Home News Microsoft Tests Free Ad-Supported Xbox Cloud Gaming Tier

Microsoft Tests Free Ad-Supported Xbox Cloud Gaming Tier

Microsoft is reportedly testing a free, ad-supported tier for Xbox Cloud Gaming that would allow players to stream certain games without needing a Game Pass subscription.

What This Free Tier Includes

Under the current test, players would get access to games they already own, select “Free Play Days” titles available over weekends, and Xbox Retro Classics.

Streaming sessions are limited to one hour per session, with a cap of five hours per month for free users. Before gameplay starts, users are expected to watch roughly two minutes of ads.

Supported Devices & Rollout Plans

The feature is being tested internally now and would reach users across PC, Xbox consoles, handheld devices, and web browsers. Microsoft plans to launch a public beta before fully releasing the tier.

Why Microsoft Is Doing This

This move comes amid rising Xbox Game Pass prices, including a sharp increase in Game Pass Ultimate cost. Microsoft appears to be exploring ways to make cloud gaming more accessible and affordable, especially for players unwilling or unable to pay full subscription prices.

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Consoles free Xbox Cloud Gaming with ads Game Pass subscription alternatives Microsoft cloud gaming test Xbox Xbox Cloud Gaming free tier Xbox cloud gaming limits Xbox Retro Classics streaming Xbox Series

Sai T.

Sai is a social media manager and senior web content creator who spends his days juggling game research, deadlines, and the usual existential crisis. When he isn’t crafting content that hopefully goes viral, he’s a dedicated single parent doing his best to navigate work life balance. And in the rare moments when free time actually appears, he’s usually found with his two dogs, who are fully convinced they’re the ones in charge.