Microsoft appears to be developing a free, ad-supported version of its Xbox Cloud Gaming service. Recent reports suggest that internal testing of this new ad tier is currently underway by company employees, preceding a potential public launch.
This upcoming free tier is expected to grant users access to stream a selection of games they already own. Additionally, it may include certain titles featured in the `Free Play Days` promotion, offering no-cost weekend play, and possibly some Xbox Retro Classics.
Details from the ongoing tests indicate that users would typically watch two minutes of advertisements before a game begins. Potential streaming limitations are also being considered, such as one-hour session caps and a monthly limit of five hours of free gameplay. These terms are subject to change before the service`s official release, if it proceeds.
The ad-supported Xbox Cloud Gaming experience is reportedly being developed for a wide range of platforms, including personal computers, Xbox consoles, handheld devices, and internet browsers. The concept of offering free game access in exchange for ads had been previously speculated by industry observers.
An ad-supported tier isn`t entirely unexpected, as Xbox head Tim Stuart hinted at such possibilities in the past. More recently, in August, Xbox executive Jason Ronald discussed evolving Xbox Cloud Gaming to be “more affordable” and “accessible,” aligning with the idea of a free, ad-funded option.
In related news, Xbox Cloud Gaming recently concluded its beta phase, introducing various enhancements. However, Microsoft also announced that premium 1440p streaming quality would now require a Game Pass Ultimate subscription, which recently saw its price increase to $30 per month.
Historically, Square Enix attempted a similar venture in 2012 with Coreonline, an ad-based game streaming service. This service was discontinued after just 15 months due to insufficient player engagement.