Microsoft opens up Xbox Cloud Gaming with new pay-as-you-go option

Microsoft is set to introduce a new pay-as-you-go option for Xbox Cloud Gaming, making it more appealing to casual gamers <source 80ab0c38-9bc>. Starting in November, individuals will be able to purchase cloud playtime hours directly through the Xbox Store and stream games they already own, without requiring a Game Pass subscription <source 80ab0c38-9bc>.

Pricing details have not been announced, but Microsoft states that available hours and purchasing options may vary by market once the change is implemented later this year <source 80ab0c38-9bc>. Currently, Xbox Cloud Gaming is accessible on phones, tablets, PCs, and select smart TVs, turning these devices into platforms for playing Xbox games without owning a console <source 80ab0c38-9bc>.

The new feature is targeted at occasional players and those with older hardware, allowing Xbox One owners to play Xbox Series X and S titles without purchasing new hardware, particularly useful in regions where consoles are scarce or expensive <source 80ab0c38-9bc>. Microsoft intends to continue adding more games to the cloud streaming service throughout the year, but the specific titles available at launch have not been disclosed <source 80ab0c38-9bc>.

Additionally, Microsoft will impose limits on cloud gaming for Game Pass subscribers, reducing playtime to five hours for Essential plan users, ten hours for Premium subscribers, and fifteen hours for Ultimate subscribers, marking a departure from the previously unlimited cloud gaming hours <source 80ab0c38-9bc>. This move could be perceived as unfavorable by many Game Pass subscribers, including the author, as the allowance for cloud gaming hours will be restricted <source 80ab0c38-9bc>.