Cloud gaming on Xbox is moving to an hourly billing model. Microsoft has revealed the prices for the new "Cloud Playtime" packages, which can be purchased even without a Game Pass. For now, only Xbox Insiders are testing the system.
What Do the New Cloud Packages Cost?
Initially, the prepaid packages are only available in US dollars. Here's an overview of the introductory prices:
- 10 hours for $3.99 (approx. 40 cents per hour)
- 25 hours for $7.99 (approx. 32 cents per hour)
- 50 hours for $11.99 (approx. 24 cents per hour)
The larger the package, the cheaper the hourly rate. One advantage is that unused hours from the prepaid packages do not expire. In contrast, the free hours included in a subscription will expire at the end of each month.
What Changes for Game Pass Subscribers?
The flat rate is a thing of the past. Microsoft already announced in September that it would convert cloud gaming into a fixed hourly quota. Game Pass Ultimate will now include 15 hours per month. Those who stream more will have to purchase additional hours. According to Microsoft, 96 percent of existing users already stream less than 15 hours a month anyway. According to information from VGC, existing Ultimate subscriptions in some countries, including Germany, are initially not affected by these changes as long as the subscription automatically renews.
Players without a subscription can stream suitable games they own through these packages. Additionally, selected free-to-play titles are expected to have free, ad-supported access. According to Microsoft, even paying users should anticipate waiting times during peak hours, though these are expected to be shorter.
When Will This Offer Be Available to All Players?
Xbox Insiders are testing the packages now. The rollout for all Xbox players is planned for November. Whether and at what prices the offer will launch in Germany remains unclear, as Microsoft has only provided dollar figures so far.
Is It Worth It For You?
From our perspective: For casual players who only stream occasionally, the packages are fair because the hours don't expire. However, those who game daily in the cloud will quickly exceed 15 hours and end up paying more. One report explains why Microsoft is restructuring the system: it names the 15-hour limit as the point where Xbox starts incurring additional costs for server, computing, and bandwidth. This is based on a report and has not been confirmed by Microsoft. This also comes amidst corporate restructuring, with over 3,000 employee layoffs announced.
Do you stream games from the cloud, and would you pay per hour for it? Let us know in the comments!
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