Microsoft has announced monthly cloud gaming limits for all Xbox Game Pass subscribers starting in November. This step is important for users of the service because it changes the common conditions for using cloud streaming and may require active players to pay additional fees.
The new rules set clear limits for each tariff plan. Game Pass Ultimate users will get 15 hours of cloud streaming per month, Premium members will get 10 hours, and the Essential plan only offers 5 hours. The company explains this innovation by citing the increasing costs of maintaining and developing cloud technology infrastructure, which is why unlimited access has become too expensive. The restrictions will affect about four percent of the service’s audience, according to company representatives.
Once the limit is reached, players will be able to purchase additional watch packs from the internal store. Pricing and regional features will appear when the update is released. Owners of older Xbox One consoles can also run next-generation games through the cloud, saving the cost of purchasing current hardware.