FTC Calls New Xbox Game Pass a “Degraded Product”

FTC Calls New Xbox Game Pass a "Degraded Product"

As a long-time gamer and an ardent subscriber of Xbox Game Pass, I can’t help but feel disheartened by the recent changes Microsoft has announced. The excitement that once came with the prospect of being among the first to play new releases on Xbox Game Pass has now turned into frustration and disappointment.


As an avid Xbox fan, I was disappointed to hear about the upcoming changes to Xbox Game Pass. The announcements of price hikes and altered tier options have left many subscribers feeling frustrated and unhappy with the service. These modifications, in my perspective, don’t seem significantly improved from the previous versions.

As a long-time gamer and avid Xbox user, I have to admit I was taken aback by the recent changes to Xbox Game Pass. Up until now, I’ve been enjoying the benefits of Xbox Game Pass for consoles, which gave me access to a vast library of games for a very reasonable price. However, it seems that new members will no longer be able to sign up for this option, as it has been completely replaced by Xbox Game Pass Standard.

The FTC, along with many people, have expressed their displeasure towards the recent changes. In a filed document, the commission highlighted the price hikes and the termination of Xbox Game Pass for consoles as issues of concern. With memories of their past objections to Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard fresh in mind, the FTC essentially stated, “We warned you this might happen.”

The FTC announced that Microsoft will no longer offer its $10.99/month “Console Game Pass” subscription. Those using this service will need to pay 81% more to upgrade to “Game Pass Ultimate,” which may be a problem for some consumers. For those who can’t afford the increase, Microsoft is introducing a new, less expensive option, “Game Pass Standard,” priced at $14.99/month. However, this new tier comes with fewer benefits, including no longer having access to day-one game releases. The combination of price hikes and reduced features for existing users is the type of consumer harm the FTC has expressed concern about following the merger.

The FTC reiterated that the merger between Activision Blizzard and other companies has the signs of a dominant firm in the market, using Call of Duty as an example once again. The popular gaming franchise, including Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, is now exclusively available on the pricier Xbox Game Pass Ultimate plan for console users. This development aligns with the FTC’s concerns over access to day-one releases for major titles like Call of Duty.

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2024-07-19 19:39