How to play Xbox games on Windows 11

Xbox Cloud Gaming, part of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, allows you to stream games directly to your PC without the need for installation (Image: Canva)

Playing Xbox games on Windows 11 is easier than ever, thanks to Microsoft’s integrated ecosystem. This seamless experience allows gamers to enjoy their favorite titles on both platforms without the need for additional hardware.

Play Xbox games on Windows 11

Xbox App Integration

Windows 11 comes with a pre-installed Xbox app, which serves as the hub for all things Xbox. Here’s how to use it:

Install the Xbox App:

Open the Microsoft Store from the Start menu.

Search for the Xbox app.

Click on Install and follow the on-screen instructions.

Sign In:

Launch the Xbox app from the Start menu or taskbar.

Sign in with your Microsoft account (the same account you use on your Xbox console).

Browse and Install Games:

Navigate through the app to explore available games.

Click the games you want to install.

Select Install and choose the installation location if prompted.

Xbox Game Pass for PC

For a vast library of games at your disposal, consider subscribing to Xbox Game Pass for PC. Here’s how to get started:

Subscribe to Xbox Game Pass:

Open the Xbox app.

Navigate to the Game Pass tab.

Click on Join and follow the subscription process.

Explore the Library:

Browse the extensive catalog of games available with Game Pass.

Download and install games directly through the Xbox app.

Xbox Cloud Gaming

Xbox Cloud Gaming, part of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, allows you to stream games directly to your PC without the need for installation. Here’s how to access it:

Subscribe to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate:

Upgrade your Xbox Game Pass subscription to Ultimate.

Ensure you have a stable internet connection.

Access Cloud Gaming:

Open the Xbox app.

Navigate to the Cloud Gaming section.

Select a game and click Play to start streaming.

Xbox Play Anywhere Titles

Some games are part of the Xbox Play Anywhere program, allowing you to purchase a game once and play it on both Xbox and PC. Here’s how it works:

Purchase a Play Anywhere Title:

Buy the game from the Microsoft Store on either Xbox or Windows 11.
Install on Windows 11:

Open the Microsoft Store on your PC.

Search for the game you purchased.

Click Install to download and play the game on your PC.

Streaming from Xbox Console to PC
If you already own an Xbox console, you can stream games from your console to your PC. Here’s how:

Enable Streaming on Xbox:

Go to Settings > Devices and Connections > Remote Features on your Xbox console.

Enable the Remote Features option and ensure Instant-On is selected under Power Mode.

Set Up the Xbox App on PC:

Open the Xbox app on Windows 11.

Click on the console icon.

Select your Xbox console from the list and click Connect.

Connecting an Xbox Controller
To fully enjoy Xbox games on your PC, using an Xbox controller is highly recommended. Here’s how to connect it:

Via USB:
Plug your Xbox controller into your PC using a USB cable. The drivers should install automatically.

Via Bluetooth:

Turn on your Xbox controller and press the pairing button.

Go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth and Other Devices on Windows 11.

Select Add Bluetooth or Other Device and choose your Xbox controller from the list.

By following these steps, you can easily enjoy Xbox games on your Windows 11 PC, whether through the Xbox app, Game Pass, Cloud Gaming, or streaming from your console. This integration enhances your gaming experience, providing flexibility and access to a wide range of titles.