Microsoft recently took a step further with its Xbox Game Pass service, which underwent a near-total restructuring. After scrapping Game Pass for consoles and introducing Game Pass Standard, the company could be working on new cloud-based or ad-supported tiers.
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Windows Central broke the information in a July 22 report , with Jez Corden claiming that Microsoft is “working on a cloud-only version” of Game Pass at a lower price point than the Ultimate tier. This new variant would be aimed at those who don’t want to buy an Xbox console or don’t own any consoles. Cloud-based services were removed from lower tiers of Game Pass when Microsoft raised prices, and some services, like Game Pass for consoles, were discontinued entirely. The company may now be looking to offer cloud gaming to lower tier owners instead of just Ultimate subscribers.
Corden said that Microsoft has been "exploring the potential" of an ad-based version of Game Pass. Many other subscription-based services have introduced ad-based tiers at a lower price than their standard tiers, so the move would make sense. However, Corden argued that Microsoft is not "actively working" on this type of option at this time. Based on the state of the subscription market, it's highly likely that Microsoft will take a step in this direction at some point.
Xbox Game Pass is currently undergoing a revamp, with new tiers added, old ones dying, and price increases. Microsoft has changed the way day-one Game Pass titles are treated on its service, with only those who subscribe to Game Pass PC or Game Pass Ultimate allowed to participate. Game Pass Standard users will no longer have access to cloud gaming or day-one launches, forcing them to opt for the more expensive tiers to get the complete package.
