Xbox Insiders Can Test Paying for Cloud Playtime Without Game Pass

The pay-as-you-go business model for Xbox Cloud Gaming that Microsoft teased in September is now available for select Xbox Insiders. This follows another test of a free ad-supported cloud streaming offering with Insiders since July.

Starting today, Insiders without a Game Pass subscription can now pay for cloud playtime, with prices starting at $3.99 for 10 hours. “Cloud playtime packs provide an ad-free cloud gaming experience, including shorter wait times, high-quality streaming, and playtime that remains available until it’s used,” the Xbox team said today.

Here are the three cloud playtime offerings that Microsoft is currently making available for select Insiders:

• 10 hours for $3.99
• 25 hours for $7.99
• 50 hours for $11.99

As a reminder, Microsoft will also introduce monthly usage caps for Xbox Cloud Gaming for Game Pass subscribers in November. Game Pass Essential members will have just 5 hours of cloud gaming per month, while Game Pass Premium and Game Pass Ultimate members will get 10 hours and 15 hours per month, respectively. Game Pass members will also be able to purchase more gaming hours on the Microsoft Store.

Overall, Microsoft is expanding access to Xbox Cloud Gaming by making the service available without a Game Pass subscription. However, this introductory launch pricing will likely evolve. As for the free ad-supported tier that’s currently being tested with Insiders, play sessions are limited to just one hour.