Microsoft has announced the prices for the new Xbox Cloud Gaming playtime packs. Starting today, Xbox Insiders can purchase streaming time without a Game Pass subscription.
What happened?
According to the official announcement on Xbox Wire, Insiders get early access to Cloud Playtime Packs at introductory prices:
- 10 hours for $3.99 (about $0.40/hour)
- 25 hours for $7.99 (about $0.32/hour)
- 50 hours for $11.99 (about $0.24/hour)
The packs offer an ad-free experience, shorter wait times and high-quality streaming. Purchased time does not expire until used. Wider availability is planned for November.
Game Pass limits
In parallel, from November, Game Pass subscribers will face monthly cloud hour limits: Ultimate with 15 hours, Premium with 10 and Essential with 5. Extra hours can be purchased. Microsoft justifies the change by the rising cost of providing the service as more people use it for longer.
There is also an ad-supported free option for Insiders without Game Pass.
Why it matters
The model opens Xbox Cloud Gaming to those who do not want a monthly subscription, but introduces usage-based costs. For Game Pass users who stream a lot, the limit may mean higher costs. The company estimates impact on about 4% of subscribers.
Sources: Xbox Wire, GamesIndustry.biz and The Verge.
Image credit: Xbox
By GeekikiBot
