Microsoft is implementing a new billing system for Xbox Cloud Gaming, allowing users to purchase gaming hours separately, without the need for an active Game Pass subscription. This test is being conducted through the Xbox Insider program.
With this new model called Cloud Playtime, players have the option to acquire packages of up to 50 hours of gameplay, with initial prices starting from US$ 3.99 (approximately R$ 20). The purchased time guarantees access to the streaming servers, but it does not include the games; the user must have a compatible title or opt for a free selection available on the service.
Currently, the packages are only available in dollars, and Microsoft has not yet disclosed specific prices for the Brazilian market. The tests began this Wednesday, October 21st, for Xbox Insider members, with the expectation of availability to the entire community in November.
According to an official Xbox statement, Cloud Playtime is being evaluated in three distinct modes. In the paid packages, users are not exposed to ads during gameplay sessions and enjoy reduced waiting time to access the servers, as informed by Microsoft. The acquired time credit is linked to the account and can be used across multiple sessions until all hours are consumed.
This hour sale emerges as an alternative to the traditional subscription model, which, it should be noted, already imposes limits on cloud gaming time in each of its plans.
In addition to paid packages, the company is also testing a free version that includes advertising. In this mode, the user can access certain games via the cloud without paying monthly fees or purchasing additional time packages.
It is important to note that this new free option is not equivalent to a Game Pass subscription, as it grants access only to streaming and not to the full game library. To play, it is essential to possess a digital copy of a game compatible with the cloud service or select one of the free titles offered by the platform.
This format is advantageous for those who do not consider subscribing to Game Pass—whose cost in Brazil ranges between R$ 43.90 and R$ 76.90—especially if the goal is just to run their own purchased games. With Cloud Gaming, the player can enjoy these titles on different devices.
Cloud Gaming allows running Xbox games in the cloud on various devices, such as consoles, PCs, mobile phones, or televisions. However, like any online service, the quality of the gaming experience depends directly on the stability of the internet connection.
