Microsoft has introduced three new Xbox Game Pass tiers: Essential, Premium, and Ultimate. The changes apply across console, PC, and cloud, and all current subscribers will be moved into the updated plans automatically.

Essential is priced at $9.99 per month. It replaces the old Core plan and gives players a library of more than 50 games including Hades, Cities: Skylines – Remastered, and Warhammer 40,000: Darktide. The plan also includes online multiplayer, unlimited cloud streaming, in-game perks, and Rewards capped at $25 per year. Essential members earn 1× points on purchases, equal to 10 points per dollar spent.

Premium costs $14.99 per month and expands the library to more than 200 titles. Games can be played across console, PC, and cloud. Notable additions include Diablo IV, Hogwarts Legacy, and Grand Theft Auto V. Premium also provides faster cloud performance, in-game bonuses for supported titles, and access to Xbox-published games within a year of release. Rewards are worth up to $50 per year, with 2× points on purchases and about 5 percent cashback on eligible Game Pass titles.

Ultimate now costs $29.99 per month, a 50 percent increase. Microsoft says this is the biggest upgrade the plan has received. The catalog grows to more than 400 games with over 75 day-one releases a year. Confirmed titles include Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, Ninja Gaiden 4, High on Life 2, and The Outer Worlds 2. Starting November 18, Ultimate will include Fortnite Crew, normally $11.99 per month, and Ubisoft+ Classics, valued at $7.99 per month. Other features include Xbox Cloud Gaming up to 1440p with shorter wait times, and expanded Rewards up to $100 annually with 4× points on purchases and up to 10 percent back on select games and add-ons.

Community response has been divided. Some players praised the addition of Fortnite Crew and Ubisoft+ Classics, saying the value justifies the higher cost. Others criticized the $30 monthly price and said they plan to cancel. You can follow this link to know more about what games are included in each tier.

In other news, the ROG Xbox Ally series consoles will soon be available to buy in the US, Europe and other regions. These Windows 11-based consoles come with special optimization, a unique Xbox console interface and upgraded hardware, making them the unofficial Xbox handheld that fans have been asking for a while.

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A recent report by The Information has sparked conversations about Microsoft’s long-term plans for its Xbox division. According to the report, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella considered the possibility of shutting down the division in 2021. At a critical decision point, Nadella evaluated whether to exit the gaming market or pursue a path of significant expansion, which ultimately led to the acquisition of major gaming studios Bethesda (for $7.5 billion) and Activision Blizzard (for $75.4 billion).

Microsoft has denied these claims, but the report raises important questions about the division’s performance and future direction. As we know, Xbox hardware sales have seen a decrease, with a reported 29% decline compared to the previous year. In response, Microsoft has been focusing more on its Game Pass subscription service.

Despite this shift in priorities, the Xbox division did not meet its revenue growth targets in 2023, falling short of the 11% benchmark linked to CEO Satya Nadella’s bonus for the year. Notably, Microsoft has stopped tying Nadella’s compensation goals to Game Pass growth, which may signal waning confidence in the Game Pass model.

The company has set a target of surpassing 100 million subscribers by 2030, a substantial increase from the 34 million reported as of February 2024. Reaching this goal would require tripling the subscriber base within five years, with an annual growth rate of 40%.

Microsoft reported a 36% increase in subscriptions since 2022, but this figure has not been independently verified. While the company has celebrated recent successes, including record Game Pass subscription numbers after the release of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, concerns remain about whether such growth can be sustained.

Opinions on the future of Game Pass vary among analysts and industry observers. Michael Pachter, a well-known analyst, sees potential in the model, stating, “Seventy billion dollars is a big investment. Short-term losses are fine if Game Pass proves to be a reliable source of recurring revenue over time.”

Others are more cautious. Gus Zinn from the Macquarie Science and Technology Fund has expressed doubts about the widespread adoption of the Game Pass model. Developers have echoed similar concerns, with some estimating that premium game sales on Xbox consoles could decline by as much as 80% when their titles are available through Game Pass.

Microsoft has responded to these discussions by reaffirming its commitment to the Xbox brand. A company spokesperson stated that Microsoft remains focused on gaming and highlighted Satya Nadella’s “all-in” approach.

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In a first for the franchise, Microsoft Xbox announced today that “Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3” is now available for download on Xbox Game Pass for Console, PC Game Pass, and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. The game became playable at 1 am Beijing time on July 25th (July 24th, 10:00 PM PST).

CoD: Black Ops 6 is also coming to the Xbox Game Pass at launch

This addition to the subscription service marks a turning point for the Call of Duty series on Xbox platforms. Previously, no Call of Duty title had been included in the Xbox Game Pass library. The move comes after Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, the publisher behind the Call of Duty franchise.

Originally launched in November 2023, Modern Warfare 3 is a fairly known game in the Call of Duty series featuring a single-player campaign and a multiplayer mode.

While Microsoft has not commented on future plans for the Call of Duty series on Xbox Game Pass, they have confirmed that “Black Ops 6,” scheduled for release on October 25th, 2024, will also be available on the service at launch.

(Via)

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Microsoft‘s strategy for the EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) market appears to be shifting away from traditional Xbox consoles, according to a report from The Verge on July 12th. The report suggests Microsoft might be considering discontinuing console sales within the region altogether, focusing instead on promoting its cloud gaming services, Xbox Game Pass subscriptions, and controllers.

Microsoft has been focusing on cloud gaming for a while now.

This aligns with Microsoft’s recent emphasis on cloud gaming and platform-agnostic experiences. They’ve previously highlighted that players don’t necessarily need an Xbox console to enjoy Xbox titles, with many new releases finding their way onto PC as well. The Verge’s report cites sources claiming that Microsoft has internally decided to adjust its game promotion and release focus, potentially de-emphasizing the Xbox console itself.

