Microsoft’s new gaming leader, Asha Sharma, has indicated potential changes to the pricing of Xbox Game Pass. In a memo directed to Xbox employees, obtained by El-Balad, Sharma revealed that the current pricing model is not sustainable. She stated that “Game Pass has become too expensive for players” and emphasized the need for “a better value equation.”
Concerns About Game Pass Pricing
Sharma acknowledged that Xbox Game Pass is crucial to providing value in gaming. However, she clearly indicated that the existing pricing model will evolve. “In the short term, Game Pass has become too expensive for players,” she mentioned, while outlining plans for a more flexible approach that would require time to implement.
Recent Price Increases
In 2022, Microsoft raised the cost of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to $29.99 per month, marking a significant 50% increase. This hike was justified by various enhancements across all service tiers, yet it has evidently impacted user engagement.
- 2022 Price Increase: Xbox Game Pass Ultimate rose to $29.99/month.
- Concerns arose about the inclusion of Call of Duty in the subscription model.
- Microsoft added Call of Duty to Game Pass in summer 2024.
Future of Call of Duty in Game Pass
There are ongoing discussions about the future of Call of Duty within the Game Pass framework. Some reports suggest that Microsoft might consider removing the popular title from the subscription service. Jez Corden from Windows Central recently hinted at this possibility, stating, “If they take Call of Duty out of Game Pass this year, it could reveal some cracks in the strategy.”
Next Steps for Xbox
Sharma is aware of a growing online discussion regarding potential price adjustments. She plans to provide further insight during meetings with Xbox employees in the near future. There are no immediate price changes expected, but it is clear that Sharma is taking the pricing issues seriously and preparing to address them comprehensively.
