Microsoft shocks with Amazon Fire TV: No Xbox Needed

Microsoft has launched Xbox Gaming on Amazon Fire TV, allowing gamers to enjoy Xbox games without needing a console. The service utilizes cloud gaming, and players need a compatible Fire TV stick, a Bluetooth-enabled wireless controller, and an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription. The accompanying advertisement leverages a playful homage to the Scream movies to highlight this feature. While this move aims to expand the Xbox audience, some hardcore fans worry it reflects a shift away from traditional consoles, especially as sales for the Xbox Series X and S lag behind competitors like the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch. Microsoft, however, remains committed to its consoles while also focusing on broader gaming access, highlighted by its $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard to strengthen its mobile gaming presence.

No, you do not need an Xbox console to play Xbox games on Amazon Fire TV. All you need is a compatible Fire TV stick, a Bluetooth-enabled wireless controller, and an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription to stream the games.

The move to bring Xbox Gaming to Amazon Fire TV signifies a significant shift towards cloud gaming and broadening the accessibility of Xbox games. Microsoft is positioning itself to compete in the growing streaming gaming market, similar to its strategy with Game Pass on mobile and PC. This approach echoes the broader industry trend towards cloud-based services, as seen with competitors like Nvidia GeForce Now and PlayStation Now.