Microsoft has revealed the pricing structure for its Xbox cloud gaming service, offering players access to streamed games through purchasable playtime packs. An introductory offer provides 50 hours of ad-free gameplay for $11.99.
Beginning today, Xbox Insiders can test the paid cloud gaming service without an Xbox Game Pass subscription. A wider rollout for all Xbox players is planned for November. These paid packs will offer an ad-free experience, a step up from the previously announced free cloud gaming service that includes advertisements.
Introductory pricing for the playtime packs includes: 10 hours for $3.99 25 hours for $7.99 50 hours for $11.99
Even subscribers to the paid cloud gaming service may face wait times during peak usage periods, although Microsoft indicated these queues will be shorter than those experienced on the free tier. Previously, it was reported that monthly time limits would be implemented on the paid service, with a 15-hour cap noted on the Game Pass Ultimate cloud gaming service, reportedly at the point where Xbox begins to incur financial losses on the service due to infrastructure and bandwidth costs.
In comparison, Sony's former cloud gaming service, PlayStation Now, charged $9.99 per month for streamed games over a decade ago. This pricing news arrives as Xbox is undergoing a significant restructuring, which includes substantial layoffs across the company, with further staff reductions anticipated in the coming months.