Microsoft considers changes for Game Pass

Microsoft Gaming's new CEO, Asha Sharma, has said that Xbox Game Pass is "too expensive" for players. The remark has prompted a rethink of the subscription service's current model.

New approach for Game Pass

According to recent reports, Microsoft is considering introducing a new Game Pass tier focused solely on first-party Xbox games, made by studios owned by Microsoft. Sharma stressed that the current Game Pass setup is not final and that this evolution is necessary because of changes in player behavior, content economics, and markets.

Bundling services

Alongside a new first-party-only tier, Microsoft is also looking at options for bundling third-party services. At the moment, a Game Pass Ultimate subscription already includes access to Fortnite Crew, Ubisoft+ Classics, and EA Play. There are no specific details yet on which other services could be added in the future, but discussions around such bundles are ongoing.

Call of Duty's impact on Game Pass

Another major consideration is whether Microsoft will continue to bring new Call of Duty releases to Game Pass at launch. The decision to add Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 to the service in 2024 is said to have cost $300 million in lost sales. However, that approach also boosted new subscriber numbers and brought back inactive members, complicating the financial picture.

Feedback and future plans

Changes to Game Pass are not expected immediately. Sharma is currently taking time to listen to key stakeholders and gather feedback. Analysts have also suggested a cheaper tier, around $6 per month. Another possibility under consideration is an Xbox Cloud Gaming tier that offers free access to games in exchange for watching ads.

Over the coming months, more clarity is expected on how Microsoft plans to adapt Xbox Game Pass to the needs of a wide range of gamers and the changing market.