September 11th 2024.
The new standard tier for Xbox Game Pass has arrived and it's bringing with it some unexpected side effects. Microsoft announced the changes back in July, and now the standard tier is live worldwide. But what does this mean for subscribers?
First, let's take a look at what the standard tier offers. Formerly known as the Xbox Game Pass for Console tier, it is now called Game Pass Standard and is available for a monthly fee of £10.99. This membership gives players access to hundreds of games, online functionality, and various discounts.
However, there have been some changes to the available games. Around 40 titles that were previously part of the Console subscription have been removed. This includes big names like Diablo 4, Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2, and Starfield, as well as indie titles like Another Crab's Treasure and Botany Manor.
Even Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, which was added to the service in July, has been removed. This is most likely due to the upcoming release of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, which will be available day one on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. This move is an attempt by Microsoft to boost subscriber numbers, as it is believed that gaming-based subscription services are struggling.
But what does this mean for players who want to access new games on the day of release? Well, for now, the only way to do so is by subscribing to Game Pass Ultimate, which costs £14.99 per month. It's important to note that PC-only members can still access day one releases and EA Play titles for £9.99 per month.
In addition, Microsoft has confirmed that it could take up to 12 months or more for new games to be released on the standard tier. So if you're a standard subscriber, you may have to wait a while before you can play games like Indiana Jones and the Great Circle or Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024.
Unfortunately, Microsoft has not provided an official list of the games that are no longer available for standard subscribers. However, players have compiled a list of titles that have been removed, which you can find below.
But don't worry, there are still other subscription options available. The Core membership, which costs £6.99 per month, gives players access to a smaller catalogue of over 25 games, online functionality, and discounts.
In conclusion, the new standard tier for Xbox Game Pass may have some drawbacks, but it's still a great option for accessing a large library of games. And with the upcoming releases of highly anticipated titles like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, it may be worth considering upgrading to the Ultimate subscription.
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