud will leave its beta phase. The addition of the 11 Western European countries may signify that Microsoft is still on track for its intended 2020 launch. However, due to current global circumstances, that timeline could very well be adjusted.

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