Where the game runs
With Remote Play, the game runs on your Xbox One or Series X|S. XBPlayer receives video and audio from the console and sends your inputs back. You can keep playing on your phone while someone else uses the TV.
With Xbox Cloud Gaming, the game runs on the service’s hardware. You do not need your own console: choose an available game from the catalogue and stream it. In either mode, you install the app on your phone or tablet, not the console game itself.
Remote Play: get your console ready
Choose this mode for supported games installed on your Xbox. Enable remote features in the console settings, then sign in to XBPlayer with your Microsoft account and select your console.
Try your first connection at home. If you want to play elsewhere, check remote access before you leave; installing the app alone does not set it up. XBPlayer’s guided network checks can help you work through connection issues.
Cloud gaming: check your access
Open the cloud library, search by title or browse by genre, then select a game. You do not need to install it on your own console first.
Access depends on the cloud service, your region and your account. A game may require an eligible Game Pass subscription or another form of access. XBPlayer does not include games or subscriptions.
What affects responsiveness
Both modes depend on the connection. Your inputs need to reach the console or cloud service quickly, and the video needs to get back to you. Start with a familiar game and try moving, turning and a few quick button presses.
If the picture freezes or inputs feel delayed, check your network and background downloads. Then try adjusting video quality or bitrate in XBPlayer. Change one setting at a time and compare the results to find what works for your connection.