Xbox has officially announced that it is developing a free version of its Xbox Cloud Gaming service, which could operate independently of the Xbox Game Pass subscription. This exciting update comes at a time when gamers are reacting to the recent price increase for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, providing an appealing option for those hesitant to commit financially.
The forthcoming free version will be ad-supported, allowing users to access a select number of games, including some they may already own, all playable across various devices without the need for a console or PC. Currently, Xbox Cloud Gaming is bundled within the three tiers of Xbox Game Pass—Ultimate, Premium, and Essential—where access and features vary depending on the subscription plan. However, this new approach aligns with Microsoft’s goal of broadening gaming accessibility, potentially introducing cloud gaming on platforms like the Fire TV Stick 4K.
Although specific details regarding the availability of games or the frequency and type of advertisements remain unclear, the introduction of a no-cost service is likely to attract casual gamers. Reports suggest that Microsoft is in the testing phases of this service, as confirmed by a company official. Internal trials reportedly allow employees to access selected titles without a subscription, which hints at the games that could eventually be offered to the public.
In addition to titles already owned by players, the service may include Free Play Days and Xbox Retro Classics. There is speculation that usage might be limited, potentially allowing up to an hour per session and a total of five hours each month, paralleling the access model of Nvidia’s ad-supported GeForce Now tier, which also imposes time restrictions and waiting queues.
As anticipation builds, a public beta test for the free Xbox Cloud Gaming service is expected to launch soon, with a full rollout anticipated in the upcoming months. This move by Microsoft represents a significant step towards increasing accessibility to gaming, creating new opportunities for gamers of all backgrounds to engage with Xbox’s expanding library in a cost-effective manner.