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- Microsoft has big changes planned for Xbox Game Pass.
- The popular PC-only tier appears to be disappearing, with plans to introduce a new ad-based tier by next year.
- Microsoft also appears to be changing the subscription’s naming scheme, along with other elements.
Xbox Game Pass has been the driving force behind Microsoft’s current growth in the gaming business over the past few years. This service has generated billions of dollars recently, but it has also encountered a few hurdles.
Due to multiple price hikes, the value proposition of Xbox Game Pass has become slightly less attractive than it once was. Although the service continues to provide exceptional games, fans are skeptical about its future.
Now, Xbox has announced a price increase for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which will cost $360 per year.
Why it matters: Xbox Game Pass could lose further popularity once these changes take effect, potentially shifting the direction of Microsoft’s gaming division.
For starters, PC Game Pass is about to be discontinued in favor of the standard console tiers. Game Pass Ultimate is also expected to see a price hike to $29.99/month, though this particular change may be implemented next year.
Elsewhere, Xbox seems to have plans to add cloud streaming to all tiers of the service as part of its push for cloud gaming. Finally, Microsoft appears to be introducing its long-rumored ad-based tier next year.
This could become the cheapest way to access Xbox Game Pass content by 2026. Adding to the list of changes, an even more affordable or free tier limited to cloud gaming could be coming to the service next year. All in all, Xbox Game Pass is set to go through its biggest overhaul to date.
Microsoft’s big overhaul also includes plans to change the naming scheme and bring it closer in line with that of PlayStation’s subscription.
By next year, Xbox Game Pass could be divided into three tiers: Essential, Premium, and Ultimate. These changes are likely to be rolled out gradually, but by this time next year, the subscription could look completely different.
What do you think about Microsoft’s plans? Let’s discuss in the comments and on the Tech4Gamers Forums.
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[Senior News Reporter]
Avinash is currently pursuing a Business degree in Australia. For more than 5 years, he has been working as a gaming journalist, utilizing his writing skills and love for gaming to report on the latest updates in the industry. Avinash loves to play action games like Devil May Cry and has also been mentioned on highly regarded websites, such as IGN, GamesRadar, GameRant, Dualshockers, CBR, and Gamespot.
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