Microsoft Announces Xbox Game Pass Core, Replacing Xbox Live Gold Program
Microsoft has recently announced the launch of Xbox Game Pass Core, a new subscription service that will replace the longstanding Xbox Live Gold program. This move comes as Xbox Live Gold has seen a decline in popularity over the past few years due to a lack of compelling free game offerings. Xbox Game Pass Core is set to be introduced on September 14th, and will be available at a monthly cost of $9.99, or a yearly subscription of $59.99. According to Xbox, this new subscription tier serves as an evolution of Xbox Live Gold.
The Xbox blog states, “Game Pass Core will give players access to our advanced multiplayer network, a select collection of over 25 games to play with friends around the world, and exclusive member deals.”
As part of this transition, the popular Games with Gold feature, which provides players with free games to download each month, will be discontinued on September 1st. Xbox has explained that they are using this opportunity to reimagine how to offer content with this subscription, and have determined that leveraging select titles from the Xbox Game Pass catalog will provide the most compelling experience.
The Launch Game Lineup for Xbox Game Pass Core
- Among Us
- Descenders
- Dishonored 2
- Doom Eternal
- Fable Anniversary
- Fallout 4
- Fallout 76
- Forza Horizon 4
- Gears 5
- Grounded
- Halo 5: Guardians
- Halo Wars 2
- Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice
- Human Fall Flat
- Inside
- Ori & The Will of the Wisps
- Psychonauts 2
- State of Decay 2
- The Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited
Xbox has also stated that they will be adding new titles to the Core catalog two to three times a year.
For current Xbox Live Gold members, there will be a seamless transition to Xbox Game Pass Core on September 14th, with no change in pricing. Members will have immediate access to the new Core catalog as well. Additionally, any Xbox One games that have been redeemed through Games with Gold will remain in the member’s library if they are a subscriber to Xbox Game Pass Core or Ultimate. Xbox 360 games obtained through Games with Gold will be retained regardless of subscription status.
It’s worth noting that Xbox Game Pass continues to experience growth in its subscriber base, even during a time when Xbox gaming revenue is down.
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