Microsoft has made significant changes to its Xbox Game Pass. Among these is the introduction of a new subscription level, “Standard.” However, subscribers will lose access to more than just new releases, with over 40 existing games being removed.
Xbox Game Pass is a subscription service from Microsoft that gives you access to a vast library of games for a monthly fee. You can play these games on Xbox consoles, Windows PCs, and even stream them on mobile devices via the cloud. The service includes new releases on day one, popular titles, and a variety of genres to explore.
Xbox Game Pass: Microsoft pushes players towards pricier subscriptions
In August 2024, Microsoft unveiled a new tier system for the Xbox Game Pass, introducing the “Standard” plan at €14.99 per month. Unlike the “Core” plan, priced at €9.99 per month and offering access to only about 25 console games, the Standard tier allows users to access hundreds of titles. From the start, Microsoft was clear that new releases would no longer be available for Standard subscribers. However, it has now become apparent that they will also lose access to upcoming Day-One games (Source: Xbox Wire).
In addition to the removal of new releases, more than 40 existing games have been cut from the Standard plan, including popular titles such as Diablo 4, Starfield, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, PayDay 3, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2, and Valorant. To continue playing these games and to unlock exclusive features, such as specific character options, subscribers will now need to upgrade to the more expensive “Ultimate” plan, which costs €19.99 per month (Source: Microsoft Xbox).
Xbox Game Pass: Standard subscribers face delays for new games
Players who choose the Standard plan over the Ultimate plan will also need to prepare for delays. According to Microsoft, Day-One games will not be available immediately but may be added after up to 12 months, or even longer. This news is likely to disappoint many gamers who were hoping for quick access to the latest blockbuster releases (Source: Xbox Wire).