Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition: A Limited-Run Immersive Gaming Headset Built for Big-Screen Play

The Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition introduces a fully reimagined version of Meta’s mainstream VR/MR headset, tailored specifically for Xbox Game Pass and large-screen virtual gaming. The carbon-black colorway accented with velocity-green highlights distinguishes this model from the standard 3S while maintaining the lightweight frame and familiar sensor array. Enhanced with a premium Elite Strap included in the box, the headset offers improved stability, comfort, and long-session usability. A limited-edition Xbox controller and three-month subscriptions to both Game Pass Ultimate and Horizon Plus are also bundled, providing immediate access to cloud gaming and VR content.

The exterior includes the full set of tracking cameras and passthrough sensors positioned along the front panel, delivering sharp mixed-reality visuals. A small Xbox logo on the side adds a subtle collaborative detail. Core controls stay consistent with the 3S: a USB-C charging port, power button, passthrough action button, and onboard volume controls. Integrated speakers within the strap arms deliver directional audio that enhances immersion during games and media playback.

Refined Hardware and Upgraded Accessories

Although the internal hardware mirrors the standard Quest 3S, the Xbox Edition differentiates itself through its elevated accessory set. The Elite Strap replaces the original fabric headband and features a rigid support frame, adjustable rear dial, and stabilizing cradle for improved overall comfort. Touch Plus controllers adopt the same carbon-black finish with green accenting across the ABXY lettering, thumbstick detailing, and wrist straps. Haptic feedback and ergonomics remain consistent with the 3S.

The bundle includes a limited-edition Xbox controller designed in matching black and green. Its translucent trigger assembly and premium finish make it distinct from standard retail controllers. This controller serves as the primary input device for Game Pass cloud gaming within the headset and contributes to the value of the bundle.

Display, Lenses, and Visual Experience

The Quest 3S Xbox Edition features Fresnel lenses delivering 1832×1920 resolution per eye. Visual clarity is sharp, and full-color passthrough enables mixed-reality gameplay, environmental overlay, and anchored virtual screens. Users can position and resize screens anywhere in their physical environment, transforming any room into a virtual theater, workspace, or gaming lounge. The display remains fixed in spatial position even as the user walks around the room.

Switching from passthrough to full-immersion mode is instant. When passthrough is disabled, the environment fades to a dark, cinema-style setting focused solely on the virtual screen. Combined with near-ear directional speakers, the experience replicates the feel of sitting in front of a massive dedicated display.

Xbox Game Pass Integration and Cloud Gaming

A preinstalled Game Pass app enables access to cloud-streamed titles from Xbox’s library. Games such as Forza, Halo, Grand Theft Auto V, recently remastered releases, and numerous first-party or third-party titles can be launched directly from the headset. The included Xbox controller syncs seamlessly for intuitive navigation and gameplay.

Cloud gaming visuals are projected onto a large customizable virtual screen. Users can stretch the image to fill an entire wall or keep it smaller for a more traditional desktop-like layout. Passthrough mode allows visibility of surroundings while maintaining access to the virtual screen, while immersive mode removes distractions and creates a private theater-like environment.

In addition to Game Pass titles, the headset supports streaming for approximately one hundred owned Xbox games, including high-profile releases such as Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Cyberpunk 2077, and Hogwarts Legacy.

VR and MR Gameplay Capabilities

Beyond Xbox gaming, the headset retains the full VR and MR capabilities of the Quest platform. Users can access an extensive library of VR titles, from rhythm games like Beat Saber to story-driven experiences including Batman and Assassin’s Creed. Interactive mixed-reality applications take advantage of passthrough features, blending virtual content seamlessly with real-world surroundings.

Meta’s multitasking interface supports multiple floating windows, enabling users to browse, watch media, and run productivity apps simultaneously. The versatility of the Quest ecosystem remains intact, with the Xbox Edition simply expanding its capabilities through cloud gaming integration.

Daily Use and Environment Simulation

The ability to anchor screens throughout a physical room establishes a highly adaptable entertainment or productivity environment. Virtual screens remain fixed in space as users move, closely mimicking the experience of a wall-mounted TV or projector. Passthrough quality ensures spatial awareness, while immersive mode provides complete separation from the external environment when desired.

The headset’s spatial stability and large virtual screens enable movie viewing, multi-window multitasking, and productivity workflows in addition to gaming. This combination positions the device as both a personal entertainment hub and a mixed-reality workstation.

A Premium Bundle With Strong Value

Launching at $399, the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition sits above the standard model but includes substantial additions: the Elite Strap, the limited-edition Xbox controller, and three-month subscriptions to both Horizon Plus and Game Pass Ultimate. These items represent a significant combined value, and the exclusive colorway enhances the appeal of the bundle for Xbox-focused users. The headset offers a flexible solution for immersive entertainment, cloud gaming, and spatial computing within a compact, user-friendly platform.