Execution location first
| Route | Where the game runs | Core dependencies |
|---|---|---|
| Downloaded play | Locally on the console or PC | Compatible hardware, installation, entitlement; some games add network dependencies |
| Remote play | On your own Xbox console; video/input travel over a network | Your configured console, account, supported client and network path Source ↗ |
| Cloud gaming | On provider infrastructure | Eligible service/plan/title, supported region/device and network path Source ↗ |
01 / What this comparison cannot promise
Performance depends on the actual setup.
This comparison documents where each route runs and what it depends on. It does not predict latency or image quality for a particular network, device or region. Current cloud conditions belong to the living terms record.
Why the distinction matters
A title can be compatible for local play yet unavailable in a cloud catalog. Remote play can depend on your home console even when provider cloud gaming does not. Cross-save may matter to all three, but it is a separate right.
Method
Claims separate documented facts from interpretation and uncertainty. Read our method.
Updates
Material factual revisions are recorded publicly. View the correction log.