Cloud gaming on mobile is experiencing a new spring thanks to the recent technical improvements of Xbox Cloud Gaming, and Backbone responds to the call with its new generation controller designed specifically for this gaming mode. I
The Backbone Pro Xbox Edition presents itself as the definitive solution for those who want to transform their smartphone into an Xbox portable console, making the most of the potential of Microsoft’s streaming service which has finally abandoned the beta label and now supports 1440p resolution with a significantly improved video coding algorithm. It is no coincidence that this launch comes just as Xbox Cloud Gaming expands into new markets such as India and offers performance that is increasingly closer to that of NVIDIA GeForce Now.
The controller represents the evolution of the Backbone range and was born from a rather demanding development process: the company claims to have conducted over 30 user research studies and tested more than 9000 iterations of components to perfect ergonomics and balance.
The result is an extremely light device weighing just 199 grams, equipped with Hall Effect trigger for greater precision and durability over time. The telescopic structure with interchangeable inserts ensures compatibility with a wide range of smartphones and other mobile devices.
The real innovation of the Backbone Pro lies in the dual USB-C and Bluetooth connectivity, a design choice that eliminates one of the main problems of mobile cloud gaming: latency. When used in wired mode, either with the phone inserted directly into the controller or via USB-C cable, the device eliminates the minimal fraction of delay introduced by the wireless connection, offering an experience more similar to that of a traditional console. This fits perfectly with the recent latency improvements Microsoft has implemented on Xbox Cloud Gaming, which is currently rolling out globally.
Wireless connectivity has not been overlooked and opens up particularly interesting alternative use scenarios. With Bluetooth enabled, the Backbone Pro can be used with cloud gaming-enabled Samsung smart TVs, Meta Quest headsets for VR experiences, Amazon Fire Sticks, tablets, and any other screen that can’t physically dock with the controller itself. In this mode, the declared autonomy reaches 40 hours of continuous use, a more than respectable value for prolonged gaming sessions.
Backbone’s companion app proves to be a distinctive element of the ecosystem, solving one of the most frustrating problems for those who use controllers on multiple devices: continuous re-pairing. The application stores all previously paired devices and allows you to quickly switch between different platforms without having to repeat the pairing procedure each time, a significant advantage considering how cumbersome this process can be with the latest generation standard Xbox controllers. The app also integrates direct shortcuts to popular services like Xbox Cloud Gaming, Xbox Remote Play, PlayStation Remote Play, Steam Link, and even native mobile titles like Minecraft and Fortnite.
The package includes a free month of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to test out the cloud service before committing to the subscription, although Xbox Cloud Gaming is now also accessible from the service’s cheaper tiers. It’s worth remembering that Xbox Remote Play remains free but requires a fairly robust network connection, preferably 5 GHz Wi-Fi, as well as obviously having an Xbox Series X|S or Xbox One console from which to stream.
The Backbone Pro Xbox Edition is available today on Amazon USA at a price of $169.99, positioning it at the high end of the mobile controller market. There is also the cheaper Backbone One model at 129.99 euros also in Italy, which however sacrifices Bluetooth support by limiting the connectivity options. The price is certainly not accessible to everyone, but for those planning intensive multi-platform cloud gaming sessions, the investment could be justified by the superior construction quality, the refined ergonomics and the versatility of use compared to the cheaper alternatives on the market.