This move could be a strategic shift towards a subscription-based model. The report mentions Microsoft’s efforts in promoting Game Pass subscriptions, which offer access to a library of games at a discounted price, particularly for new users. By focusing on cloud gaming and subscriptions, Microsoft might be aiming to reach a wider audience who wouldn’t necessarily purchase a dedicated console.

However, it’s important to note that this is just a report, and Microsoft hasn’t officially confirmed any plans to discontinue Xbox console sales in the EMEA market. We’ll have to wait for further announcements from Microsoft to know for sure about their future strategy in the region.

(Via)

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Gamers will have a field day with this one. Microsoft has partnered with Amazon to bring Xbox Game Pass Ultimate cloud gaming to Fire TV Sticks in over 25 countries and regions. This means you can now play a vast library of games directly on your TV without needing an Xbox console.

The service is currently only supported on the latest Fire TV Stick models

Currently, the service is only supported on the latest Fire TV Stick models: the Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2023) and the Fire TV Stick 4K (2023). These devices are priced at US$59.99 (approximately RMB 437) and US$49.99 (approximately RMB 364) respectively.

With Xbox Game Pass Ultimate cloud gaming, you can access hundreds of titles, including popular franchises like Fallout. Stream the latest installments like Fallout 76 and Fallout 4, and then catch up on the live-action Fallout series that premiered on Prime Video in April. Beyond Fallout, the library boasts a variety of acclaimed games, including Hellblade 2: Senua’s Saga, Starfield, and Forza Horizon 5.

(Via)

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Microsoft continues to expand the Xbox Game Pass library. Recently, the platform has been in the spotlight for adding games like Madden NFL 24, Bluey, and Warhammer 40K to the service. The latest Xbox Game Pass update has once again thrilled gamers by unveiling an exciting lineup of new titles for May 2024.

Xbox Game Pass May Wave 2 Unlocks New Titles!

Microsoft has unveiled a new lineup of games coming to Xbox Game Pass. This wave includes a variety of titles for console, PC, and cloud users. Here’s an overview of the upcoming additions:

• Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons (May 14): Available on Cloud, Console, and PC. This narrative-driven adventure game features unique dual-character controls as players embark on a quest to save their father.
• Chants of Sennaar (May 15): Available on Cloud, Console, and PC. An atmospheric puzzle game where players decode ancient languages and uncover the secrets of a divided tower.
• EA Sports NHL 24 (May 16): Available on Cloud via EA Play. The latest installment in the NHL series, offering enhanced gameplay and realistic graphics.
• Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II (May 21): Available on Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S. A highly anticipated sequel continuing Senua’s journey through a dark and psychological narrative.
• Humanity (May 30): Available on Cloud, Console, and PC. A thought-provoking puzzle game exploring human nature and societal complexities.

Xbox Game Pass subscription prices

It’s important to note that the prices listed above are for the US. Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass pricing may vary depending on your country.

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Xbox has teamed up with Boosteroid, a cloud gaming service, to make Xbox PC games available to more people. This partnership, announced last year, is now bringing a new set of PC games to Boosteroid, including titles like “Deathloop”, “Dishonored” series, “Gears 5”, “Ghostwire: Tokyo”, and “Pentiment”. This means gamers can play these games even on their smartphones and tablets.

To start playing these games on Boosteroid, players need to have the game through the Microsoft Store, which can be through a PC Game Pass, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, or a direct purchase. With a Boosteroid subscription, players log in, select the Xbox game they want to play from the Boosteroid library and start playing. This allows for playing on different devices, like PCs, smartphones, and tablets, and includes features like cross-play and cross-save with Xbox consoles and Windows PCs.

Boosteroid lets you play games on various devices without needing a powerful PC or lots of storage. It uses remote servers to run the games and streams them to your device. This makes it possible to play demanding games on simpler devices. To use Boosteroid, you need a good internet connection and a subscription.

The partnership with Boosteroid is part of Xbox’s larger effort to make gaming more accessible and to offer more choices on where and how to play games. Xbox is also working with other cloud gaming services (EE, NVIDIA GeForce NOW, Nware, and Ubitus) around the world to allow the streaming of games from Xbox Game Studios, Bethesda, and Activision Blizzard.

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The Xbox Game Pass library is set to receive a series of new games across various genres, catering to the diverse tastes of its subscribers. The lineup includes titles ranging from mythical adventures to intense survival horror and strategic simulations.

Effective immediately, subscribers can access “Anuchard,” where players are tasked with reviving a fallen kingdom using the magical Audros Bell, engaging in battles, and solving puzzles to reclaim its skyward glory.

On February 7, “Train Sim World 4” becomes available, offering a realistic train simulation experience with extensive customization options and detailed routes across the UK, Austria, and the USA. Following closely, “Madden NFL 24” launches on February 8, providing EA Play members early access and exclusive content for football simulation enthusiasts.

“Resident Evil 3,” scheduled for February 13, immerses players in the survival horror experience of Jill Valentine’s escape from Raccoon City and the terrifying Nemesis. “Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night,” rejoining the Game Pass on February 14, delivers a Metroidvania-style action RPG adventure.

For puzzle game fans, “A Little To The Left” arrives on February 15, turning daily messes into engaging puzzles, while “PlateUp!” combines cooking action with roguelite progression for an innovative culinary challenge. “Return to Grace,” launching on February 20, offers a first-person narrative adventure set in a visually striking ’60s retro sci-fi world.

Additionally, “MLB The Show 24” is announced to join the Game Pass on its release day, featuring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. on the Standard Edition cover and celebrating the Negro Leagues in the Deluxe Editions.

The update also includes new DLC and game updates such as “Sea of Thieves: Season 11,” along with Ultimate Perks for “Mighty Doom,” “F1 23,” “The Sims 4,” and “Smite.”

