Gamers who rely on streaming may no longer have to subscribe to Game Pass Ultimate. A Better xCloud leak hints that Microsoft could unveil separate Xbox Cloud Gaming plans. Some third-party and Xbox exclusive games would only be accessible on specific paid tiers.
Currently, players need Game Pass Ultimate to access Xbox Cloud Gaming features. Microsoft may soon offer an alternative to subscribers who find the option too costly or prefer streaming. Redphx from Better xCloud discovered some curious code which reveals at least four potential new tiers. Some third-party and Xbox games may only be available on specific plans.
Better xCloud identified references to Callisto, Dia, Europa, and Ferdinand. Callisto may be the most expensive subscription, while Ferdinand caters to smaller budgets. Some popular titles, such as GTA 5, would only be a part of a select number of tiers. Meanwhile, all levels would include other titles, like Genshin Impact and Doom 64. Different tiers could also offer additional advantages, with higher-resolution visuals a possible perk.
Xbox Cloud Gaming is integral to Microsoft’s cross-platform push, bringing its services to multiple devices. Xbox Insider testers with desktops and laptops can stream more titles through the Xbox PC app. Also, as part of Play Anywhere, players are able to resume cloud-based gameplay on consoles and handheld gaming PCs.
Microsoft is gradually moving on from the Xbox Series X|S, marketing products like the ROG Xbox Ally handheld. Even a rumored 2027 console may be Windows-based, raising questions about backward compatibility. Phil Spencer has promised that the company won’t abandon older console-locked Xbox games. Nevertheless, cloud gaming remains a perhaps less than desirable fallback solution when emulation isn’t possible.
As some gamers have noted on social media, four Xbox Cloud Gaming tiers seem excessive. Microsoft could choose to integrate some of the new options into existing Game Pass subscriptions.
Related Articles
Adam Corsetti – Tech Writer – 474 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2025
I became interested in technology at a young age and enjoyed discovering the latest innovations. While earning college degrees in publishing, I created several PC hardware and gaming websites. My passion has always been to guide readers on what products can truly improve their lives. After many years as a Tech Writer for Game Rant, I’m anxious to share my knowledge with a new audience at Notebookcheck.
Adam Corsetti, 2025-07-23 (Update: 2025-07-23)
