What a time to be alive! Microsoft has just completed another integration, this time an update to the shiny new Xbox Controller Bar that absolutely streamlines cloud gaming.
The bar is the newest addition to the gaming ecosystem on Windows 11, arriving earlier this year.
And with this latest update, it can launch any game via cloud streaming directly. This new convenience means that you can skip other menu options and go straight to your favorite title beamed down from the cloud.
This new functionality is now available for Insiders to test.
Microsoft formally announced this update to the world via a live stream on YouTube, which you can watch for more information.
Or, alternatively, just watch this video below:
Windows Insiders you can now launch cloud streaming games directly from the controller bar. Watch our webcast to find out more: https://t.co/W3IXbYGwif. Please file feedback in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under Gaming > Xbox Game Bar. pic.twitter.com/DA0J7GLaLs
— Windows Insider Program (@windowsinsider) August 31, 2022
This new functionality works by showing games as a menu in the controller bar. Once you select a game, you are taken through the launcher to select the play button, and you dive right in and enjoy the cloud streaming.
This is the first major update to this gaming feature, which debuted in May as part of build 22618, which was made available for Insiders.
It can be accessed via the Xbox button on an Xbox controller or by pressing Winkey + G on keyboards.
Microsoft also confirmed in the live stream that other game launchers will be compatible with the Controller Bar. And, logically, the list of games will be in order of most recently played, so that the most frequently accessed games stay on the bar the most.
Neat addition, this!
