Microsoft’s recent price hike for Xbox Game Pass and the introduction of a new ‘Standard’ tier may just be the beginning of changes to the popular game subscription service. According to reports from Windows Central, Microsoft is working on introducing additional new Game Pass tiers. These new tiers could potentially include a cloud-only subscription tier, an ad-supported tier, and even a friends and family plan.
One of the rumored new tiers for Xbox Game Pass is a cloud-only subscription tier. This tier would allow players on devices outside of the Xbox ecosystem to access the full catalog of games offered by the service. Not only would this expand the reach of Game Pass to a wider audience, but it could also potentially be available on competing console platforms. This tier is expected to be more affordable than the current Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
Another exciting possibility is the return of the Xbox Game Pass Friends and Family Plan. This plan, previously tested in select regions but never fully rolled out, would cater to multiple users within a single family. Similar to family plans offered by other subscription services, this would allow families to access Game Pass together, providing a more cost-effective option for households with multiple gamers.
Ad-Supported Game Pass Tier
In line with popular streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, Microsoft is also reportedly considering introducing an ad-supported Game Pass tier. This tier would cater to players who prefer not to pay a subscription fee for Game Pass and would instead have access to an ad-based version of the service at no cost. This alternative model could open up Game Pass to a whole new audience who may be hesitant to commit to a paid subscription.
Recently, Microsoft launched the Xbox cloud gaming service on the Xbox app for the Amazon Fire TV Stick. This development allows Game Pass Ultimate subscribers to access the platform’s cloud gaming service and play Xbox titles on the Fire TV Stick without the need for a dedicated Xbox console. This move demonstrates Microsoft’s commitment to expanding the accessibility of Game Pass to a wider range of devices and platforms.
Strategic Moves in Response to Industry Trends
Microsoft’s decision to adjust pricing for Game Pass across different tiers and territories comes after the announcement that the highly anticipated Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 will be available on Xbox’s game subscription service at launch. This strategic move, coupled with plans to potentially add other popular titles like Modern Warfare 3 to Game Pass, signals Microsoft’s commitment to staying competitive in the gaming industry.
The potential introduction of new Game Pass tiers, such as a cloud-only subscription, a friends and family plan, and an ad-supported tier, demonstrates Microsoft’s willingness to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of the gaming industry. By offering more options and flexibility to gamers, Microsoft is positioning Xbox Game Pass as a leading game subscription service that caters to a diverse range of players.
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