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Microsoft is currently testing a new feature for Xbox Game Pass that delivers significant value for players. Starting today, members of the Xbox Insider program can try out the Xbox Cloud Gaming beta on the Game Pass Core and Standard tiers. Until now, this service was exclusive to those subscribed to Game Pass Ultimate.
This development is notable because, in today’s gaming landscape, it’s uncommon to see a service that actually enhances its value proposition. While there have been reports of Game Pass increasing its subscription prices, offering cloud gaming options to more budget-conscious players is a positive step. This move could make gaming more accessible and affordable for a broader audience.
Recent hints from Microsoft suggest that more changes are in the pipeline. Jason Ronald, Vice President of Next Generation Experiences at Microsoft, mentioned in an Xbox podcast that such features are on the horizon. There are also rumors about the company potentially introducing an ad-supported tier for Game Pass, though nothing official has been announced yet.
Additionally, select titles from the PC Game Pass library will soon be accessible for players on the Core and Standard plans—though only on Windows PCs or handheld devices. Gaming on consoles with PC games isn’t available at this time, but it’s possible that future updates could enable Xbox players to enjoy these titles via keyboard and mouse controls.
According to Ronald, many players are already using Game Pass Ultimate primarily for cloud gaming, either as their main way to play or as an extra option for gaming on the go. He emphasizes that these updates could make the service more affordable and easier to access, especially in new regions or through different ways of connecting to the Xbox cloud.
[Image: Key art for Xbox Game Pass Core]
Source: Microsoft / Xbox