XBOX wants you to play for free in the cloud and this is the condition

Xbox tests a new way to play for free in the cloud.

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Xbox has announced a new trial that could change the way some players access their cloud games. The company has started testing a free ad-supported streaming system, an initiative aimed at offering a lower-cost alternative to enjoy certain titles without the need for a cloud gaming subscription.

For now, this feature is limited to a group of Xbox Insiders, but it represents a new step in Microsoft’s strategy to make its games accessible from as many devices as possible. The company emphasizes that this is an initial test and that the conclusions drawn will serve to decide the future of this modality.

Xbox will allow free cloud gaming with ads during one-hour sessions

During this testing phase, selected users will be able to stream some of the games they already own by logging in with an Xbox account. In exchange, they will have to watch ads before starting each game session.

• Ads are played before starting the session.
• Game sessions have a one-hour limit.
• The gaming experience does not include ad interruptions.
• Participation is completely optional, and players can continue to use other methods to access their games.

How it works

Microsoft explains that this initiative can be especially useful for those who play on less powerful devices or still use an Xbox One, as cloud gaming allows access to titles designed for Xbox Series without the need to purchase a new-generation console. They also consider it an interesting alternative in regions where hardware is harder to come by or more expensive.

At Xbox, they ensure that advertising will only make sense if it adds value to the player and does not harm the experience. Therefore, the company states that ads will not interrupt gameplay, will be clearly identified, and must meet the same quality standards as the rest of the platform’s content.

For now, there is no information about a possible expansion of this modality to the rest of the users, although Microsoft has confirmed that it will collect feedback from participants before deciding on the next steps. If the results are positive, this model could become a new way to access cloud gaming on Xbox in the future.