Microsoft is imposing strict limits on Xbox Cloud Gaming, reducing the hours available to Ultimate subscribers from unlimited to 15 per month. This change is set to impact 4% of Game Pass subscribers and will require them to pay for additional cloud playtime through the Xbox store.

These limits could force some Xbox One owners to upgrade their consoles or rethink their gaming habits, while Essential tier users may find the new restrictions particularly restrictive.

Despite the cost of providing cloud gaming growing with usage, Microsoft previously opened up access to all tiers of Game Pass, including unlimited cloud gaming, nearly a year ago.

As part of these changes, Xbox Cloud Gaming is now available to those without a Game Pass subscription, allowing them to purchase cloud playtime hours through the Xbox Store.

While these limits may not sit well with Xbox Game Pass subscribers, it remains to be seen if this move will prevent further price increases for the service.