However, subscribers should note that “Galactic Civilizations III” and “Opus: Echo of Starsong” will be leaving the Game Pass on February 15, providing a final opportunity to play these titles.

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Xbox Game Pass, the popular gaming subscription service from Microsoft, is gearing up to offer an exciting range of games through the end of January and into early February 2024. This lineup is a diverse mix, promising something for every type of gamer. Starting January 16, players can dive into “Those Who Remain,” a psychological horror game that has garnered mixed reviews, including a 6/10 from IGN. It offers a blend of jump scares and a slightly rough-around-the-edges experience.

F1 2023 will be added to the game pass catalog soon enough

For those who fancy a mix of humor and heists, “Turnip Boy Robs a Bank” becomes available on January 18. This day-one title brings a quirky twist to the gaming world, appealing to fans of lighthearted, fun gameplay. Racing enthusiasts will be thrilled with the addition of “F1 23” to the Game Pass. Launching on January 18, this Codemasters’ title scored an impressive 8/10 from IGN. It’s touted for its comprehensive content and a new loot-based upgrade system, though the latter might not appeal to all.

“Pokémon with guns” – that’s “Palworld,” launching on January 19. This blend of cute creatures and action gameplay offers a unique experience to Game Pass subscribers.

For those who enjoy action-packed gaming, “Go Mecha Ball,” a twin-stick shooter, rolls out on January 25. Following this, “Brotato,” a top-down roguelite shooter where players control a gun-toting potato, releases on January 30.

The beginning of February brings “Persona 3 Reload,” a highly anticipated release available from February 2. This game is expected to be a hit, especially for fans of the series.

Lastly, “Anuchard” will be accessible from February 6, adding another layer of variety to the Game Pass offerings.

However, it’s not all additions; “Hitman: World of Assassination” is set to leave the Game Pass on January 31. This removal might disappoint some, but the new arrivals are sure to keep gamers engaged.

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(Via)

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The fierce competition between Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo is still going on in full throttle. Sony’s PS5 currently holds the lead, but Microsoft wields a strong advantage. While the Sony side is currently leading the race thanks to the PS5, Microsoft has a powerful weapon in its hands. The company has a service called Game Pass, which is like Netflix but for games. It gives you a vast library of games to play for a small monthly fee. Moreover this service is available on PC as well. Recently, Microsoft unveiled the upcoming January additions to the Game Pass library, and once you check out these games, you might find yourself eager to grab an Xbox.

Xbox Game Pass January Wave 1 2024 Title Announcement

Microsoft adds new games to the Xbox Game Pass library every month and sometimes removes certain games as well. For instance, we previously mentioned that GTA V would no longer be available on the service. However, don’t worry because Microsoft is committed to making up for this loss. In January, some fantastic games will be added to the Xbox Game Pass. Among these, the most notable ones are undoubtedly Resident Evil 2 and Assassin’s Creed Valhalla.

Week of January 1:

• Close to the Sun, January 3 (Cloud, Console, and PC)
• Hell Let Loose, January 4 (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)

Week of January 8:

• Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, January 9 (Cloud, Console, and PC)
• Figment, January 9 (Cloud, Console, and PC)
• Super Mega Baseball 4, January 11 (Cloud, Console, and PC)
• We Happy Few, January 11 (Cloud, Console, and PC)

Week of January 15:

• Resident Evil 2, January 16 (Cloud, Console, and PC)

It’s worth noting that new games are added to these every month. This way, Game Pass subscribers can always find new content to play. As both an Xbox user and a Game Pass subscriber, I can say that playing games becomes much more affordable this way.

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Xbox Game Pass is kicking off 2024 with a bang, introducing a lineup of new games that are sure to excite gamers worldwide. The most notable aspect of this is the introduction of day one releases, allowing subscribers to play brand-new games as soon as they’re launched. This approach mirrors the convenience we’ve seen in streaming services for TV shows and movies, now applied to the world of gaming.

The first game to be announced was ‘Turnip Boy Robs a Bank’

First up on January 15th is ‘Turnip Boy Robs a Bank‘, a game that cleverly combines elements from the classic ‘Legend of Zelda’ with a modern twist, offering a top-down 2D roguelite adventure. This nostalgic nod is a smart move, appealing to both long-time gamers and newbies.

Following closely on January 25th is ‘Go Mecha Ball’, another day one release. This game, featuring a blend of twin-stick shooter and roguelike elements, caters to fans of fast-paced, action-packed gaming. It’s an example of how Xbox Game Pass is diversifying its portfolio to include something for every type of gamer.

But the excitement for 2024 doesn’t stop with these two games. Titles like ‘Persona 3 Reload’, ‘Open Roads’, and ‘Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes’ are also on the horizon. Each of these games brings a unique flavor to the Game Pass collection, ensuring that subscribers have a wide variety of genres and gaming experiences to choose from.

The premium tier, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, is a reminder of the value that Xbox is offering. With a library of over 100 games, it’s an unparalleled deal in the gaming world. This variety and accessibility underscore Xbox’s commitment to providing a rich gaming experience that caters to a wide audience.

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(Via)

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Microsoft could be considering the idea of a new free Xbox Game Pass tier. A company executive has shared his thoughts regarding a new free tier for Xbox cloud game streaming that will support advertisements. So here are all the details.

Microsoft Xbox Game Pass May Stream with Ads

During the Wells Fargo TMT Summit, Tim Stuart, the Xbox Chief Financial Officer, told attendees that the company wants to bring Game Pass “to every screen that can play a game.” This will prove to be quite difficult, but a method that could help expand the service might be an ad supporting tier on game streaming. The change may help make the Game Pass a lot more accessible to gamers residing in emerging markets.

