Xbox Game Pass Ultimate & Shadow PC: what are the differences between the two solutions?

Microsoft is well-known for its vast catalog of games included in its Game Pass service, with the option to play some of them via cloud gaming thanks to the Ultimate offer. What are the differences between Game Pass and Shadow PC? Here’s what you need to know.

Game Pass: a massive game library with limited cloud gaming experience

Microsoft's Game Pass is renowned for its extensive library, featuring hundreds of titles including iconic franchises like Halo, The Elder Scrolls, Age of Empires, Gears of War... The service allows you to install games locally on your Xbox console or a local PC, but some can also be played from any device via cloud gaming. The experience is quite different from other services, as Game Pass players are connected to the equivalent of an Xbox console in the cloud. This means you can only play the console versions of the games, which do not support mods (except in some rare games) and require the use of a supported controller, or the emulation of an Xbox controller via touch screen on smartphones and tablets. The Game Pass Cloud service only supports one controller at a time, meaning local multiplayer games with friends on a single screen are not possible.

Shadow PC: all the games you love without restrictions, and much more

Shadow PC allows you to access a complete Windows environment in the cloud, enabling you to install absolutely any game you own from any platform or online store (Steam, Epic Games, GOG, Game Pass, etc.) and play them on any device. Since these games are installed on a full PC, you can enhance your experience as you wish with mods and custom shaders, and play them however you like. Mouse and keyboard, game controllers, racing wheels, or joysticks… Play with the controllers you prefer, and connect as many as you want. You can even play VR games! Additionally, Shadow PC is not limited to games: you can install any software to use the power of your Shadow PC to run resource-intensive applications such as photo and video editing software.

Shadow PC, much more than just gaming

With Shadow PC, use your machine for much more than just gaming. Want to play cooperatively? Install Discord and join your friends in-game. Want to edit your family photos or do rendering? Just download and install the software of your choice.

Why choose Shadow PC?

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With Shadow PC, you can connect your USB peripherals to your cloud PC from your local PC. So, you can directly use all your game controllers (gamepad, steering wheel, and joystick) in your games.

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Access a library of games only available in the cloud on Shadow PC. Discover innovative titles and unique experiences without the hardware constraints of your local PC. Experience exceptional adventures, optimized for cloud gaming with Shadow PC.

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Shadow PC gives you the flexibility to add external files to your games. Whether it's mods, texture packs, or saves, enjoy the ease of installation directly on your Shadow PC.

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Enter a new dimension with Shadow PC and VR. Connect your headset to your Shadow PC and dive into immersive worlds without worrying about your local hardware's power. VR finally becomes accessible to everyone, everywhere.

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Transform your living room into a real gaming room. Use your smartphone as a controller with companion mode to play on your TV. A comfortable and friendly gaming experience on the big screen, directly from your couch.

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You can easily drag and drop files from your local PC to your Shadow PC. You can also right-click on your Shadow PC to transfer files locally and retrieve your saves or projects.

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Whether on an iPad, iPhone, or even an Android tablet, Shadow PC allows you to enjoy the quality and power of a gaming PC in the cloud, thus accessible everywhere, on all your compatible devices. All you need is a good internet connection, launch the Shadow PC app, and you're set.

Connect anywhere with any device

You can enjoy the best streaming performances thanks to Shadow PC's apps, available on all platforms. Enjoy NOW Shadow PC in your browser!

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Windows

macOS

Ubuntu

Raspberry Pi

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Mobile, TV and VR

iOS

tvOS

Android

Android TV

Meta Quest