Microsoft has announced a significant update for its Xbox Game Pass service, confirming that Xbox Cloud Gaming is now being made available to subscribers of the more affordable Xbox Game Pass Standard and Core tiers. This feature was previously exclusive to the premium Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription.
Currently, this change is live for members of the Xbox Insiders program, which is free and open to everyone. However, Microsoft has not yet disclosed a specific date for when Xbox Cloud Gaming will be rolled out to all Game Pass Standard and Core subscribers.
To provide context on the different subscription costs: Game Pass Ultimate is priced at $20 per month, Game Pass Standard at $15 per month, and the entry-level Game Pass Core at $10 per month. There is also a dedicated Game Pass PC version available for $12 per month.
Furthermore, Xbox Insiders with a Game Pass Standard or Core subscription can now also play PC versions of selected games. This functionality is accessed by downloading and opening the Xbox PC app, signing in, and navigating to the Game Pass tab to browse the available titles.
This development aligns with earlier indications from a Microsoft executive about introducing a more budget-friendly approach to accessing Xbox Cloud Gaming. This may not be the final evolution of cloud gaming, as there have been discussions about potentially offering free, ad-supported game streaming in the future.
Microsoft`s decision to expand cloud gaming access comes amidst a period of declining Xbox console sales. Xbox Cloud Gaming eliminates the need for a dedicated console, enabling users to play Xbox games on a variety of devices they might already own, such as phones, tablets, and computers. This initiative, launched in 2024 and branded as “This Is An Xbox,” highlights the widespread accessibility of Xbox gaming through the cloud.
Despite this strong emphasis on cloud-based gaming, Microsoft is not entirely shifting away from traditional hardware. The company is currently collaborating with AMD on a next-generation console. Additionally, new portable gaming devices, like the ROG Xbox Ally handhelds, are scheduled for release this October, demonstrating a balanced strategy for its gaming ecosystem.