Microsoft: Sorry, But Time Limits Are Coming to Xbox's Cloud Gaming

If you like Xbox’s cloud gaming feature, prepare to pay more. Microsoft is introducing time limits on Xbox Game Pass plans.

The service currently touts “unlimited cloud gaming,” letting users stream Xbox games on other devices, including phones, PCs, and smart TVs. Starting in November, however, subscribers will face a cap that ranges from a rather measly 5 to 15 hours each month.

Game Pass Ultimate: 15 hours


Game Pass Premium: 10 hours


Game Pass Essential: 5 hours


Microsoft explains: “We’re introducing this model because the cost of providing cloud gaming grows as more people use it and play for longer. Moving to monthly limits allows us to keep offering the service while continuing to invest in its reliability and performance. We understand that for some players, the practical result is a higher cost.”



Despite the rising use of Xbox’s cloud gaming feature, the company also suggested most Game Pass subscribers won’t be affected. “We recognize that introducing limits is a meaningful change, particularly for players who regularly spend more time gaming through the cloud. We expect this upcoming change to impact 4% of Game Pass subscribers,” Microsoft wrote.

To exceed the monthly cap, customers will need to pay an extra fee through the Xbox Store. “Available hours, purchasing options, and cloud gaming features may vary by market. We’ll share pricing and further details before the changes take effect,” the announcement adds.

The decision isn't sitting well with Xbox gamers. "Jeez this is awful for anyone who uses cloud gaming. 15 hours is nothing," wrote one user on Reddit. The news is also surprising, considering Microsoft has boasted about Xbox's cloud gaming as a major feature in years prior.

In the meantime, Xbox owners without a Game Pass subscription will also be able to buy hours for cloud gaming, letting them stream “eligible games they own on supported devices.” The new option will also arrive in November.

“This will provide another option for people who want occasional access to cloud gaming or do not want a recurring Game Pass subscription,” the company said. Microsoft has also been testing an ad-supported version of cloud gaming.

This comes a few months after Microsoft dropped the price of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate from $29.99 to $22.99 a month and PC Game Pass from $16.49 to $13.99 a month. However, gamers will have to wait "about a year" for future Call of Duty titles on Game Pass.

https://www.pcmag.com/news/microsoft-sorry-but-time-limits-are-coming-to-xboxs-cloud-gaming