Bethesda's Starfield has been one of the most anticipated games in a while and Samsung is now flexing one of its unique advantages over competing TV brands; the Xbox app.

Leading up to the release of the Xbox Series and PlayStation 5, you may recall that there were concerns among some about the future viability of console hardware, primarily because of the rapid advancements in mobile gaming.

These concerns did not come to fruition, but a new alternative to traditional console hardware is emerging, driven by none other than Xbox itself.


Xbox app on Samsung TVs
The Xbox app lets you play games directly on your TV via cloud gaming (streaming). At least if you own a recent TV model with a Samsung logo, because Samsung is currently the only TV maker to offer the Xbox as part of what looks like an exclusivity deal with Microsoft.

As a result, Samsung is the only TV maker that lets you play Starfield without a PC or console. You need an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate membership and a compatible game controller.


 Starfield and other games are available from the Xbox app on Samsung TVs. Photo: Samsung

- "For those with an active Xbox Game Pass membership, you can start playing Starfield on September 6 through the Samsung Gaming Hub on supported 2023 and 2022 Samsung TVs, monitors, and the Freestyle 2nd Gen portable projector. You can also play Starfield through the Xbox app on eligible 2021 TVs worldwide and – starting today – 2020 Samsung TVs in the US – no console required," said Microsoft.

The Xbox app is not available on older Samsung Smart TVs.

Also be aware that Xbox cloud gaming is currently limited to at maximum 1080p at 60fps without HDR and without Dolby Atmos.

The Xbox app is expected to come to other TV brands later.