Key Takeaways
- Microsoft has launched a new pay-per-hour streaming service for Game Pass subscribers.
- Pricing starts at $4 for 10 hours, equivalent to $0.40 per hour.
- Players can purchase additional hours to stream games they already own.
Microsoft has introduced a new feature that allows Game Pass subscribers to stream games they already own by purchasing 'Cloud Playtime' hours. The service, which was rolled out to Xbox Insiders, offers a pay-per-hour model for accessing games through the cloud.
The introductory pricing for Cloud Playtime is set at $4 for 10 hours of streaming, equating to approximately $0.40 per hour. For those seeking more extended playtime, the company offers packages of 25 hours for $8 and 50 hours for $12, translating to $0.32 and $0.24 per hour respectively.
According to Microsoft, the purchased playtime remains available until it is fully utilized, ensuring that players can use their hours over an extended period without expiration.
This move by Microsoft comes after the company had previously restricted the availability of free game streaming for non-subscribers, a decision that sparked controversy among gamers.
The new service is designed to provide flexibility for Game Pass subscribers who may want to stream games on devices that are not part of the Game Pass ecosystem, such as smartphones or tablets.
While the pricing might be seen as a drawback for some, it offers a solution for those who wish to continue enjoying their purchased games through the cloud without the need for a subscription.
Microsoft has emphasized that the purchased playtime is non-expiring, which could be a significant selling point for users who are hesitant about committing to a subscription model.
The new feature is currently available to Xbox Insiders, who will be the first to test the service and provide feedback to Microsoft.
