Microsoft has drastically changed the structure of the Xbox Game Pass service, removing access to numerous titles for Standard subscribers. The new policy, which went into effect a few days ago, means that only Ultimate subscribers can access first- and second-party games on launch day, on both consoles and PC.
The change took many subscribers by surprise, who, switching from the old formula to the new Standard, found themselves suddenly found themselves without access to games they could previously use. Microsoft’s decision not only affects future titles, but applies retroactively even those already available in the catalogue.
The removed titles are really numerous and have made many subscribers question the Xbox service.
The choice to switch to the Standard band has become necessary for many users who want Maintain access to Xbox Live Gold online services. However, this has resulted in the loss of access to several notable titles, prompting them to consider the Ultimate subscription (which you can find it on Amazon in the form of a code, if you don’t want to be tied to a renewable subscription).
Games removed from the Standard catalog include high-profile productions such as Starfield, Diablo 4, Forza Motorsport e Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3The list includes over 40 titles, including many eagerly awaited new releases and well-received independent productions.
If for third party games the removal could be linked to new agreements with publishersthe choice to exclude first party productions such as Starfield from the Standard range is less clear, considering that they were already present in the previous catalogue.
A possible explanation for this move could be Microsoft’s attempt to increase the perception of value added to the Ultimate subscription, pushing users toward the more expensive tier of the service.
The new Game Pass structure marks a significant change in Microsoft’s policy regarding its video game subscription service, with potential repercussions on the market and on gamers’ habits.
It remains to be seen how this strategy will impact subscriber loyalty and the competitiveness of the service in the long term.
Source: www.tomshw.it
