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Is Xbox Game Pass Core Getting Cloud Streaming and PC Games?
Microsoft is changing how you can play games on the go. If you have an Xbox Game Pass Core or Standard subscription, you can now test a feature that was once only for the most expensive plan: Xbox Cloud Gaming. This is happening through a test program for Xbox Insiders, which means it’s still in a beta phase but points toward a more flexible future for gaming.
Previously, streaming Xbox games to your phone, tablet, or computer required a Game Pass Ultimate subscription. That is the top-tier plan. Now, Microsoft is inviting subscribers of the more affordable Core and Standard plans to try streaming. This allows you to play certain games from the cloud on any device that supports it, without needing a powerful console or PC for every session.
More Ways to Play with Your Current Plan
This new test adds two significant features for Game Pass Core and Standard members who choose to participate as Insiders.
Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta)
You can stream a selection of games that are playable on the cloud and included in your subscription. You can also stream some games you already own. This lets you play on a smartphone, tablet, computer, or even a smart TV without a long download or installation.
Access to PC Games
In a separate but related update, Microsoft is also giving these subscribers access to download and play the PC versions of select titles. This is different from streaming. You use the Xbox PC app to download the game directly to your computer or Windows handheld device. This isn’t the full PC Game Pass library, but a curated selection of titles to give you more ways to play.
To try these new features, you must first be part of the Xbox Insider program. Once you are, you can enable the preview features by visiting xbox.com/play or by going into the settings on the Xbox app on your TV.
A Clear Guide to Xbox Game Pass Tiers
With multiple subscription plans available, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. The addition of these new beta features changes the value of each plan. Here is a simple breakdown of the main Xbox Game Pass subscriptions :
| Feature | Game Pass Core | Game Pass Standard | PC Game Pass | Game Pass Ultimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price (Monthly) | $10 | $15 | $12 | $20 |
| Main Platform | Xbox Consoles | Xbox Consoles | PC | Xbox & PC |
| Online Multiplayer | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Game Library | A catalog of over 25 games | The full console game library | The full PC game library | Full console & PC libraries |
| Day One Releases | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| EA Play Membership | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Xbox Cloud Gaming | Yes (in beta for Insiders) | Yes (in beta for Insiders) | No | Yes |
| Select PC Downloads | Yes (in beta for Insiders) | Yes (in beta for Insiders) | N/A | N/A |
Why Are These Changes Happening Now?
These updates are likely connected to the growing market for handheld gaming PCs. Microsoft and ASUS are set to launch the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X on October 16, 2025. These devices are powerful handhelds designed to play PC games from various services, including Xbox and Steam.
By adding cloud streaming and PC game downloads to the more affordable Game Pass Core and Standard tiers, Microsoft makes its subscription service more appealing to people who buy these new handhelds. It gives gamers a lower-cost way to access a library of games on their new device without needing the all-inclusive, and more expensive, Game Pass Ultimate plan. This move helps Xbox compete in the portable gaming space and gives players more freedom to enjoy their games anywhere.