Recently, Microsoft faced criticism from the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regarding the price hike and new tier introduced for Xbox Game Pass. The FTC labeled the newly launched Xbox Game Pass Standard tier as “degraded” in a court filing, citing that it does not include new first-party titles on the day of release. Microsoft responded by calling the claim misleading and arguing that the new Standard tier actually offers more value than the discontinued Game Pass for Console tier.
In a court filing, Microsoft refuted the FTC’s claim that the new Standard tier is a degraded version of the previous Console Game Pass. The company pointed out that the discontinued product did not include multiplayer functionality, which had to be purchased separately for an additional cost. The new Xbox Game Pass Standard tier provides access to a vast library of games and online multiplayer at a lower price point. Microsoft also emphasized that the Game Pass Ultimate tier will offer even more value to players by including new titles “day-and-date,” such as the upcoming Call of Duty: Black Ops 6.
Microsoft defended its decision to adjust Game Pass pricing and introduce a new tier by stating that it is common for businesses to evolve their service offerings over time. The company highlighted that the new Game Pass tier does not restrict users from playing Call of Duty, despite the FTC’s claims of product degradation. Microsoft drew a comparison to Sony’s PlayStation Plus service, which has succeeded despite initially offering a limited selection of titles at launch.
Earlier this month, Microsoft announced price increases for Game Pass Ultimate, Xbox Game Pass Core, and PC Game Pass. The company also discontinued Game Pass for console for new subscribers. The newly introduced Game Pass Standard tier, set to launch in the near future, will provide players with access to a diverse range of games and online console multiplayer. However, members of the Standard tier will not have access to Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 on launch day.
Overall, Microsoft’s response to the criticism from the FTC highlights the company’s commitment to providing value to its subscribers through the Xbox Game Pass service. Despite the backlash, Microsoft continues to innovate and evolve its offerings to meet the changing needs of gamers. The upcoming launch of Game Pass Standard and exclusive titles like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 demonstrate Microsoft’s dedication to delivering a high-quality gaming experience for players around the world.
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