Stuart stated, “The vision I like to talk about is we have xCloud game streaming, so you can subscribe to Game Pass Ultimate and you can stream hundreds of games to really any endpoint that has a browser experience”. He adds that “For models like Africa, or India, Southeast Asia, maybe places that aren’t console-first, you can say, ‘hey, do you want to watch 30 seconds of an ad and then get two hours of game streaming?’

Ths would basically mean that Microsoft would run short ads that bring hours of gameplay to players in regions that do not have a high-end disposable income. Markets like Africa primarily game on smartphones and other mobile devices, so this feature will likely be more attractive in those regions. The American tech giant is rumored to be working on such a business model for the Xbox Game Pass, although, no official information has been revealed as of right now. So stick around for more as we will be providing updates when additional information is available regarding this matter.

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(Via)

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Xbox Game Pass continues to make waves, bringing fresh and exciting titles directly to its subscribers. Among the latest additions, “Turnip Boy Robs a Bank” has grabbed attention as the inaugural day one release for Xbox Game Pass in January 2024. This quirky game is set to join the service on January 18, bringing a unique blend of humor and action.

The game’s humor and character design are the standout

“Turnip Boy Robs a Bank” isn’t just another game; it’s a comedic adventure that turns the ordinary on its head. Players step into the shoes of the mischievous Turnip Boy, navigating a world where food items come to life. With its top-down 2D gameplay and roguelite mechanics, the game offers a refreshing twist, reminiscent of the iconic “Legend of Zelda” series. But it’s not just about the gameplay; the game’s humor and unconventional characters set it apart, promising a lighthearted escape from the usual gaming narratives.

January 2024 may mark the debut of “Turnip Boy Robs a Bank” on Xbox Game Pass, but it’s just the beginning of an exciting year. Other notable releases include “Persona 3 Reload” on February 2 and “Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes” and “Manor Lords” in April. These titles, along with “Turnip Boy,” showcase the diverse range of games that Xbox Game Pass offers, catering to a wide array of gaming preferences.

For those new to the Turnip Boy saga, the game is a sequel to the 2021 indie hit “Turnip Boy Commits Tax Evasion.” While the original game received mixed reviews, it was praised for its humor and engaging gameplay. “Turnip Boy Robs a Bank” aims to build on this foundation, offering an experience that is both familiar to fans and inviting to newcomers.

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, the premium tier of the service, continues to be a game-changer in the gaming world. Offering over 100 titles, it provides an unmatched value for gamers. As “Turnip Boy Robs a Bank” joins this impressive lineup, Xbox Game Pass subscribers have yet another reason to dive into this ever-growing gaming universe. Whether you’re a fan of whimsical adventures or just looking for something new to play, January 18, 2024, is a date to mark on your calendar.

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(Via)

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No frills, just thrills – Xbox Game Pass is serving up a December feast of gaming goodness. Whether you’re into post-apocalyptic survival or sandbox chaos, here’s your guide to what’s hot on Game Pass this month.

Xbox Game Pass: December Extravaganza

Remnant: From the Ashes returns, setting the stage for an action-packed December on Xbox Game Pass. Survive a post-apocalyptic nightmare, either solo or with friends. But that’s just the beginning.

The Sequel Saga: Remnant II

Dive deeper into the abyss with Remnant II. New deadly creatures and god-like bosses await across terrifying worlds. It’s survival at its finest, and you’re at the helm.

Upcoming Adventures: Prepare for a Gaming Odyssey!

1. Spirit of the North (December 1): Embark on a journey inspired by Icelandic landscapes. Solve puzzles guided by the Guardian of the Northern Lights and uncover the secrets of a fallen civilization.
2. SteamWorld Build (December 1): On day one, dive into this survival challenge. Excavate spacefaring tech, ensuring the survival of your community in a dying world.
3. Clone Drone in the Danger Zone (December 5): Slice and dice in this robot gladiator arena. Lose a limb, survive trials, and take on up to 15 players or team up for co-op.
4. Rise of the Tomb Raider (December 5): Join Lara Croft on her first tomb raiding expedition. High-octane action awaits in beautifully hostile environments.
5. While the Iron’s Hot (December 5): Step into the boots of a journeyman blacksmith. Forge your destiny with wits and crafting moxie on the mysterious isle of Ellian.
6. World War Z: Aftermath (December 5): Face swarms of zombies in this co-op third-person shooter. Fast-paced gameplay and new storylines based on the Paramount Pictures film.
7. Goat Simulator 3 (December 7): Pilgor’s back! Experience a totally realistic sandbox farmyard with a chaos-loving goat.
8. Against the Storm (December 8): Rebuild civilization in this dark fantasy city builder, overcoming apocalyptic rains with a diverse group of creatures.
9. Tin Hearts (December 12): Solve Lemmings-like puzzles and uncover the emotional story of genius inventor Albert Butterworth.
10. Far Cry 6 (December 14): Dive into Yara, a tropical paradise frozen in time. Join the revolution and liberate the nation in this open-world first-person action adventure.

Game Pass Core Update (December 6):

To our Core members, rejoice! Expect updates 2-3 times a year. New additions include:

1. Chivalry 2 (December 6): A multiplayer, first-person slasher inspired by epic medieval battles.
2. Totally Reliable Delivery Service (December 6): Buckle up and deliver with friends in an interactive sandbox world.

DLC and Game Updates: Keeping it Fresh!

1. Teamfight Tactics: Remix Rumble: Recruit champions from Riot Music groups and build the ultimate band with new portals and augments.
2. Fallout 76: Atlantic City – Boardwalk Paradise (December 5): Face overgrown threats in Atlantic City with new missions, factions, and casino-themed rewards.

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Perks: Extra Goodies!

1. KartRider: Drift – Lucci Loot Pack: Claim 14,000 Lucci for your KartRider journey.
2. 3 Months of Discord Nitro: Enjoy enhanced Discord perks for three months.

Farewell (December 15): Save Up to 20%!

