Xbox One users can now run Xbox Series X/S exclusives via Xbox Cloud Gaming, opening the door to a new approach to cross-gen compatibility

Microsoft recently rolled out Xbox Cloud Gaming for the Xbox One family. In over 25 regions where Cloud Gaming is currently supported, users will be able to stream Xbox Game Pass games, including a selection of next-gen exclusive titles like The Medium and The Riftbreaker. 

Not all next-gen titles are available to stream, but Microsoft is actively working to add in big names like Microsoft Flight Simulator. Bringing Xbox Cloud Gaming to the previous-gen Xbox One and Xbox One X raises important questions about the future of Microsoft's cross-gen console strategy. Until now, the Xbox Series X/S library has been characterized by a dearth of next-gen exclusives. The Medium is the only real AAA title that skips Xbox One support. Even Halo Infinite is set to launch on the Xbox One.

While games like Cyberpunk 2077 take advantage of next-gen platform features, supporting the eighth-gen consoles at a hardware level means having to make compromises in gameplay and level design to accommodate those 8-core Jaguar CPUs, outstripped even by modern smartphone chips. 

By rolling out Cloud Gaming support, Microsoft is presenting gamers with an alternative approach to cross-gen compatibility. Because the Xbox One's now able to stream games, they no longer have to be built around its hardware limitations. This means developers can focus on building games from the ground up for the Series X/S's superior hardware specs. It will be interesting to see how this pans out in the months to come.