Xbox finds new way to charge cloud gaming subscribers for cloud gaming

Microsoft's newly introduced cloud gaming subscription is rapidly becoming more restrictive and costly for users. Just a year after making Xbox's unlimited cloud gaming accessible to a wider audience, the company has implemented stringent screen-time limitations. According to a recent announcement (via The Verge), Game Pass Ultimate subscribers are now granted 15 hours of gaming time, Premium subscribers 10 hours, and Essential subscribers a mere five.

Ultimate gamers desiring additional hours can purchase them through the Xbox Store. Microsoft has yet to disclose the exact price for these additional hours or the specific date when the restrictions will be enforced. The company attributes this change to the expenses associated with cloud gaming usage. Given Microsoft's history of repeatedly exploiting its customers, there is little sympathy for this move.

Initially, cloud gaming was exclusive to Ultimate subscribers, but it was expanded to Premium and Essential users last year. This development suggests that even the company's most devoted and financially powerful customers are now facing financial burdens. Anticipate future demands for additional subscriptions, such as a potential Co-Pilot service, to continue gaming.