Xbox Cloud Gaming Changes
Microsoft has announced that Xbox’s cloud gaming feature will see a significant shift in its pricing structure starting November. Here are the key updates:
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Time Limits Introduced: Previously marketed as offering “unlimited cloud gaming,” subscribers will now find monthly caps based on their Game Pass plan:
- Game Pass Ultimate: 15 hours
- Game Pass Premium: 10 hours
- Game Pass Essential: 5 hours
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Reason for Change: Microsoft states that this new model is necessary to manage increasing operational costs associated with cloud gaming, allowing continued investment in the service’s reliability and performance.
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Impact on Subscribers: Microsoft anticipates that only about 4% of Game Pass subscribers will be significantly affected by this change. Customers exceeding their limits can purchase additional hours through the Xbox Store.
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Feedback from Gamers: The response from the gaming community has been largely negative, with users expressing frustration over the limited hours, especially for those who frequently utilize the cloud gaming service.
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New Purchase Options: For non-subscribers, a new option to buy hours for cloud gaming will also be available, allowing them to stream eligible games on supported devices.
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Ad-Supported Version: Microsoft has been testing an ad-supported version of cloud gaming, expanding access beyond subscription models.
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Recent Price Drop: This announcement follows a recent reduction in Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass prices, yet gamers are still apprehensive about these new limitations.
About the Author
Michael Kan, a Principal Reporter at PCMag with over 15 years of experience, covers technology and internet services, focusing on the implications of cloud gaming and gaming hardware. For his full bio, check here.
