Microsoft's Xbox unit announced that it will introduce monthly limits on cloud gaming for Game Pass subscribers, marking a significant shift from the previously unlimited access model.
The new structure will allow users to access 15 hours of cloud gaming with a Game Pass Ultimate subscription at $22.99 per month, 10 hours with a Premium subscription at $14.99, and 5 hours with an Essential subscription at $9.99. This decision comes as the company faces increasing costs related to cloud gaming services, which are driven by higher demand for computing power.
Xbox stated that the new limits are necessary to maintain service reliability and performance while managing costs. Additionally, users who exceed their allotted hours will have the option to purchase extra gaming time, and non-subscribers will also be able to buy cloud gaming time for games they own.
This change is part of a broader evaluation by new CEO Asha Sharma to enhance profitability and growth within the Xbox division, which has previously explored other revenue models, such as ad-supported game streaming. Notably, only 4% of Game Pass subscribers currently utilize cloud gaming extensively, indicating that the majority of users may not be significantly impacted by these new limits