Meta has announced a partnership with Microsoft to bring a starter edition of Xbox Game Pass to Horizon+, Meta’s VR subscription service. The integration will enable Quest users to access a library of over 50 non-VR Xbox titles via cloud streaming, with the rollout of Xbox gamepad emulation for Quest Touch controllers also planned in the coming weeks. This development marks a significant expansion of Horizon+’s gaming capabilities, offering more traditional gaming options within Xbox Game Pass.

Meta’s partnership with Microsoft introduces a ‘starter’ Xbox Game Pass tier to Horizon+, providing access to a library of more than 50 non-VR games such as Fallout 4, Fallout 76, Overcooked 2, Grounded, DayZ, and Deep Rock Galactic. This addition effectively increases Horizon+’s current library of over 100 VR titles by approximately 50%, offering users a broader gaming experience. The starter plan includes 10 hours of cloud gaming per month, which can be streamed directly to Quest via Meta’s platform, or downloaded and streamed from an Xbox console or Windows PC without limit.

Additionally, Meta is rolling out Xbox gamepad emulation for Quest Touch controllers, allowing users to play Xbox titles without needing a separate Bluetooth-connected controller. This feature will be available in the coming weeks, according to Meta. It is important to note that these cloud-based Xbox games are played on a virtual flat screen within VR and are not adapted for VR immersion, with the screen size adjustable up to 26 feet.

Implications for VR Gaming and Cloud Streaming

This development broadens the gaming options available to Quest users by integrating traditional Xbox titles into a VR environment. It also demonstrates Meta’s efforts to position Horizon+ as a versatile platform supporting both VR and non-VR gaming, potentially attracting a wider audience. The addition of cloud gaming and gamepad emulation may increase competitiveness with PC-based VR systems and services like Steam Frame, especially as Meta advances its smart glasses and AI initiatives. However, the 10-hour monthly cloud gaming limit may restrict casual use, and the non-VR nature of these Xbox games means they do not provide an immersive VR experience.

This move highlights a trend toward integrating traditional gaming with VR platforms, emphasizing cloud streaming as a key feature. It also prompts discussion about the future balance between native VR titles and cloud-based, flat-screen experiences within VR environments.

Background on Horizon+ and Xbox Cloud Gaming Integration

Meta’s Horizon+ is a subscription-based VR service that offers a library of VR titles, with ongoing efforts to expand its features and content. In 2023, Meta first introduced Xbox cloud gaming to Quest, providing a limited selection of titles playable via streaming. The current update builds on this by offering a ‘starter’ version of Xbox Game Pass, which provides a curated library of non-VR games accessible through cloud streaming. The partnership with Microsoft reflects Meta’s strategy to incorporate more traditional gaming into its VR ecosystem, competing with platforms like Steam Deck and Steam Frame, which emphasize local and streamed PC gaming.

Prior to this, Meta had focused on native VR titles and social experiences, with limited support for traditional gaming. The move to include Xbox cloud gaming marks a shift towards more versatile gaming options, although the service remains limited to a subset of titles and hours unless users purchase higher-tier subscriptions.

“Meta is excited to bring Xbox Game Pass to Horizon+ users, expanding their gaming options with cloud streaming and controller support.”

— an anonymous Meta spokesperson

Unclear Details About Full Access and Future Expansions

It is not yet confirmed whether the 10-hour cloud gaming limit will be increased in future updates or if additional tiers of Xbox Game Pass will be supported within Horizon+. The exact timeline for the rollout of Xbox gamepad emulation remains unspecified, and it is unclear how these features will evolve to offer more immersive or native VR experiences. Additionally, the long-term integration of Xbox titles versus native VR games has yet to be clarified, especially regarding potential offline downloads or VR-optimized versions.

Upcoming Rollout and Potential Feature Enhancements

Meta plans to roll out the Xbox gamepad emulation feature in the coming weeks, enabling users to play Xbox titles more comfortably. Future updates may include increased cloud gaming hours, expanded game libraries, and possibly VR-specific adaptations of Xbox games. Staying tuned to Meta’s official channels will be important to track these developments and any new gaming options. Clarifications regarding higher-tier Xbox Game Pass subscriptions integrated into Horizon+ or remaining separate are also anticipated.

Key Questions

Will I be able to play Xbox games offline on Quest?

No, the current setup only supports cloud streaming. Offline play requires downloading games to an Xbox console or Windows PC.

How many Xbox games will be available through Horizon+?

Initially, over 50 non-VR Xbox titles will be accessible via cloud streaming, with the library potentially expanding in future updates.

Is the Xbox Game Pass included in Horizon+ free?

The ‘starter’ version of Xbox Game Pass is included with Horizon+ at no extra cost, offering 10 hours of cloud gaming per month. Full Xbox Game Pass subscriptions are separate.

Will the cloud games be VR-optimized?

No, these games are played on a virtual flat screen and are not VR-native, meaning they lack immersive VR features.

When will the Xbox gamepad emulation be available?

Meta has announced the feature will be rolled out in the coming weeks, but an exact date has not yet been specified.

Source: Road to VR