Microsoft has responded to rumors circulating online about potential upcoming changes to Xbox Game Pass, which included the possibility of removing day-one game releases from the service as early as next spring. A statement from a Microsoft spokesperson indicated that the company has not yet "finalize[d]" any such alterations.
Reports began to spread this week, originating from a ResetEra moderator who has previously shared accurate information about Game Pass changes. The claims suggested Microsoft might introduce two tiers for Xbox Game Pass: one with advertising for $12.99 per month and another without ads for $19.99 per month (or $239.99 annually). Under this proposed structure, the ad-free tier would offer a slight monthly saving but would no longer include day-one game releases. Additionally, cloud streaming and family plan options were suggested to become separate add-ons costing $5.99 per month each.
Further speculation indicated that online multiplayer access might also become a separate charge, with possibilities for paying solely for online gameplay or for online play combined with access to a game library. This mirrors some aspects of the current Xbox Game Pass Essential experience.
While the Microsoft spokesperson's statement did not confirm the specifics of the leak, it also did not refute them, instead emphasizing that decisions are still in progress. Previous comments from Xbox boss Asha Sharma have touched upon the idea of incorporating advertising to potentially lower subscription costs. The financial viability of offering new games on day one through Game Pass has also been a long-standing point of discussion, evidenced by past price adjustments for Game Pass Ultimate and the exclusion of titles like Call of Duty from day-one access.
Removing day-one releases could potentially improve profit margins for the service and encourage more players to purchase games outright. However, it could also significantly diminish the appeal of Game Pass for many subscribers, potentially leading to cancellations.