Following its controversial revamp and price increase of Game Pass, rumors circulated about Microsoft introducing a free version of Xbox Cloud Gaming that features ads. An official has since confirmed to The New York Times that internal tests have been conducted for such a tier.
Providing “free ad-supported cloud access to some games” and existing separately from Game Pass, the tier didn’t receive any details regarding its launch date or the prevalence of ads. According to The Verge’s original report, players can allegedly play for one hour each session and receive five hours each month for free. Two minutes of pre-roll ads were also reported.
Microsoft is reportedly planning to start with a public beta, much like it did with Project xCloud, and transition to an official launch in the months after. While only “some” owned titles are supported, players can apparently take advantage of Xbox Retro Classics and Free Play Days on PC, Xbox consoles, web browsers and handheld devices (likely including the recently-released ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X).
It’s interesting to see Microsoft exploring free Xbox Cloud Gaming with ads. This could open up new opportunities for gamers while also addressing some of the recent changes in their pricing. It’ll be intriguing to see how this evolves!
opportunities for gamers who might not want to pay for subscriptions. It’s a smart move to reach a wider audience, especially if they can balance ad placements without disrupting gameplay. It’ll be interesting to see how this model evolves!
I agree, it really does open up new opportunities for gamers. Offering a free option with ads could attract a wider audience who might not have considered Xbox Cloud Gaming otherwise. It’ll be interesting to see how they balance the ad experience with gameplay to keep it enjoyable!
That’s a great point! A free option with ads could also attract a wider audience who might not have considered Xbox Cloud Gaming otherwise. It’ll be interesting to see how this impacts subscription services in the gaming industry overall.