Microsoft and Meta have officially launched the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition, marking the first-ever limited edition release for the Meta Quest line and a significant milestone in the ongoing partnership between the two tech giants. Announced by Lori Wright, Corporate Vice President, Gaming Partnerships and Business Development at Microsoft, this collaboration is designed to celebrate the expansion of Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta) on Meta Quest headsets and to bring the Xbox gaming experience to a new dimension.
A New Era for Xbox and Meta
Over the past several years, Xbox has steadily expanded its cloud gaming ecosystem, making it possible for players to enjoy their favorite games on more devices and in more places than ever before. The introduction of the Xbox app on Meta Quest was a pivotal moment, empowering users to play whenever and wherever they want. With the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition, Microsoft and Meta are taking this vision a step further, offering a headset that not only delivers incredible mixed reality experiences but also embodies the iconic Xbox aesthetic.
The Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition Bundle
Priced at $399.99 USD, the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition is available today and comes packed with everything you need to start gaming on a massive virtual display right out of the box. The bundle includes:
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Custom 128GB Meta Quest 3S headset in Xbox Carbon Black and Velocity Green
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Matching Touch Plus controllers
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Limited-edition Xbox Wireless Controller
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Elite Strap
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3 months of Meta Horizon+
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3 months of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
The headset’s design is a clear nod to Xbox’s signature style, featuring a sleek Carbon Black chassis with vibrant Velocity Green accents. The included Xbox Wireless Controller matches the headset’s look, with green highlights on the face buttons and analog sticks. Notably, the controller comes pre-paired with the headset for instant setup.
Xbox Cloud Gaming on Meta Quest
With the Xbox app on Quest, players can instantly access hundreds of games via Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta). Popular titles such as South of Midnight, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, and Avowed are available to Game Pass Ultimate members. Users can also stream select cloud-playable games they own, even if those titles aren’t included in Game Pass. The full list of supported games, which includes over 100 titles, can be found in the “Stream Your Own Game” collection.
Cross-play and cross-progression support ensure that your progress and achievements follow you across devices. Start a game on your Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition, continue on your console or PC, and never lose your place. This seamless integration offers a truly connected and flexible gaming experience.
Hands-On Review Roundup
To provide a comprehensive look at the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition, I’ve gathered impressions from leading tech reviewers and early adopters.
Windows Central: “A Huge Step Up”
Windows Central praised the Meta Quest 3S for its improved inside-out tracking and hand-tracking capabilities, which free up your hands for navigation and controller use. “The Elite Strap included is a huge step up above the regular Velcro fabric straps typically included in these headsets, and comes with a HoloLens-style dial for incremental adjustments. This is a vastly more comfortable option than previous VR headsets I’ve used, so kudos for that,” Jez Corden noted, highlighting the natural feel of controlling windows and the headset’s comfort during extended sessions. The review also pointed out that you can access Xbox Cloud Gaming without needing to enter a full immersive 3D environment, making it a more relaxed and accessible experience.
The Verge: “Immersive and Flexible”
The Verge spent a week testing the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition and was impressed by the updated setup process and the headset’s Xbox-inspired design. The reviewer enjoyed both the immersive Xbox app experience, which simulates a 26-foot virtual display, and the pass-through view that transforms Xbox games into an augmented reality experience. While the fully immersive experience revealed some shortcomings in Xbox Cloud Gaming’s lower bitrate and resolution (notably in games like Forza Horizon 5), the reviewer did not encounter significant lag during gameplay.
IGN: “A Premium Package”
IGN described the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition as “a premium package that delivers on both style and substance.” The review highlighted the headset’s build quality, the value of the included subscriptions, and the ease of setup. “This is the ultimate gift for any Xbox enthusiast looking to dive into VR,” IGN concluded.
Gizmodo: “Great Value, but with a Tradeoff”
Gizmodo called the bundle “a great value,” noting that the Elite Strap, Xbox controller, and three months of Game Pass Ultimate add significant value. However, the review pointed out that the Quest 3S’s displays don’t offer the highest resolution for a big-picture VR gaming experience. Lag and visual clarity can be issues if your internet connection isn’t stable, but for most users, the bundle is a compelling entry point into VR and cloud gaming.
Tom’s Guide: “Impressively Low Latency”
Tom’s Guide was initially skeptical but found that Microsoft has dramatically improved its cloud gaming performance. “This is my go-to for not just gaming on-the-fly in bed, but for long sessions at the hotel or my parents’ house,” the reviewer wrote. The bundle’s value was also highlighted, with the reviewer noting that it includes everything you need to get started with both Xbox Cloud Gaming and VR.
Road to VR: “A Good Deal”
Road to VR emphasized that the bundle is a good deal if you want to purchase everything separately, as it would otherwise cost around $490. The review also clarified that this is not Xbox’s answer to PlayStation VR—it’s a limited edition colorway of the standard Quest 3S with added accessories and subscriptions.
GamesRadar: “The Best VR Headset Package for Xbox Gamers”
GamesRadar called the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition “the best VR headset package for Xbox gamers,” noting that while it doesn’t change much from the original Quest 3S, the Xbox-ified color scheme and bundled goodies make it a standout. The review recommended the bundle for Xbox fans and those planning to use their headset for Game Pass cloud gaming.
Mixed Reality and Beyond
The Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition isn’t just for gaming. It offers a premium mixed reality experience, blending virtual and physical worlds for immersive entertainment, productivity, and social interactions. Whether you’re exploring virtual worlds, watching movies on a massive virtual screen, or collaborating with friends in VR, this headset is designed to deliver.
The included Elite Strap ensures comfort during extended sessions, while the Meta Horizon+ subscription offers access to exclusive content and experiences for three months.
Where to Buy
The Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition is available now at:
Quantities are extremely limited, so act fast if you want to secure this exclusive bundle.
Why This Matters for Gamers
The Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition represents a significant leap forward for cloud gaming and mixed reality. By combining the power of Xbox Cloud Gaming with the immersive capabilities of Meta Quest, Microsoft and Meta are redefining what it means to play and connect in the digital age.
This collaboration opens up new possibilities for gamers, offering unprecedented flexibility and access to a vast library of games. Whether you’re a die-hard Xbox fan, a VR enthusiast, or simply looking for the next big thing in entertainment, the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition is a must-have.
User Experience: What Sets It Apart
Early adopters and reviewers alike have highlighted several key features that set the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition apart:
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Comfort: The Elite Strap and balanced design make long gaming sessions comfortable.
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Design: The Xbox-inspired color scheme and matching accessories are a hit with fans.
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Value: The inclusion of Meta Horizon+ and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate adds significant value.
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Flexibility: Cross-play and cross-progression support allow seamless gaming across devices.
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Exclusivity: The limited edition nature makes it a collector’s item.
The Future of Gaming
The launch of the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition is more than just a new product—it’s a glimpse into the future of gaming. By combining the strengths of Xbox and Meta, Microsoft is paving the way for new forms of interactive entertainment and social experiences.
Whether you’re streaming the latest Xbox Game Pass Ultimate titles, exploring the ever-expanding world of VR, or simply looking for a unique piece of gaming hardware, the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition is a standout choice.
Final Thoughts
The Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation. With its sleek design, premium accessories, and seamless integration with Xbox Cloud Gaming, it offers a unique and compelling experience for gamers of all kinds.
Whether you’re looking to expand your gaming horizons, dive into VR, or simply own a piece of gaming history, the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition is the ultimate choice. Don’t miss your chance to own this limited edition device—available now while supplies last.
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