Recently, I delved into cloud gaming by using an Xbox Game Pass equipped Samsung smart TV for a week, streaming all my Xbox games through the cloud. The experience exceeded my expectations, paving the way for a potential integration of a Game Pass-enabled smart TV in a multi-TV home setup.
Coinciding with my experiment was Xbox’s expansion to the Amazon Fire TV streaming sticks. Now, Game Pass is accessible on select Fire TV devices, eliminating the need for a console or specific smart TV to enjoy Game Pass on a large screen.
However, similar to other cloud game streaming services, the experience is somewhat dependent on internet speed. While Fire sticks can provide a glimpse into the canceled Keystone project, there are notable concessions, as highlighted by my tests.
Lagging behind
Comparing my experiences with Xbox Game Pass on different platforms, I decided to test more intensive games on Fire TV, including Doom, Celeste, and Forza Motorsport. The results varied significantly, with Forza Motorsport showcasing the best performance and visual quality conducive to cloud streaming.
While Forza Motorsport demonstrated smooth gameplay and minimal lag, games like Celeste and Doom posed more challenges, with noticeable input lag and reduced visual fidelity compared to native gameplay experiences.
Despite some successful gameplay sessions, the overall experience highlighted potential issues with cloud gaming on Fire TV, including connectivity fluctuations and occasional crashes. The performance inconsistency raises concerns about recommending it wholeheartedly.
Despite the challenges, the Xbox Game Pass app on Fire TV offers a portable and affordable gaming option, ideal for certain games and situations. While it may not be a fully immersive experience, it presents a convenient solution for on-the-go gaming on a budget.
Looking forward, the emergence of more advanced gaming devices may render Fire TV sticks as a temporary solution. However, for now, they remain a practical choice for those looking to enjoy Xbox games on a TV without significant investment.
Ultimately, the decision to use the Xbox Game Pass app on Fire TV hinges on personal preferences and gaming needs. For a more robust gaming experience, the rumored Xbox handheld device may be a more suitable option.
