Microsoft is rolling out paid Cloud Playtime purchases on Xbox, charging $0.24–$0.40 per hour to stream games you already own. The move follows September's restriction of streaming access for Game Pass subscribers, offering non-subscribers an a la carte alternative that critics compare to an outdated arcade-era metered payment model.
Background
Microsoft has been restructuring its Xbox Cloud Gaming service, with Game Pass tier changes limiting free streaming access for many users. This new paid-per-hour model targets non-subscribers who own compatible games but want to stream rather than play locally.
- Source
- Ars Technica
- Published
- Oct 22, 2026 at 06:06 AM
- Score
- 6.0 / 10