Xbox has reportedly secured exclusive rights to stream Grand Theft Auto VI via the cloud at its launch, a move that could enable PC players to access the highly anticipated title without needing a console. The Verge reports that Xbox CEO Asha Sharma informed employees of a planned initiative for GTA 6 that "no other platform holder is doing."
If this agreement holds true, it would allow PC users to play GTA 6 through Xbox's cloud streaming service. While this approach would not offer the performance benefits, modding capabilities, or other features native to a PC version, it presents a viable option for those anticipating the game's release and potentially awaiting a dedicated PC port. The deal is expected to commence with the game's release in November, though the duration of its exclusivity remains unclear.
This development comes as Microsoft prepares to introduce pay-as-you-go plans for its cloud streaming service in November, a change that follows recent adjustments to streaming hour limits for Game Pass subscribers. These new plans could offer timed access to GTA 6 for users without a console.
PlayStation has also been heavily involved in marketing for GTA 6, having secured marketing rights that led to the release of limited-edition DualSense controllers. Rockstar Games has emphasized the game's performance on PlayStation 5, noting that it will "play best" on the console and showcasing footage captured on PS5 hardware. The reported cloud streaming deal for Xbox appears to be a strategic countermove to compete with PlayStation's prominent marketing presence for the title.
Concerns about GTA 6 pre-order numbers on Xbox were reportedly addressed by Xbox CSO Matthew Ball, who stated that the game was breaking records on the platform and that its pre-order share aligned with the platform's share of the console market, despite claims of PS5 dominance. This new streaming arrangement could prove significant for Xbox, particularly given the current difficulty and cost associated with acquiring a console, provided the service is effectively promoted to a broader gaming audience.