Microsoft is testing a free version of Xbox Cloud Gaming that will include advertisements, according to a report from The Verge. Users will watch two minutes of ads before streaming and receive five hours of monthly access in one-hour sessions. The service will allow streaming of free-to-play titles, owned games, and Xbox Retro Classic selections across PCs, consoles, and handheld devices.
A public beta test is expected soon, and a full release will follow in the coming months. The announcement comes after Microsoft raised Xbox Game Pass prices by 50 percent earlier this year. Critics question whether the limited five-hour monthly allowance will satisfy gamers who want to stream content. The restrictions may push users toward purchasing an Essential Game Pass subscription instead of using the ad-supported free option.
A public beta test is expected soon, and a full release will follow in the coming months. The announcement comes after Microsoft raised Xbox Game Pass prices by 50 percent earlier this year. Critics question whether the limited five-hour monthly allowance will satisfy gamers who want to stream content. The restrictions may push users toward purchasing an Essential Game Pass subscription instead of using the ad-supported free option.