While the following games bid farewell on December 15, players can save up to 20% to keep these titles in their library and continue the gaming journey.

• Chained Echoes (Cloud, Console, and PC)
• Opus Magnum (PC)
• Potion Craft: Alchemist Simulator (Cloud, Console, and PC)
• Rubber Bandits (Cloud, Console, and PC)

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(Source)

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Microsoft has revealed the list of games that will be added to the Xbox Game Pass subscription service this month. In October 2023, the company will be bringing in a bunch of popular games like Gotham Knights, Forza Motorsport, and more. So here is everything you need to know.

Xbox Game Pass October 2023

For those unaware, the Xbox Game Pass is a subscription based platform, which basically allows gamers to play a bunch of games for a monthly subscription fee. So rather than outright buying games, you just pay a smaller fee to gain access to a vast number of titles. Microsoft is constantly updating the games library, adding and removing titles every month. Now, it will soon offer Xbox Game Pass subscribers notable titles like Gotham Knights (October 3), Warhammer 40,000: Darktide (October 4), and Forza Motorsport (October 10).

These are the highlights of the October games list. Alongside these games, the company will also launch other titles like:

• NHL 24 (10 hour free trial) – October 3
• The Lamplighters League – October 3
• Cities: Skylines 2 – October 24
• Mineko’s Night Market – October 26
• Headbangers Rhythm Royale – October 31
• Jusant – October 31

Keep in mind that some of these games will be available on the Microsoft Xbox Game Pass platform for a limited period of time and might be rotated out for a fresh batch of titles in the coming months.

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As of September 14, Xbox Live Gold is officially history, making way for Xbox Game Pass Core. The new offering sets itself apart from its predecessor by featuring a rotating library of 36 games, as opposed to letting players claim permanent titles each month. While the change sounds promising, the initial list of games may not be thrilling enough for hardcore Xbox fans.

On the brighter side, Game Pass Core offers a lot of titles, from the classic, adrenaline-pumping “Doom Eternal” to “Stardew Valley.” With an annual subscription of just $60, it certainly offers value for money, especially for players new to these titles. But the flip side is the three- to six-month waiting period for any update in the list, raising questions about its long-term appeal. Xbox is definitely playing it smart with this one.

Xbox Game Pass Core library:

• Among Us
• Astroneer
• Celeste
• Dead Cells
• Descenders
• Dishonored 2
• Doom Eternal Standard Edition
• Fable Anniversary
• Fallout 4
• Fallout 76
• Firewatch
• Forza Horizon 4 Standard Edition
• Gang Beasts
• Gears 5 Game of the Year Edition
• Golf with your Friends
• Grounded
• Halo 5: Guardians
• Halo Wars 2
• Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice
• Human Fall Flat
• Inside
• Limbo
• Ori & the Will of the Wisps
• Overcooked! 2
• Payday 2: Crimewave Edition
• Powerwash Simulator
• Psychonauts 2
• Slay the Spire
• Spiritfarer: Farewell Edition
• Stardew Valley
• State of Decay 2: Juggernaut Edition
• Superliminal
• The Elder Scrolls Online
• Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge
• Unpacking
• Vampire Survivors

Then there’s another ‘catch.’ Game Pass Core will be essential for multiplayer gaming. Simply put, if you want some squad action in Call of Duty or other multiplayer games, you’re bound to this service. While this might seem like a reasonable deal for newcomers, veterans of the Xbox community might feel somewhat unhappy with this decision.

Is this switch a fresh start or a step back? While the rotating list adds a twist of surprise, the relatively stagnant lineup may not be appealing to some players. Microsoft has this big opportunity to reevaluate and refresh the list more frequently, thus keeping the excitement alive. In its current form, however, Game Pass Core seems like a mixed bag—a convenient yet not a special change in the Xbox ecosystem.

Bottom line? Xbox Game Pass Core has its merits for sure, but whether it’s the next big thing in gaming is definitely debatable. As the platform evolves slowly, Microsoft should take community feedback seriously if they want to make this a long-term success.

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Do you love playing games but don’t want to spend a fortune? If so, Microsoft has a service for you called Game Pass. It’s like Netflix for games, giving you unlimited access to a huge library of titles on your Xbox or PC for a monthly fee. Moreover, Microsoft has made it easier for people in many countries to access the service by offering local pricing or at least it used to. Sadly, starting today, the cost of Game Pass has increased in many countries. Here are the details…

Game Pass Prices Increase in Many Countries: Is It Still Worth It?

A while ago, we reported that Microsoft was going to raise the prices for Game Pass in some countries where it operates with local pricing. We even proposed a solution to ensure peace of mind for the next three years with an article titled “How to Get a 36-Month Subscription for Less Than $65“. However, the day we all feared has come, and Microsoft has made a significant increase in prices.

Prices have increased in all the countries listed below. The price of PC Game Pass remained stable in some countries, but not in Turkey. Starting next month, Microsoft will raise the price of the Xbox Series X console in most countries except the US, Japan, Chile, Brazil, and Colombia. On August 1, the Xbox Series X will cost £479.99 in the UK, €549.99 in most European markets, $649.99 in Canada, and $799.99 in Australia.

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Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo are all competing for gamers’ attention. Sony is currently ahead with the PS5, but Microsoft is trying to close the gap. One of Microsoft’s biggest weapons is Game Pass, a service that lets you play a wide variety of games for a monthly fee. Usually, Game Pass costs $10/month, but you can now get a 36-month subscription for less than $70. Here are the details…

How to Get a 36-Month Game Pass Ultimate for Cheap

Microsoft offers three versions of Game Pass: one for PC users, one for Xbox owners, and Game Pass Ultimate, which combines both. The prices for these plans vary depending on the country, as companies often adjust their prices to reflect local economic conditions. This can create loopholes that people living in other countries can take advantage of. For example, Game Pass Ultimate is only $14.99/month in the US, but it’s only $1,74/month in Turkey. And yes, you can also buy a 36-month subscription at this price.

