Xbox Cloud gaming has been a major draw for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers since its launch. However, Microsoft recently announced a significant price increase for the service, now costing $29.99 per month, up from $19.99. This price hike has caused backlash from gamers, leading many to cancel their subscriptions in protest.
In response, Microsoft has introduced a free ad-supported version of Xbox Cloud gaming. While this may seem like a gesture to appease upset users, it appears that Microsoft had been planning this option prior to the price increase. The free version comes with its own set of caveats, including the need to watch ads in exchange for access to certain games.
The ad-supported model will offer a limited selection of games, including some owned titles, Xbox Retro Classics, and Free Play Days games. This means that users may not have access to the full library available to paid subscribers. Additionally, there may be session limits, with one-hour sessions and a maximum of five free hours per month.
Microsoft aims to make this free version accessible on handheld devices, consoles, the web, and PC. However, there is no mention of mobile device access at this time. Users may need to restart sessions after one hour, similar to how limits work on other streaming platforms like GeForce NOW.
Overall, the introduction of a free ad-supported option for Xbox Cloud gaming may provide an alternative for users who are unwilling to pay the increased subscription fee. However, it comes with its own set of limitations and restrictions that users should be aware of before making the switch.