Logll Tech News — In a move that marks the end of an era, Microsoft has revealed plans to replace Xbox Live Gold with a new offering known as Game Pass Core.
- Starting from September 14th, gamers will witness a transformation in the way they access online multiplayer features and bonus games. This $60 per year (or $10 per month) subscription is essential for playing many online multiplayer games on consoles, although not all games will require it.
Farewell, Games with Gold
The sun sets on Games with Gold, a beloved feature that has delighted Live subscribers with a steady flow of exciting titles. However, with the advent of Game Pass Core, Microsoft is rethinking its strategy. Instead of a multitude of monthly bonuses, subscribers will now have access to a curated collection of over 25 games, with new entries introduced two to three times a year. This collection primarily comprises first-party games like Doom Eternal, Forza Horizon 4, and Halo 5. Occasionally, third-party projects like Among Us and Human Fall Flat will also make an appearance.
Seamless Transition for Existing Subscribers
If you are already an Xbox Live Gold member, worry not, as you will be automatically transitioned to Game Pass Core once it becomes available. Games with Gold will officially come to an end on September 1st, but fear not, as Xbox One games you have claimed will still be accessible to you, regardless of whether you subscribe to Core or the more extensive Ultimate membership. Furthermore, any redeemed Xbox 360 games are yours to keep, even if your subscription lapses.
A Strategic Shift
This change may be bittersweet for those who enjoyed the frequent expansion of Games with Gold’s catalog. While Game Pass Core does offer some exceptional titles, it seems like Microsoft is subtly nudging users towards the Ultimate subscription tier, which boasts a more extensive selection of games, including day-one releases, cloud gaming, and an EA Play membership. For those considering their options, Sony’s PlayStation Plus Essential, which continues to offer bonus games every month, might be an appealing alternative, especially for fans of Sony hardware.
PlayStation Plus Collection’s Departure
On the other side of the console divide, Sony made its move by discontinuing the PlayStation Plus Collection earlier this year. As a result, players who didn’t acquire the games through other promotions now have to pay to revisit some of the best games from the PS4 era. Although Microsoft’s approach doesn’t entirely mirror Sony’s, it does share some similarities, mainly focused on showcasing first-party releases and offering an instant gaming library.
With Game Pass Core on the horizon, the gaming community awaits this transformative change, pondering how it will shape their Xbox experiences. As both Microsoft and Sony adapt their strategies, gamers are sure to benefit from the competitive spirit driving innovation and improvement in the gaming industry.
Conclusion
As the gaming landscape evolves, major players like Microsoft and Sony continuously adapt their services to meet the needs of their passionate communities. With the impending arrival of Game Pass Core, Xbox enthusiasts will experience a fresh approach to accessing multiplayer features and enjoying a carefully curated collection of games. As the gaming rivalry between the giants persists, gamers can look forward to a future filled with exciting innovations, compelling titles, and unforgettable gaming experiences.