Xbox Game Pass may undergo a substantial transformation in early 2027, potentially removing the much-loved day-one game releases and cloud streaming capabilities, according to a recent leak. This alleged shake-up also hints at the introduction of an ad-supported subscription tier.
The information originates from ResetEra user Slayven, who has previously shared accurate details about Microsoft's Game Pass plans, including price increases and tier adjustments. The latest report suggests a rearrangement of Game Pass tiers, possibly accompanied by a slight price reduction in exchange for the removal of new games offered on their launch day.
Further details from the leak indicate the introduction of an ad-supported tier and the complete removal of cloud streaming from the core Game Pass service. These changes are reportedly scheduled to occur between February and April 2027.
While the specifics remain unconfirmed, the leak outlines a potential new structure for Game Pass, including three tiers: an ad-supported option priced at $13 monthly, an ad-free tier at $20 per month (or $240 annually), and a third tier for $15 that includes access to the existing game library and online multiplayer. Notably, day-one game releases and cloud streaming would reportedly be eliminated from all tiers. Cloud streaming might be available as a separate $6 add-on offering 25 hours of playtime, and online multiplayer would require an $11 subscription.
Microsoft has not directly confirmed these rumors, with a statement to Forbes reporter Paul Tassi indicating that "no changes are currently planned." The company added that they "regularly test different Game Pass offerings and look at what works best for players in different markets," but currently have "no changes to announce today or plans that have been finalised." Microsoft also reiterated that "there are no changes to previously announced games coming to Game Pass Ultimate on day one."
Questions remain about the inclusion of online multiplayer in the proposed main tiers and the future of PC Game Pass, as previous rumors about its discontinuation did not materialize. Noted leaker NateTheHate has vouched for the reliability of Slayven's information, suggesting that the source "clearly has knowledge of some matters," though timelines may shift.
This potential overhaul follows Microsoft's recent price adjustments for Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass in April, which coincided with the removal of Call of Duty as a day-one release. The company has also recently implemented significant limitations on Xbox cloud streaming across all existing Game Pass tiers, reportedly set at Microsoft's break-even point. Xbox CEO Asha Sharma has previously expressed interest in evolving Game Pass into a more flexible system, stating in April that "we will evolve Game Pass into a more flexible system which will take time to test and learn around."