It offers one-hour streaming sessions supported by advertisements shown before gameplay begins. The company said the test is aimed at giving players another way to access cloud gaming on devices they already own.
“For many players, the device they already own now allows them to stream games with XBOX,” Microsoft said in a blog post.
How the ad-supported game streaming works
Under the trial, eligible Xbox Insiders can stream supported games across supported devices and regions at no additional cost. Before each session begins, users will be shown advertisements. However, Microsoft said the ads will not interrupt gameplay, with the core gaming experience remaining unchanged once a session starts.
Each streaming session is currently limited to one hour. Microsoft has not disclosed whether there will be limits on the number of sessions users can start each day or month during the testing phase. The company also said the feature is entirely optional, with players free to continue accessing their games through other ways.
Why Microsoft is introducing the feature
According to Microsoft, the test is aimed at giving more players an affordable way to access cloud gaming without paying for an additional subscription.
The company said cloud streaming could be particularly beneficial for Xbox One owners, allowing them to play newer games designed for the Xbox Series
It also hopes the feature will improve access to gaming in regions where consoles are expensive or difficult to purchase.
Microsoft’s approach to advertising
Explaining the reason behind the initiative, Microsoft said advertising has been part of the gaming industry for years through in-game placements and free-to-play titles.
The company said its goal is to ensure advertisements reduce the cost of access without disrupting the gaming experience.
“It creates another way for players to get into games without an upfront streaming purchase and expands audiences through new ways to play,” the company said.
It outlined several principles for the test, including keeping gameplay uninterrupted, clearly identifying advertisements, maintaining the quality of ads, and ensuring they are appropriate for each platform.
Xbox business undergoes major restructuring
The announcement comes as Microsoft continues to reshape its Xbox business. Earlier this month, the company announced a major restructuring that included laying off around 3,200 employees and spinning off four game development studios.
Microsoft recently also introduced Xbox Backward Compatibility on PC, bringing select original Xbox titles to Windows PCs and compatible handheld gaming devices for the first time. The initial lineup includes Blinx: The Time Sweeper, Conker: Live & Reloaded, Crimson Skies: High Road to Revenge and Fuzion Frenzy.
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