Microsoft details pay as you go pricing for Xbox Cloud Gaming

Microsoft has announced introductory pricing for a new Xbox Cloud Gaming option that lets players stream video games without an active Xbox Game Pass subscription. Dexerto, VideoCardz, and The Verge all report that users can purchase cloud gaming hours under a pay as you go model. Pricing starts at 3.99 US dollars for 10 hours, according to VideoCardz and The Verge. [1][5][8]

The new feature is available to Xbox Insiders for testing starting October 21 ahead of a full rollout planned for November, Dexerto reported. Engadget confirmed that Xbox is previewing paid cloud streaming for non-subscribers. Windows Central noted that the hourly pass also allows existing subscribers to purchase additional streaming time beyond upcoming usage caps. [1][2][7]

The changes follow incoming playtime limits on the service. According to Windows Central, Xbox Cloud Gaming will end unlimited streaming in November, capping Game Pass Ultimate users at 15 hours, Premium subscribers at 10 hours, and basic tier users at 5 hours. [2]

Xbox Cloud Gaming allows users to stream titles to supported devices, including consoles, mobile phones, and web browsers, via remote Microsoft Azure cloud servers. The service first launched for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers in September 2020. [11][12][14]