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There have been rumours for a while now that Xbox might be planning to introduce a form of ad-supported tier for Xbox Cloud Gaming, and they've now announced that they're introducing the idea as a "test" with Xbox Insiders.
Basically, the way it works is that you'll get a one-hour slot to stream "select games from your library" through the cloud without requiring any form of Xbox Game Pass membership. Ads will play "before sessions begin" and then you'll seemingly be left alone for the duration of your slot. It appears you can stream free-to-play games as well.
Xbox says this can be useful for a whole bunch of reasons:
"For many players, the device they already own now allows them to stream games with XBOX. Cloud can also help XBOX One owners play newer games built for XBOX Series X|S without needing to purchase new hardware right away. That can be especially meaningful in places where consoles are harder to find or less affordable, giving more players another way to access great games on devices they already have."
Interestingly, they've also tried to alleviate concerns about introducing "ad-supported services" in this way, suggesting that they have to be "built with the player in mind" and that they can help lower the cost of access "when done well".
As a result, they'll be adhering to these five principles when it comes to ad-based services:
- We start with the player. Ads should create value.
- We do not interrupt the flow of gameplay.
- We hold ads to the same quality bar as our content.
- We’re clear about what’s advertising.
- We make sure ads fit what players expect on each platform.
Again, this is just a "test" right now, and the team say they'll learn and continue to improve it based on player feedback. We assume it won't go fully public for a little while yet as a result, but we'll be sure to let you know when it does.
What do you think about the idea? Interested, or does it put you off? Let us know down in the comments below.