Xbox Cloud Gaming will change its access system starting in November and will begin to apply monthly limits on hours based on the Game Pass plan.
Once the included time is consumed, subscribers will be able to purchase additional hours. Microsoft will also allow playing cloud titles without subscribing to Game Pass.
How many hours of Xbox Cloud Gaming each plan will have
Starting in November, Xbox Game Pass plans will include a specific number of cloud gaming hours per month.
Game Pass Ultimate: 15 monthly hours.
Game Pass Premium: 10 monthly hours.
Game Pass Essential: 5 monthly hours.
Currently, Game Pass subscribers can use Xbox Cloud Gaming without these monthly limits.
When the included hours run out, it will be possible to purchase additional time through the Xbox Store. Microsoft indicated that the change will affect 4% of Game Pass subscribers.
Microsoft explained in a blog post that the cost of providing Xbox Cloud Gaming has increased as the usage of the service and playtime has grown.
According to the company, the limits will allow for investment in reliability and performance. It also acknowledged that, for some players, the practical outcome will be a higher cost.
Microsoft will provide more information in November about pricing, purchasing hours, eligible games, market availability, and how to check remaining time.
