Nearly two weeks ago, Microsoft sent shockwaves through the gaming industry by announcing significant changes to its Game Pass subscription service. The changes included price hikes for Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass, and the introduction of a new tier called “Game Pass Standard,” which will not feature day-one releases. These announcements have already caused a stir among gamers and industry analysts alike. Adding to the controversy, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) criticized these changes, suggesting that they degrade the overall value of the Game Pass service. Despite the backlash, it appears that Microsoft is far from finished with its plans to reshape Game Pass. Recent reports suggest that the company is preparing to introduce several new tiers, including a Cloud-Only tier and a potentially ad-supported tier.

Game Pass Could Get Even More Confusing Soon

According to Jez Corden of Windows Central, who has a reliable track record with insider information, Microsoft is considering several new additions to the Game Pass hierarchy. Corden’s report, published on Monday, outlines potential new tiers and changes that Microsoft might implement in the near future.

Introduction of a Cloud-Only Tier

One of the most notable potential additions is a Cloud-Only tier. This tier is expected to be more affordable than Game Pass Ultimate, making it attractive to a broader range of consumers. The Cloud-Only tier is specifically designed for gamers who prefer cloud gaming and have no intention of purchasing an Xbox Series console. This move is particularly relevant in light of recent trends, such as Amazon’s Prime Day deal, which bundled everything needed to play cloud games via Fire Stick at a competitive price. By introducing a Cloud-Only tier, Microsoft aims to capture a segment of the market that is interested in gaming but not in investing in physical hardware.

Potential Return of Game Pass Friends and Family

Corden’s report also mentions the possible return of Game Pass Friends and Family, a plan that was previously tested but did not achieve the desired results. However, there are indications that Microsoft has not completely abandoned the idea. If Game Pass Friends and Family does make a comeback, it is expected to come with a price increase to align with the other changes being introduced. Despite the potential price hike, this plan could still offer significant savings for families or groups of gamers compared to individual subscriptions.

Exploring an Ad-Supported Plan

In addition to the Cloud-Only and Friends and Family tiers, Microsoft is reportedly exploring the possibility of introducing an ad-supported plan for Game Pass. This idea is inspired by the success of similar models in other industries, such as streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime, and music services like Spotify. An ad-supported Game Pass tier could lower the subscription cost, making the service accessible to more users. However, Corden notes that while Microsoft is considering this option, it is not actively pursuing it at this time. The implementation of such a plan would depend on various factors, including user acceptance and potential revenue from advertisements.

Microsoft’s Strategy for Game Pass

The potential introduction of these new tiers indicates that Microsoft is actively seeking ways to expand and diversify its Game Pass subscriber base. By offering different plans tailored to various consumer needs and preferences, Microsoft aims to attract a wider audience and increase overall subscriptions. The company’s willingness to experiment with different models, such as cloud-only gaming and ad-supported subscriptions, shows its commitment to staying competitive in the evolving gaming industry.

Final Thoughts

The introduction of new tiers to the Game Pass subscription service highlights Microsoft’s strategic approach to addressing diverse consumer needs and staying competitive in the gaming industry. Whether it’s through cloud gaming or ad-supported models, Microsoft is exploring various avenues to enhance the appeal of Game Pass. These potential changes could redefine the gaming subscription model, providing more flexibility and options for gamers. As we await further announcements, it is clear that Microsoft’s vision for Game Pass is far from static, with ongoing efforts to innovate and expand its offerings.

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