Important: Xbox has recently increased prices in some countries where it has local pricing. You have until July 6th to purchase a Game Pass at the current price. Here are the steps you can take to save money on Game Pass:

Method One

• Get a VPN and set your location to Turkey.
• Get a prepaid bank card linked to establishments in Turkey.
• Create a new Microsoft account.

1. Set your location to Turkey using a VPN. This will make it look like you’re in Turkey, so you can get the local price for Game Pass.
2. Create a new Microsoft account. You can’t use your existing account, however it will be linked to your current location, and you need to change it.
3. Get a prepaid bank card linked to establishments in Turkey. You can find these online, or you can ask a friend in Turkey to help you.

Note: We can’t recommend any specific prepaid bank, but there are many reputable institutions in Turkey where you can open an account online. Just do your research carefully before you choose one.

Once you’ve completed the steps above, you can start your subscription for 44.99 TL by clicking “Join” on the page that appears when you click here. However, that’s not the end of it. You’ll need to click “Extend Subscription” on the same page to continue your subscription. Unfortunately, Microsoft Turkey only allows you to purchase more than one-month subscriptions at once. This means you’ll need to repeat the process. Additionally, the extension option may disappear from time to time. If this happens, you’ll need to turn off the auto-renewal option by clicking here.

Method Two

If you don’t want to go through all the steps mentioned above, you can buy a Game Pass Ultimate gift card from an e-commerce site in Turkey. You can use a VPN to create a Turkish account and redeem the code to get a 36-month subscription. However, the prices in Turkey have increased, so this option may be more expensive. You can also do the same thing for a standard Game Pass subscription, but you can only extend your subscription for 12 months with this version.

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Technology giant Microsoft has announced that the company will be increasing the pricing of its latest gaming console Xbox Series X as well as its gaming subscription service Xbox Game Pass.

The Xbox Series X will increase its pricing by $50, from $499 to $549, but the Xbox Series S pricing remains the same in all markets. The company has recently introduced a new black model of Xbox Series S with 1TB storage for $349.

Along with the increase in pricing for the new generation of gaming consoles from Microsoft, the Redmond-based tech company is also increasing the price of the Xbox Game Pass from $10 per month to $12 per month for the standard plan while the price of the Ultimate plan will rise from $15 per month to $18 per month.

Commenting about this, the company has said that the price increase is a necessary step to continue investment in the “best gaming experiences.” Further, it adds that the company would be offering several ways for customers to save money on Xbox Game Pass, including a yearly subscription option and a family plan.

The price change will go into effect from 6th July for new customers, but those who are already monthly subscribers won’t be impacted by the change until 13th August. Those who are on the yearly subscription of Xbox Game Pass will continue to use the service without any impact until they renew the subscription.

This development isn’t surprising given that the company was expected to increase pricing for the Xbox lineup as Sony did the same with its PlayStation 5 last year.

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The Xbox Game Pass will soon be bringing some of its games to the Nvidia GeForce Now service for the PC. Microsoft is offering these as a part of its new expansion which will include Xbox Game Pass titles on the cloud gaming service.

Xbox Game Pass will soon share games with Nvidia GeForce Now

Microsoft recently signed a new deal with Team Green, which will bring select games from the PC version of Xbox Game pass to GeForce Now. These will offered alongside games that users have purchased through Steam, Epic Games Store, and Ubisoft Connect as well. The news is interesting considering Microsoft also offers its very own cloud gaming service called xCloud. Although, this only works with a small number of devices.

Unfortunately, the entire Xbox Game Pass library isn’t making its way to the GeForce Now service. Rather, select titles that have yet to be revealed will be offered. Notably, this announcement also arrives mere days after Microsoft added in a couple of new in its Xbox Game Pass, which included the likes of Amnesia: The Bunker.

As per an official statement, “Today we shared that Game Pass members will soon be able to stream select PC games from the library through Nvidia GeForce NOW. This will enable the PC Game Pass catalog to be played on any device that GeForce NOW streams to, like low spec PCs, Macs, Chromebooks, mobile devices, TVs, and more, and we’ll be rolling this out in the months ahead.”

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Microsoft is gearing up to bring a bunch of new games in its Xbox Game Pass. The company plans to add a number of new exciting titles in the game pass over the course of this month. So let’s have a look.

Microsoft brings new games to Xbox Game Pass

The American tech giant is set to bring in eight new games on its vast library of video games on the Xbox Game Pass. These games will be added within the first half of this month. Just today (1st June 2023), the brand has brought in two titles in the game pass. Back on May 30, the company brought in Chicory: A Colorful Tale and Farworld Pioneers. And now, the Xbox Game Pass will offer Car Mechanic Simulator 2021, Slayers X: Terminal Aftermath: Vengeance of the Slayer, and The Big Con.

Furthermore, Microsoft will add the Amnesia: The Bunker and the Hypnospace Outlaw on June 6. Similarly, the Rune Factory 4 Special and Stacking will be brought onto the platform o June 8. Following this, Dordogne will be added to Xbox Game Pass on June 13. On the other hand, titles Bridge Constructor Portal, Chorus, Maneater, Mortal Shell, Serious Sam 4, and Total War: Three Kingdoms will be leaving the Game Pass on June 15. So over the next couple of weeks, there are plenty of fun titles are being added that gamers should definitely check out.

