Microsoft Cuts Cloud Gaming Limits for Game Pass Subscribers
Microsoft's Xbox cloud gaming service will introduce monthly limits on game streaming for Game Pass subscribers. This change affects around 4% of users and could increase costs for those who rely heavily on cloud gaming.
The new system, set to begin in November, will allocate a fixed number of hours per month: 15 hours for Ultimate subscribers, 10 hours for Premium, and 5 hours for Essential. Additional cloud playtime can be purchased through the Xbox Store.
Microsoft says this change is necessary due to increasing usage and longer play sessions, which have driven up costs. The company claims that the new structure will help invest in reliability and performance.
In a separate development, players will soon be able to purchase cloud gaming hours separately through the Xbox Store, allowing them to stream eligible games they own without a Game Pass subscription. However, Microsoft has not disclosed pricing details for these additional hours.