Xbox Officially Confirms Cloud Gaming’s New Pay-As-You-Go Prices

Xbox CEO Asha Sharma is undergoing a major restructuring, leading to the departure of nearly 2,000 employees and more layoffs set to occur between October and January. Alongside workforce reductions, Xbox Cloud Gaming has introduced a pay-as-you-go pricing model. This policy will commence in November, with prices now disclosed. Unlimited cloud gaming, previously a benefit for all Game Pass subscribers, will soon be limited to monthly time restrictions per tier.

Ultimate members receive 15 hours, Premium members get 10, and Essential members have 5 hours. After the allotted time expires, users must buy cloud playtime packs for continued access. These ad-free options cater to both subscribers and non-subscribers, with the least expensive pack costing $3.99 for 10 hours, the middle-priced pack at $7.99 for 25 hours, and the most expensive at $11.99 for 50 hours.

While it's unclear if Xbox Cloud Gaming time included with Game Pass is cumulative, purchased playtime remains linked to individual accounts and can be utilized anytime. Although ads-free cloud gaming is in the works, it remains exclusive to Xbox Insiders for now.