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The fierce competition between Xbox and PlayStation continues unabated. After lagging behind its rivals in the eighth-generation consoles, Microsoft has made a comeback in the ninth generation with successful products. However, the company aims to stand out more with its services and offerings rather than just hardware. One of the most interesting services among these is Game Pass. Not content with limiting this service to just gaming consoles, Microsoft launched what could be described as the “Netflix of games” for PCs as well. Now, Xbox PC Game Pass expands to 40 new countries, nearly doubling its global availability. Here are the details…

Xbox PC Game Pass Expands to 40 New Countries

Xbox has announced the expansion of its PC Game Pass service to 40 additional countries, taking the total number of countries covered to 86. This significant expansion primarily focuses on regions in Europe, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), and Central and South America. The move comes after Xbox began testing the PC Game Pass in these new territories back in February 2023.

To celebrate the expansion, Xbox is offering a limited-time special welcome offer for new users, with pricing varying by territory. Furthermore, members of the Xbox Insider Program in these new regions will receive two months of PC Game Pass for free. This ensures that new users will have the same suite of benefits as existing PC Game Pass subscribers, such as access to Xbox Game Studios releases on day one, Bethesda’s back catalog, an EA Play membership, and exclusive content in Riot Games’ titles.

The cloud gaming service offered by PC Game Pass enables players to access games on less powerful hardware, reducing the upfront costs associated with playing PC games. The newly added territories that can now fully access PC Game Pass include Albania, Algeria, Bahrain, Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Estonia, Georgia, Guatemala, Honduras, Iceland, Kuwait, Latvia, Libya, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Moldova, Montenegro, Morocco, Nicaragua, North Macedonia, Oman, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Qatar, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia, Tunisia, Ukraine, and Uruguay.

This expansion reaffirms Xbox’s commitment to broadening its global reach and making gaming more accessible to players worldwide. With the addition of these 40 new countries, the gaming community can expect an even more diverse and rich experience on the Xbox PC Game Pass platform.

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A new report has revealed that Sony is apparently not worried about the Xbox Game Pass from Microsoft. The company reportedly doesn’t even view the Xbox Game Pass as competition in the market.

According to sources close to the matter, Jim Ryan, the CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment, has expressed views that hint at the company not viewing the Xbox Game Pass as a rival. On the other hand, the Japanese tech giant has implied concern over Microsoft’s recent acquisition of the Activision Blizzard gaming studio. As per one source, the senior executive has expressed his views during an employee Q&A session that was held earlier this month where Ryan talked about market competition.

When asked about the Xbox Game Pass, Jim Ryan reportedly stated that “When we consider Game Pass, it seems to be getting lower [Game Pass numbers]. When we consider Game Pass, we’ve sold more PS5’s in two years than they have gathered subscribers and they’ve been doing that for 6-7 years.” He further added that “We’re just shy of 50 million subscribers and they are in the low 20s, but there’s more work to do to grow that number.”

Interestingly enough, Ryan’s supposed internal statement seems slightly contradicting considering the company is battling Microsoft’s proposed plans on acquiring Activision Blizzard, which is a known name in the gaming industry. The Sony official had told Reuters that the move is “bad for competition, bad for the gaming industry, and bad for gamers themselves” despite Microsoft claiming that “This deal will benefit gamers, developers, and the industry as we seek to bring more games to more people.”

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Tech giants Microsoft and Samsung have always had a close relationship as they have previously offered multiple features exclusive to each other’s operating systems. One good example would be that the Galaxy devices are the only smartphones other that Microsoft Surface Duo devices capable of opening mobile apps on Windows using the My Phone app.

Now, the two brand’s collaboration is about to expand to Samsung’s smart TVs as Microsoft has announced that some of the upcoming Samsung TVs bring along the Xbox App and Game Pass. The new features will be included in the Samsung Gaming Hub, which will be the first Smart TV platform to include the Xbox app on Smart TVs.

The brand has revealed that the TVs launching with Xbox App and Game Pass will be the Neo QLED 8K, Neo QLED 4K, QLEDs, and 2022 Smart Monitor Series. This new feature will essentially make these TVs into gaming machines as they will get access to cloud gaming via the Xbox App and will be able to stream over 100 high-quality games like Halo Infinite and Forza Horizon 5. This will also allow users to play new games released by Xbox Game Studios on Day one.

But if you don’t plan on buying a new Samsung television, don’t worry, because Microsoft is also working on a dongle device codenamed “Keystone,” which will enable users to stream Xbox Game pass games directly to their televisions without the need for any additional hardware other than the Keystone dongle.

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Back in 2019, Microsoft launched the “Xbox Cloud Gaming” beta which later got integrated into the Xbox Game Pass.

Currently, the service is offered with the “Ultimate” tier of the Game Pass. However, reports suggest that the company is working on making it more accessible. Going by a recent form of Windows Central, Microsoft is working on a game streaming dongle that is currently going through the testing phase.

The device which is codenamed “Keystone” might run on a simplified version of  Windows or Xbox OS. The device will pretty much work like a streaming dongle like an Amazon Fire TV Stick and will be a plug-and-play solution capable of working on both TVs and monitors.

XBOX KEYSTONE pic.twitter.com/warAwisfKh

— Tero Alhonen (@teroalhonen) March 9, 2022

Other than providing the Xbox Cloud Gaming service, it is also expected to be capable of working as a media streaming device that lets you stream video, install apps, play music, etc on your tv. This will likely make it a one-stop solution for both gaming and media consumption needs.

In a statement to Windows Central, a Microsoft official has stated that the device dubbed “Keystone” needs more time to prepare before going public, so it is likely not launching anytime soon. However, we will keep an eye on the situation and report any new developments, so stay tuned.

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Microsoft has offered some exciting perks with their game pass in India like users getting 8 months of membership for just Rs. 699 with their initial purchase of the game pass. And now, the company has made its intentions clear to aggressively target the Indian market as it has now slashed the prices of its  Xbox Game Pass, PC Game Pass, and Xbox Live Gold.

The company’s new game pass plans offer a 28% discount across all their various subscriptions for Indian players. The company will start to notify its users about the price cut from March 21 and the new plans would be applicable from April 2022. Users can visit the official website to buy a subscription. You can check out the complete list of the new prices of the game pass below.

