However, players should be conscious on what else Microsoft’s dealings mean for them. The Xbox Game Pass is a very convenient and worthwhile exchange for players happy to peruse its offerings, but they might not be paying $10 or $15 for a subscription forever. Microsoft not only has a lot of significant exterior game deals going on, but it hasmajor projects likeHalo Infinitethat will arrive on Game Pass eventually. The value of Game Pass can only go up, and eventually, that means there’ll be a price increase, too. It may not be something Microsoft is discussing openly, but fans should think of it as on the table.
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A Tide of Titles
As of this writing, it’s only been about two weeks sinceXbox fans learned that EA Playwas striking a deal with the Game Pass. Thanks to that, games likeMass EffectandDragon Ageare going to be available on the cloud. That’s certainly a big deal, and could indicate that Microsoft will strike similar deals in future. For instance, imagine if Microsoft eventually strikes a deal with Ubisoft to let some games appear on Game Pass regularly.Watch Dogs LegionorAssassin’s Creed Valhallacould be incredibly valuable additions to the service’s roster.
The Bethesda acquisition indicates another front on which there might be a lot more content coming to the pass. It goes without saying that Microsoft is a big company, and it has the power and resources to buy out companies that have shaped the industry like Bethesda. Now thatThe Elder Scrolls 6is likely to become an Xbox exclusive,Game Pass is shooting up in value. Dedicated PS5 fans that still want to play the game might buy into Game Pass for PC just to try Bethesda’s next fantasy adventure. All in all, Game Pass is a veritable gold mine, and Microsoft seems determined to find more ways to make it successful.
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Upping The Ante
On the one hand, there’s the distinct chance that Microsoft decides to bank on these acquisitions drawing in enough players that it can make up for the expense of such deals on volume. On the other hand, Microsoft knows that it can justify charging more for a product that it’s improving upon. Adding more products is liable to bring in new players regardless of a possible price increase, especially if they’re enticing exclusive products likeHalo Infiniteand possiblyThe Elder Scrolls 6.
Xbox Game Pass might not necessarily see a tremendous spike in price – in fact, it probably won’t. It would be a disaster for Microsoft if it suddenly scared off its supporters after putting so much effort into making this service work. Still, it would be a pretty big surprise if Microsoft doesn’t decide that Xbox Game Pass is worth an extra dollar or two in monthly fees, considering the bump in content that its gotten. Betting on this service is paying off so far for its developer.Game Pass is a big selling pointfor the Xbox Series X and S, and it’s a valuable asset even now, well before the release of the new consoles. Players should keep an eye out for news about any changes to theXbox Game Pass’s prices.
