Microsoft’s Xbox Play Anywhere initiative, which allows for cross-platform play on Windows 10 and Xbox One games, just got a bit sweeter. Microsoft has confirmed that Xbox Live Gold is not required for the feature except if online multiplayer (or equivalent features like Arenas) is involved.
This was confirmed to GameSpot by a Microsoft rep who stated that, “Xbox Live Gold isn’t required for playing games that are Xbox Play Anywhere other than enjoying online multiplayer with those games on Xbox One. Similarly, Xbox Live Gold is needed for playing online multiplayer on Xbox One through Arenas on Xbox Live.”
We’re pretty sure you still need Xbox Live Gold if you’re on Xbox One and playing with your friends on Windows 10. But if you want to transfer progress or access games purchased digitally on a different platform, then you won’t need Gold.
Thoughts on the Xbox Play Anywhere initiative? Let us know in the comments below.