Microsoft Sets Xbox Cloud Gaming Extra Playtime Fees
Microsoft reveals extra cloud gaming fees starting around 40 cents per hour for Xbox Game Pass subscribers.
Microsoft has announced additional playtime charges for Xbox Cloud Gaming users who exceed their monthly limits. According to details shared with the public and reported by 9to5Google, these extra costs begin at roughly 40 cents per hour for the lowest purchase amount.
Earlier this year in September, the company established that its Game Pass cloud streaming service would introduce monthly hour caps. Under these rules, the entry-level tier restricts users to a total of five hours each month before extra fees apply.
Testing and Pricing Tiers
The tech giant is currently evaluating the new billing system with participants in its Insider program. A wider public release is scheduled to follow next month, with temporary promotional pricing now confirmed for users who wish to purchase more time.
The cost per hour decreases for larger block purchases. Buying a 50-hour package brings the rate down to approximately 24 cents per hour. These paid options cover ad-free streaming sessions.
Options for Players
For subscribers who want to avoid paying for extra hours, Microsoft also provides an ad-supported streaming alternative. This free method involves longer queue wait times and lower video quality compared to the paid options.
Gamers using the service will need to decide whether to upgrade their package, limit their monthly cloud usage, or accept advertisements and slower performance once their initial limit runs out.
