Cloud Gaming for Everyone: Xbox Opens Its Streaming Service to Game Pass Core and Standard

On 29 August 2025, Microsoft announced that Xbox Cloud Gaming will be integrated into the entry-level Game Pass Core and the standard Game Pass Standard subscriptions, a feature previously exclusive to Game Pass Ultimate. The rollout will begin with testing through the Xbox Insider Program, granting participating Core and Standard subscribers the ability to stream supported titles included in their subscription.

In addition, some personally owned games will also be playable via the cloud, meaning players will be able to stream games on smartphones, tablets, or other supported devices anytime, anywhere with only an internet connection. According to the Xbox Insider team, this testing phase will allow Core and Standard subscribers to enjoy both cloud-enabled titles within Game Pass and select previously purchased games, reflecting Microsoft’s broader vision of extending its services through the cloud.

However, the full Xbox Cloud Gaming experience will remain exclusive to Game Pass Ultimate, with potential differences across subscription tiers in areas such as streaming resolution and visual quality. Since this rollout is still in testing, the final implementation may differ when officially launched, and a free ad‑supported version of cloud gaming has been hinted at but remains unconfirmed.