Xbox Cloud Gaming Explores Ad-Supported Models: What It Means for Southeast Asia
The landscape of streaming services continues to evolve, and now it seems that ad-supported options are extending their reach to cloud gaming. Specifically, Xbox Cloud Gaming, previously known as Project xCloud, is considering ad-supported models for regions like Southeast Asia, Africa, and India. In an interview with Xbox Chief Financial Officer Tim Stuart at the recent Wells Fargo TMT Summit, the potential introduction of ad-supported models in these non-console-centric markets was discussed. This model proposes that gamers in these regions could watch 30 seconds of advertisements in exchange for two hours of game streaming.
Ad-Supported Xbox Cloud Gaming Plan for Southeast Asia?
According to TweakTown, during the Wells Fargo TMT Summit, Tim Stuart highlighted Southeast Asia as one of the regions where ad-supported models for Xbox Cloud Gaming could be implemented. Currently, Malaysia does not support any form of Xbox Cloud Gaming, with only PC Game Pass and wireless controllers being available. However, with Microsoft acknowledging the Southeast Asia region beyond Singapore, there is optimism for the introduction of more services in the near future.
While the prospect of ad-supported models in cloud gaming holds promise, there are challenges to consider. The gradual pace of introducing Xbox services locally, from controllers to potential cloud gaming, raises questions about the timeline for implementation. Reports suggesting Microsoft’s slowdown in work on Xbox Cloud Gaming add another layer of uncertainty to the situation. Additionally, the practicality of having gamers watch a 30-second ad during gameplay, especially in scenarios like uninterrupted multiplayer matches, poses potential challenges.
Pokdepinion: As Xbox Cloud Gaming explores the possibility of ad-supported models in Southeast Asia, gamers in the region are eager to see how this development unfolds. The potential for an exchange of 30 seconds of ads for two hours of game streaming introduces a unique dynamic to the cloud gaming landscape. However, the challenges and uncertainties surrounding the timeline and practicality of implementation remain factors to watch.