Asha Sharma, the CEO of Xbox, recently informed employees during an all-hands meeting that Microsoft is poised to undertake a unique initiative regarding Grand Theft Auto VI, something that no other platform holder has attempted. Sources suggest this hints at Xbox securing game streaming rights for the upcoming title.
This arrangement will enable Xbox Cloud Gaming to stream Grand Theft Auto VI to users at the game’s launch, although the duration of this agreement remains undefined. Notably, Rockstar Games has yet to announce a PC version of the game, and the streaming deal typically enables Xbox to market Cloud Gaming to PC players who might otherwise require an Xbox Series X/S or PS5 console.
Initially reported by The Verge as an exclusive deal, Matthew Ball, Xbox’s chief strategy officer, clarified via social media that the streaming rights will not be exclusive to any platform, nor available for PC users. This implies that the agreement is limited to Xbox console streaming, potentially restricting accessibility through web browsers and apps typically connected to Xbox Cloud Gaming.
The news of these streaming rights comes a month after Microsoft announced significant changes to Xbox Cloud Gaming. Starting in November, coinciding with the release of Grand Theft Auto VI, Microsoft will impose streaming hour limits: 15 hours for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers, 10 hours for Premium subscribers, and just 5 hours for Game Pass Essential users.
In a further push to enhance accessibility, Microsoft is introducing a pay-as-you-go model for Xbox Cloud Gaming next month, allowing gamers to engage with Grand Theft Auto VI without a full Game Pass subscription. This move aims to attract those who do not own an Xbox console or prefer gaming on their mobile devices.
Addressing future developments, Sharma also discussed Project Helix, the next generation of Xbox hardware, describing it as a “family of devices.” Microsoft plans to collaborate with other manufacturers on some of these devices. This initiative follows the strategic multi-year partnership announced last year between Microsoft and AMD to develop a portfolio of devices, including the forthcoming Xbox console.
Correction, October 6th: Xbox has clarified that its streaming deal is not exclusive and that Grand Theft Auto VI will not be available on PC streaming.
Editor’s Take
This development highlights Microsoft’s strategic efforts to enhance its cloud gaming capabilities, particularly with a high-demand title like Grand Theft Auto VI. The pay-as-you-go option could significantly broaden Xbox’s audience, making cloud gaming more accessible to a wider range of players. As competition in the gaming industry intensifies, these moves may influence how developers approach game releases and marketing strategies in an increasingly digital landscape.
Source: www.theverge.com
