Meta and Microsoft have officially launched the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition, a limited-edition virtual reality headset designed to celebrate Xbox Cloud Gaming. Priced at $399.99 USD, the bundle includes:
- A specially designed 128 GB Meta Quest 3S in sleek “Xbox Carbon Black” with velocity green accents
- Matching Meta Touch Plus controllers and a custom Xbox Wireless Controller
- An ergonomic Elite Strap
- Three months of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
- Three months of Meta Horizon+ membership
The headset is optimized for Xbox Cloud Gaming. It arrives pre-paired with the Xbox controller and boots directly into the Xbox app, which lets users stream over 100 Game Pass titles like Forza Horizon 5, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, and Avowed on a simulated 26-foot virtual display, or use a mixed-reality pass-through mode that overlays the game into the real world.
Though it carries a $100 premium over the standard Quest 3S, reviewers call it a “best value in VR.” What makes it worthwhile?
- The Elite Strap ($70 value) significantly improves comfort
- The custom Xbox controller ($65 value) adds convenience
- Three months of Game Pass Ultimate ($60 value) lets users jump right in
Windows Central praised it as “an excellent bargain for those looking to immerse themselves in VR,” noting that the internal hardware remains identical to the standard Quest 3S but the bundled extras create a compelling package.
- Being cloud-streamed content, visuals can sometimes appear blocky or compressed, as seen in titles like Forza Horizon 5, though lag remains minimal.
- Ownership of an Xbox controller and access to Game Pass Ultimate $19.99/month are required. While Microsoft includes three free months, ongoing streaming needs the subscription.
Available now in the U.S. and U.K., the headset is sold through:
- Meta’s online store
- Best Buy (U.S.)
- Argos and EE (U.K.)
However, Microsoft and Meta caution that this edition is extremely limited, urging interested gamers to act fast before it sells out.
The Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition delivers a stylish fusion of VR comfort, Xbox branding, and cloud gaming convenience. While it can’t deliver native VR graphics for Xbox titles, it offers portability and accessibility for gaming on the go or at home especially with a virtual mega-screen.
For Xbox fans and newcomers wanting a sleek, all-in-one gaming experience without buying a full console, this headset is a compelling pick just don’t delay. Stocks are limited, and once it’s gone, it’s gone.
