Does Backbone Work with PS5 and Xbox? The Ultimate Guide
Yes, the Backbone One controller is designed to work seamlessly with both PlayStation 5 (PS5) and Xbox consoles, but in different ways. It’s not a direct controller replacement for either console in the traditional sense. Instead, it’s a mobile gaming controller that bridges the gap, allowing you to play your console games remotely on your smartphone. This is achieved through features like PS Remote Play, Xbox Remote Play, and compatibility with cloud gaming services. Let’s dive deeper into how the Backbone works with each platform, and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this versatile gaming accessory.
How Backbone Connects You to PS5 and Xbox
The Backbone One controller doesn’t directly pair with your PS5 or Xbox console as a standard controller would. Instead, it works in conjunction with remote play applications and cloud gaming services.
Playing PS5 Games with Backbone
The Backbone One – PlayStation Edition (specifically designed for PlayStation) for Android and iPhone 15 Series is your ticket to playing PS5 games on the go. Using the PS Remote Play app, you can stream your PS5 games to your smartphone, and use the Backbone controller for accurate and responsive gameplay. Here’s the breakdown:
- Remote Play: Your PS5 needs to be powered on or in rest mode and connected to the internet. You also need a stable internet connection on your phone (via Wi-Fi or cellular data).
- Backbone App: The Backbone app helps manage your game library and provides a dedicated launcher for games and services like PS Remote Play.
- No Direct Connection: The Backbone doesn’t connect directly to your PS5 console. It pairs with your phone and uses it as the main control device.
- Anywhere Access: As long as you have a stable internet connection, you can play your PS5 games remotely from anywhere.
Playing Xbox Games with Backbone
Similarly, the Backbone One allows you to play Xbox games remotely. You can use Xbox Remote Play or Xbox Cloud Gaming (via Xbox Game Pass).
- Xbox Remote Play: Any game installed on your Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, or Xbox One can be played remotely using the Xbox app and the Backbone controller.
- Xbox Cloud Gaming: If you subscribe to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, you can stream games directly from the cloud using the Backbone One.
- Similar Setup: Like PS Remote Play, you need a stable internet connection and an active subscription (for cloud gaming) to play Xbox games on your phone.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: The Backbone One works seamlessly with the Xbox app and cloud gaming, providing a unified experience across different platforms.
Backbone as a Versatile Controller
It’s important to note that the Backbone isn’t limited to remote play. It can be used with any game on your phone that supports controller input. This opens up a vast library of mobile games and services. Plus, the backbone will continue to work as a controller, with software updates available through the app even without a subscription.
Backbone Design
The Backbone One boasts a design inspired by the PS DualSense controller, making it a comfortable and familiar option for PlayStation fans. It’s also a versatile controller that works with Xbox and other platforms, enhancing the mobile gaming experience beyond just remote play.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to help you better understand how the Backbone works with PS5 and Xbox:
1. Can Backbone play Xbox and PS5 games?
Yes, the Backbone One can play both PS5 and Xbox games, but through remote play and cloud gaming services. It doesn’t directly connect to the consoles as a standard controller.
2. Can you use PlayStation Backbone with Xbox Game Pass?
Yes, Xbox Game Pass is fully compatible with the Backbone One controller and the Backbone App. You can use the Backbone to play Xbox cloud gaming titles via the app, provided you have an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription.
3. Can you connect a PS5 controller to Xbox, and vice versa?
Directly connecting a PS5 controller to an Xbox (or an Xbox controller to a PS5) requires a special adapter such as a Wingman Xbox Converter or a CronusMAX PLUS adapter. These act as a go-between to translate the signals between the different consoles and controllers. Without an adapter, direct pairing is not possible.
4. Are PS5 controllers cross-compatible?
PS5 controllers are not directly compatible with PS4 consoles. You’ll need a Bluetooth adapter, like the Mayflash Magic-S Pro, to use a PS5 controller on a PS4.
5. Can I use my PlayStation Backbone anywhere? Do I have to be home to use PS Remote Play?
No, you do not have to be home. As long as you have a stable internet connection on your phone (via Wi-Fi or cellular data), and your PS5 is on or in rest mode, you can access and play your games anywhere using the PS Remote Play app and your Backbone controller.
6. Does Backbone work with Xbox Cloud Gaming?
Yes, Xbox Cloud Gaming is fully compatible with the Backbone One controller and the Backbone App. If you have an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, you can stream games directly from the cloud to your phone using the Backbone.
7. Why won’t my Backbone connect to my PS5?
Connection issues with PS5 remote play usually stem from network problems or issues with the PS5 console itself. To troubleshoot this, reset your network connection, check for available updates on both the PS5 console and the Remote Play app, and ensure your network meets the minimum requirements for remote play.
8. Do I need a PS5 to use Backbone?
No, you do not need a console to use a Backbone, but you will need a PS5 if you want to use the PS Remote Play feature. The Backbone can be used to play hundreds of controller-compatible games on your smartphone.
9. Can you play any Xbox game on Backbone?
Yes, any game installed on your Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, or Xbox One can be played remotely with the Backbone via Xbox Remote Play. You can even download new games remotely using the Xbox app and play them later on your phone.
10. What devices does the PS5 Backbone work on?
The Backbone One PlayStation® Edition is compatible with Android phones (Android 10.0 or later, with USB-C and USB OTG) and the iPhone 15 Series. Folding phones are not officially supported.
11. How do I add my PS5 games to my Backbone?
To add a game, ensure the Backbone app is active before you launch the game. Once the game is running, press the Backbone button to add it to your Backbone launcher. This works with services like Xbox and PlayStation Remote play.
12. Do you need a console for Xbox Backbone?
No, you do not need a console to play games on your phone with the Backbone, but you do need an Xbox console if you want to use the Xbox Remote Play feature.
13. Can I play Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 on Backbone?
Yes, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 is compatible with the Backbone One controller and the Backbone App. You can enjoy the game remotely on your phone.
14. How much is the Backbone subscription?
New users receive one free year of Backbone+ access. After that, the subscription costs approximately $50 per year. However, the Backbone controller will continue to function normally without a subscription, you just won’t have access to the companion app’s features.
15. Can you play PS5 Remote Play away from home?
Yes, with the PS Remote Play app, you can control your PS5 console remotely from anywhere with a high-speed internet connection, as long as your console is powered on or in rest mode.
Conclusion
The Backbone One controller is a powerful and versatile tool that enhances mobile gaming, allowing you to play your favorite console games on the go. By leveraging remote play features and cloud gaming services, the Backbone provides a convenient and immersive gaming experience for both PS5 and Xbox users. It’s not just a controller; it’s a bridge that connects your console gaming experience to your mobile device. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or someone looking to enjoy console-quality games on your smartphone, the Backbone One offers a unique and compelling solution.