Microsoft has rolled out significant updates to the Xbox Cloud Gaming platform, enabling players to launch Assassin's Creed games directly from an in-game hub, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

This update is part of a broader initiative to expand Game Pass support, allowing players to stream more titles, including the newly added Assassin's Creed Shadows, provided they own a copy.

In addition to Assassin's Creed Shadows, new titles available for streaming include Gotham Knights, Party Animals, and Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, among others.

To complement these updates, Microsoft has launched the Backbone One Xbox Edition controller, designed for seamless streaming of Game Pass games on mobile devices, featuring a layout akin to the Xbox One controller.

However, it's important to note that this controller does not support devices requiring a Lightning Cable and is incompatible with Bluetooth, although it works well with various Android games.

On March 27, 2025, Microsoft also announced a new update for the Windows Game Bar, which now features a cleaner user interface with improved navigation for controller users.

This update aims to enhance the user experience in Compact Mode on PCs and Windows Handhelds, making it more suitable for smaller screens.

The Game Bar's new design includes a more muted appearance and faster access to tools like the Capture and Performance widgets, streamlining navigation.

Notably, the Game Bar update coincides with a UI refresh from Discord, which has improved spacing and introduced a full dark mode overlay.

Both the Game Bar and Discord now allow users to access widgets while gaming, significantly enhancing the user experience.

Furthermore, Microsoft is incentivizing Xbox Game Pass subscribers by offering free in-game items and currency for select free-to-play games, encouraging more players to consider subscribing.

These recent changes reflect Microsoft's commitment to ongoing improvements, with more visual enhancements expected in the coming weeks.