For players who own a PC or an Xbox console, purchasing a PC Game Pass or a Console Game Pass will give them access to the latest Xbox games on day one of release. Other than that, players can also play any game that has previously been released on the platform like Halo Infinite, Sea of Thieves, Forza Horizon 5, Rainbox Six Siege, and many more. If you own both the Xbox console and a PC, you can purchase the Game Pass ultimate, which will give you access to the game pass on both PC and console.

Microsoft also commented on the recent price cuts stating “We regularly evaluate the price of Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Live Gold at a local level to best serve customers in each country. These price adjustments were informed and based on local market conditions in each country. This is simply a continuation of the price adjustments we made in select countries late last year.”

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Today, Microsoft revealed key details about Xbox and its gaming service as a whole. Top among the info is that it is working on game streaming devices and on bringing Xbox Game Pass to smart TVs.

In the press release, Xbox (read Microsoft) announced that Game Pass is coming to more screens in a number of ways. It confirmed it is working with global TV manufacturers to put the Xbox experience on smart TVs. This way, all users need is a controller.

Xbox also confirmed it is building its own streaming devices for cloud gaming so as to reach more users on any TV or monitor without needing a console. From the phrasing, we can deduce this means that these devices will provide the Xbox experience by connecting to the video input port of the display. Another thing to note is the word “devices” which means there will be more than one, possibly with different form factors.

The gaming service will also be launching in more countries such as Australia, Brazil, Mexico, and Japan later this year and Xbox also plans to introduce new subscription plans so more people can experience the service. Game Pass users will also notice improvements in load times and frame rates as Xbox is almost done updating its data centers across the globe with the Xbox Series X.

Later this year, Xbox will will also add cloud gaming to the Xbox app on PC which will bring new experiences including the ability to try a game before downloading it. However, in a few weeks cloud gaming on the browser will be available to all game Pass Ultimate subscribers. Users will be able to play games on Chrome, Edge, and Safari.

Game Pass will also get new games frequently. Xbox says that its goal is to release at least one new first party game into Game Pass every quarter. These games will include shooters, strategy, adventures, and more. Xbox will announce some of these new titles on Sunday, June 13 during the Xbox and Bethesda Games showcase.

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Microsoft has recorded a significant increase in the number of subscribers for its Xbox Game Pass service. The tech giant revealed in its second-quarter financial results that its subscribers now number 18 million – an increase of 3 million from the previous quarter.

The service which starts at $9.99 competes with other services such as NVIDIA’S GeForce Now and Google’s Stadia. Game Pass has over 100 games that users can download and play on their console for the period their subscription is active. They can also decide to buy the games (at a discount price) if they want and continue to play even if their subscription has expired. Games not bought are no longer playable once the subscription expires.

Microsoft has acquired a number of game studios in a bid to increase its game library. The biggest of them is Zenimax Media, which is the parent company of Bethesda Softworks, the game publisher behind The Elder Scrolls, Doom, and Fallout.

Xbox Game Pass is not the only area where Microsoft has recorded growth. The company said it recorded quarterly revenue of $43.1 billion and a net income of $15.5 billion, an increase of 17 percent and 33 percent respectively.

The new Xbox consoles – the Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X – which launched last quarter and even way into the quarter are said to be the most successful in the company’s history. CEO Satya Nadella is quoted to have said that they sold the most devices ever in a launch month.

According to The Verge, Microsoft’s CFO, Amy Hood, said they expect demand to be significant for the new quarter, however, supply will still be limited. Both consoles are currently listed as out of stock on Microsoft’s own site and at partner stores.

Microsoft’s Surface business has also recorded an increase in revenue of 3% and is now worth $2 billion, a first for it. It is expected to grow as the demand for laptops and PCs increases. Office 365 consumer subscribers have also increased by 28% to 47.5 million and Microsoft’s cloud business, Azure, recorded revenue growth of 50%.

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Microsoft’s cloud gaming service, xCloud is bundled with its Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription. With a price tag of $15, users will be able to stream from a library of games on their android phone or tablet wherever they are. The service is similar to Google’s Stadia.

The xCloud game streaming service is limited to just Android devices but Microsoft has announced that it will be coming to iOS and PCs next spring. An official statement published by the tech giant says that they plan to bring the service to more users next year. By expanding to PCs and iOS devices, they can add up to a billion devices to the service.

iOS users will be able to access the service via their mobile browser rather than an app, no thanks to Apple’s App Store restrictions. Instead of an app that acts as a catalog for what you want to stream, Apple wants Microsoft and other game streaming services to list each individual game as an app that users have to download before being able to stream it. Think of it as having to download an app for your favorite show or movie before you can stream it. So 10 shows or movies means 10 apps. Absurd, right?

So to avoid that, Microsoft will allow iOS users to access the service via the web browser just the way other game streaming services such as Stadia and GeForce Now provide their service on iOS.

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For PCs, the xCloud gaming service will be available via the Xbox app and browser. This means you will be able to jump into an Xbox game while you are at work or hanging out with friends as long as you have your PC with you and a great internet connection.

Game streaming eliminates the need for users to purchase expensive consoles. Users can practically play from anywhere, unlike a console which practically has you tethered to one spot – your home.

Microsoft says it is also expanding the service to new markets. The countries getting the service soon are Australia, Brazil, Japan, and Mexico. So if you live in any of these countries, you should be able to enjoy the service soon.

While Xbox’s head mentioned a few weeks ago that there are plans to bring Xbox games to smart TVs, the press statement didn’t say anything about it. Nevertheless, there are guides on the internet that tell you how you can sideload the Android app onto your Android TV. Do note that it may not turn out well as not only has the streaming service not been designed for TV’s yet, it is also currently capped at 720p resolution.

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