The Razer Kishi is an excellent controller for Project xCloud gaming

The Razer Kishi basically turns your phone into a Nintendo Switch with its easily attachable controller ends. With proper buttons, joysticks, and triggers, you can leave the touchscreen behind and take advantage of AAA game releases through streaming services like Project xCloud. Getting the Kishi to work with Project xCloud is straightforward, but if you're not already signed up for the service, you'll have to follow the steps below to take advantage of it.

Superlative streamed gaming

• Best xCloud controller: Razer Kishi for Android ($80 at Amazon)
• Best streaming library: Xbox Game Pass Ultimate ($23 at Amazon)

Signing up for Project xCloud

As an invite-only preview beta, Project xCloud requires you to jump through some hoops to get access. So before starting that process, make sure you have what you need to take full advantage first:

• A compatible smartphone running Android version 6.0 or greater, with Bluetooth version 4.0+ enabled. Most Kishi-compatible phones will certainly have these, but it doesn't hurt to check your phone settings.
• A high-speed internet connection or mobile data plan. Microsoft suggests either 5GHz Wi-Fi or 10Mbps data speeds and up.

With those in hand, proceed with the following steps:

1. Register for Project xCloud.
   • You will need to create a Microsoft account if you don't already have one.
2. Wait for Microsoft to send you an email invitation.
   • The waiting period varies from person to person, and can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of months.
3. Install the Xbox Game Streaming (Preview) app
4. Go to the Project xCloud section of the app.
   • You can also use the Razer Kishi to play games you already own via your Xbox One, should you so desire.
5. Sign into the account associated with your xCloud invitation.

Using Razer Kishi with Project xCloud

Once you're signed up with Project xCloud, you'll find that pairing Kishi with the streaming platform should be more or less instantaneous. Razer designed its controller to be compatible with both Xbox Game Streaming and Project xCloud.

1. Slide your smartphone's USB-C port onto the USB-C connector on the Razer Kishi.
2. Pull out the left half of the Kishi so your phone can slot inside of it. A blue light indicator should turn on if you've successfully inserted your phone.
3. Open the Xbox Game Streaming (Preview) app. The app should automatically detect the connected Kishi.
4. Choose a game to stream to your phone, and start playing!

Kishi kills the competition

You can use a variety of Bluetooth-enabled controllers for Project xCloud, but the fact is that Bluetooth connectivity inevitably generates latency, which a wired USB-C connection eliminates for more responsive controls. Plus, as the Kishi runs on your phone's battery, you'll never need to charge your controller separately or burn through dozens of AA batteries. Add in its universal design for most Android phones, turning all of them into a mobile console, and it's easy to see why Razer Kishi is an excellent choice for Project xCloud and other streaming-based services.

Best xCloud controller

Razer Kishi for Android

$80 at Amazon

Near-universal compatibility

Kishi enables a wider group of Android gamers than ever before to access Microsoft's excellent games streaming service. Its ergonomic design, easy attachment process, and no-latency connection makes it a great choice for hardcore gaming on the go.

Best streaming library

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate

Expand your games list

$23 at Amazon $23 at Best Buy $25 at Walmart

Project xCloud has 50 excellent titles for free, but it doesn't match the sheer quantity of Game Pass Ultimate's 200+ titles. If you're still waiting for your xCloud invitation, or just want a wider option of games to stream and play with Kishi, Ultimate is an obvious purchase.