Microsoft has begun shifting its Xbox Cloud Gaming servers away from Xbox One S and over to Series X hardware, providing improved visuals and load times for its streaming games.
Xbox Cloud Gaming has provided players with the ability to stream games, even on mobile devices, for some time, with Xbox One S hardware used with its servers. Changing over to the more powerful Xbox Series X likely will improve the experience across most, if not all, available titles. It also should support streaming to devices with larger screens.
The Verge’s Jay Peters noted that Dirt 5 shows improved load times and stable performance, while Forza Horizon 4 shows no change and is probably still running on the older system. Some Xbox Cloud games reportedly are loading faster, while others are offering upgraded graphics options in their menus.
Verge senior editor Tom Warren also has noticed improved visual settings for both Yakuza: Like a Dragon and Rainbow Six Siege.
Microsoft hinted at the changeover to Series X hardware when it announced several next-gen games for Game Pass. However, it has neither confirmed nor denied beginning a rollout of updated server hardware, telling The Verge, “We’re continuously testing new features and making improvements to create a better Xbox Cloud Gaming experience. We’ll have more to share soon about the upgrades we’re making to our Microsoft Datacenters.”
At the moment it appears as though only select games have been given the Series X treatment, but more are likely to be added over time.
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