Xbox will now allows download and install of games to a console without having to purchase the game beforehand.
Jerko Cilas of Lords of Gaming made the discovery while playing around with the new Xbox app, downloading and installing Assassin’s Creed Valhalla without purchase.
Cilas wrote:
Xbox has a new feature that allows you to download and install any game, even if you don’t own it. For example if you have ordered a [disc-based] version of the game you will be able to preload the game before your [disc] arrives. Meaning you can play the game the moment you insert the [disc].
This could also mean that players could install games while they’re deciding if they want to purchase or not. When the decision is made, the game’s already there.
We'll keep you updated as we learn more about the feature, which assumedly would work across both Xbox One and Xbox Series consoles.