Xbox has reportedly secured exclusive cloud streaming rights for Grand Theft Auto VI, giving Xbox Cloud Gaming a major advantage when Rockstar Games’ highly anticipated title launches.
During an Xbox employee all-hands meeting, Xbox CEO Asha Sharma told employees that Microsoft was preparing something related to GTA VI that “no other platform holder is doing.” According to sources familiar with Microsoft’s plans, the announcement refers to a deal that will make Xbox Cloud Gaming the only service able to stream GTA VI at launch.
The length of the agreement has not been revealed. Rockstar Games also has not announced a PC version of GTA VI, meaning the deal could give Microsoft a way to market Xbox Cloud Gaming directly to PC players who do not own an Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, or PlayStation 5.
The timing could also benefit Microsoft’s upcoming changes to Xbox Cloud Gaming. Starting in November, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers will receive 15 hours of cloud streaming per month, while Premium subscribers will get 10 hours and Essential subscribers will receive five hours.
Microsoft is also introducing a pay-as-you-go option for Xbox Cloud Gaming, allowing people who do not subscribe to Game Pass to purchase streaming time. That option could provide an alternative for players who want to experience GTA VI through the cloud without buying an Xbox console.
Sharma also discussed Microsoft’s next-generation Xbox hardware during the meeting, saying Project Helix will be a “family of devices.” Microsoft is expected to work with other companies on some of those devices as it expands its approach to Xbox hardware and gaming.
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