Microsoft has recently introduced a new tier of Game Pass on Xbox called Game Pass Standard, which replaces the original Game Pass for Console subscription. This new tier falls between Game Pass Core and Game Pass Ultimate, offering a mix of benefits that may leave some gamers feeling bittersweet.
Game Pass Standard was announced in July alongside a price increase for Game Pass Ultimate, which now costs $20 a month. The good news is that Standard now includes all the benefits of Game Pass Core, allowing access to online multiplayer without restrictions on free-to-play games. However, Standard does not offer access to cloud gaming or other perks exclusive to the Ultimate tier, such as the EA Play catalog and PC gaming.
For PC gamers, Game Pass for PC subscription remains unchanged, providing access to a separate library of games. Unfortunately, Game Pass Standard no longer offers Day 1 access to first-party Xbox games. Players will have to wait for these titles to be added to the Standard Game Pass catalog before they can be downloaded and played.
Additionally, the price for Game Pass Standard has increased to $15 a month. While this may be cheaper than subscribing to Game Pass for Xbox and Game Pass Core separately, some users may be unhappy about paying more for fewer benefits. Existing Game Pass for Console subscribers can continue with their current subscriptions, but new subscribers will only have the option to subscribe to Game Pass Standard.
Despite these changes, Game Pass Standard still provides access to a wide range of games, albeit without immediate access to new Xbox titles. The shift in the subscription model may not sit well with all gamers, especially those who value playing the latest releases on day one.
In conclusion, the launch of Game Pass Standard on Xbox brings a mix of benefits and drawbacks for gamers. While the new tier offers some improvements over the original Game Pass for Console subscription, the changes in pricing and access to new titles may leave some players feeling uncertain about the value of their subscription. Ultimately, the decision to switch to Game Pass Standard or stick with existing plans will depend on individual gaming preferences and priorities.