Microsoft recently raised the pricing for Xbox Game Pass and introduced a new ‘Standard’ tier for the game subscription service. However, reports suggest that the tech giant might be exploring the possibility of adding more tiers to the Game Pass lineup. Rumors indicate that Microsoft could be working on a cloud-only subscription tier, an ad-supported tier, and even a friends and family plan for Game Pass.
According to sources cited by Windows Central, Microsoft is considering a cloud-only version of Game Pass. This tier would allow players on devices outside of the Xbox ecosystem to access the service’s catalogue of games. Not only would this make Game Pass more accessible to a wider range of players, but it could also be priced more affordably than the current Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription. Furthermore, there are talks of making this cloud-only tier available on competing console platforms, potentially expanding Game Pass’s reach beyond the Xbox ecosystem.
Ad-Supported Tier
Another rumored addition to the Game Pass lineup is an ad-supported tier. This tier would cater to players who prefer not to pay a subscription fee for Game Pass. Instead, they would have access to an ad-based version of the service at no cost. This model mirrors the ad-based tiers offered by streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. The introduction of an ad-supported tier could open up Game Pass to a broader audience who may not be willing to pay for a subscription but are still interested in accessing a library of games.
In addition to the above tiers, there are whispers of Microsoft bringing back the Xbox Game Pass Friends and Family Plan. This plan, which was previously tested in select regions but never fully rolled out, would cater to multiple users within a single family. Much like family plans offered by other subscription services, the Friends and Family Plan would provide a cost-effective way for households to enjoy Game Pass together. By accommodating multiple users under one plan, Microsoft could encourage more families to subscribe to the service.
Recent Developments
Microsoft recently launched its Xbox cloud gaming service on the Amazon Fire TV Stick, allowing Game Pass Ultimate subscribers to access Xbox titles without the need for a dedicated console. This move comes on the heels of the company’s decision to increase Game Pass pricing across various tiers and territories. The timing of the price hike coincides with the announcement that the upcoming Call of Duty title, Black Ops 6, will be available on Game Pass at launch. Microsoft is also reportedly planning to add last year’s Modern Warfare 3 to the service later this month.
Microsoft’s exploration of new Game Pass tiers and features indicates its commitment to evolving the game subscription service to meet the diverse needs of players. By considering options such as a cloud-only tier, an ad-supported tier, and a friends and family plan, Microsoft aims to make Game Pass more accessible and attractive to a broader audience. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, Microsoft’s efforts to innovate Game Pass could position the service as a leading player in the subscription gaming space.
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