Xbox secures exclusive GTA 6 streaming rights ahead of launch: All details

Microsoft’s Xbox has reportedly landed exclusive cloud streaming rights for Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6), a move that could give PC gamers access to the highly anticipated title at launch even though Rockstar Games has yet to announce a PC version. According to a report by The Verge, Xbox Cloud Gaming will be the only cloud service allowed to stream GTA 6 when the game launches. The duration of the reported exclusivity agreement remains unclear. The report said Xbox CEO Asha Sharma told employees during an all-hands meeting that Microsoft was preparing to do something around GTA 6 that “no other platform holder is doing.” Sources familiar with the company’s plans told The Verge that the comment referred to Xbox securing exclusive streaming rights for the game.A cloud route to PCThe biggest effect may be on PC players. Rockstar has not announced a PC version of GTA 6, and The Verge said the deal lets Xbox pitch its cloud service to PC players who would otherwise need an Xbox Series X/S or a PS5. That means the game could be playable on PC in November through cloud streaming, though it would not be a native PC release.For anyone weighing a console purchase just for GTA 6, the deal could provide another way in. For Microsoft, it is a chance to promote Xbox Cloud Gaming on a title that is expected to dominate the holiday season.A counter to PlayStation's marketing pushGTA 6 is set to launch on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. PlayStation holds the marketing deal for the game. Many ads say it "plays best on PS5." The reported streaming exclusivity gives Xbox its own GTA 6 selling point after that PlayStation-led campaign.Timing: Streaming limits arrive in NovemberThe report lands as Xbox Cloud Gaming is about to change. The Verge reports that starting in November, monthly cloud gaming access will be capped at 15 hours for Game Pass Ultimate subscribers, 10 hours for Premium subscribers and five hours for Essential subscribers. Those limits could matter for a game as large as GTA 6, where long sessions are common.To offset the caps, players will be able to buy bundles of streaming hours without needing a Game Pass subscription. Microsoft has not announced prices. One unconfirmed rumour puts the cost at $5.99 for 25 streaming hours.You use AI every day. Now get your AI Quotient. Take the AIQ test.