Xbox Live Gold is being replaced by a new tier of Game Pass called Xbox Game Pass Core, which will have a rotating library of a few dozen games instead of allowing players to claim some titles for their collection each month.
The first list of Game Pass Core titles has been revealed, and it includes a mix of popular and indie games, such as:
- Vampire Survivors
- Celeste
- Doom Eternal
- Dishonored 2
- Forza Horizon 4
- Gears 5
- Halo 5: Guardians
- Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice
- Ori & the Will of the Wisps
- Overcooked! 2
- Psychonauts 2
- Slay the Spire
- Stardew Valley
- State of Decay 2
- The Elder Scrolls Online
While there are some great games on this list, some players are hoping for more exciting selections, given that Game Pass Core will be the base tier of Game Pass and will cost $60 per year. Microsoft has said that it plans to update the list two or three times per year, so players may have to wait three to six months for new games to be added to the library.
However, it is important to note that Game Pass Core is not just about the games library. It also includes other features, such as:
- Access to Xbox multiplayer games
- Exclusive discounts on select games
- Free trials of new games
Additionally, Game Pass Core is required to play some multiplayer games on Xbox, such as Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III.
Overall, Xbox Game Pass Core is a good value for gamers who want to have access to a wide variety of games and other features. However, it is important to keep in mind that the games library is rotating, so players may have to wait for new games to be added. Additionally, the selection of games may not be as exciting as some players were hoping for.
Here are some additional thoughts on Xbox Game Pass Core:
- It is possible that Microsoft is holding back on some of its most popular games for higher tiers of Game Pass, such as Game Pass Ultimate. This would make sense from a business perspective, as it would encourage players to subscribe to the more expensive tier.
- It is also possible that Microsoft is simply taking a cautious approach with the initial selection of Game Pass Core titles. The company may want to wait and see how players react to the new service before adding more popular games.
- Ultimately, the success of Xbox Game Pass Core will depend on the value that it offers to players. If players feel like they are getting a good deal, then they will be more likely to subscribe to the service. However, if players feel like the selection of games is not good enough, then they will be less likely to subscribe.
Only time will tell how Xbox Game Pass Core will fare. However, it is a promising new service that has the potential to change the way people play games on Xbox.
