Xbox Secures GTA 6 Streaming Rights

The streaming rights come in November, when Microsoft is opening up access to Xbox Cloud Gaming, allowing players to stream Grand Theft Auto VI at launch without buying a console.

Xbox Secures GTA 6 Streaming Rights
Photo: The Verge

Xbox CEO Asha Sharma told employees that Microsoft is getting ready to do something around Grand Theft Auto VI that no other platform holder is doing.

According to Sharma, Xbox has managed to land a deal for game streaming rights for Grand Theft Auto VI, which will allow Xbox Cloud Gaming to stream the game to players at launch.

However, Xbox chief strategy officer Matthew Ball later clarified that the game will not be streaming exclusively or to PC.

The deal will mean Xbox Cloud Gaming can stream Grand Theft Auto VI to players at launch, but it's not clear how long the agreement will be in place.

Microsoft is also opening up access to Xbox Cloud Gaming with a pay-as-you-go option next month, rather than being limited to Game Pass subscriptions.

This pay-as-you-go option is perfectly timed for Grand Theft Auto VI, allowing those who don't own an Xbox, or who primarily play from a phone, to stream the game by paying for a bundle of hours.

Sharma also told employees that Project Helix, the next generation of Xbox hardware, will be a family of devices and that Microsoft will partner with others on some of those devices.

Key facts

  • Xbox has secured game streaming rights for Grand Theft Auto VI
  • The game will be available to stream on Xbox Cloud Gaming at launch
  • The deal is not exclusive to Xbox consoles
  • Microsoft is opening up access to Xbox Cloud Gaming with a pay-as-you-go option

Three perspectives

Neutral

The deal between Xbox and Grand Theft Auto VI is a significant development in the gaming industry, and its impact will depend on how well Xbox Cloud Gaming can handle the demand. The pay-as-you-go option will provide more flexibility for players. The partnership between Microsoft and other companies on Project Helix will be worth watching.

Positive

The deal is a major win for Xbox, as it will allow players to access Grand Theft Auto VI without needing a console. The pay-as-you-go option will make the game more accessible to a wider audience. The partnership between Microsoft and other companies on Project Helix could lead to innovative new hardware.

Negative

The deal may not be as significant as initially thought, given that the game will not be streaming exclusively or to PC. The pay-as-you-go option may not be attractive to all players, and the cost of streaming the game could add up quickly. The partnership between Microsoft and other companies on Project Helix may not yield the expected results.

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