According to some industry insiders, it’s possible that we may see a new Game Pass subscription that combines Xbox and PC into one service. It’s no secret that Microsoft is currently exploring many options regarding its Xbox division, which range from new consoles to gaming handhelds and further development of its Xbox OS, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that it would also be looking into ways to increase profitability for its gaming subscription services after setting a record for the previous fiscal year.
Microsoft ruffled more than a few feathers within the gaming community when it raised its PC Game Pass prices by 40% last fall, with many stating they would be cancelling their subscriptions. It also confused some in August when it included some features of its Ultimate tier for standard subscribers. Now, according to The Verge & Windows Central (via TechPowerUp), it looks as if there could be a new merger on the horizon combining the Xbox and PC Game Pass services. Tom Warren (The Verge) has stated that testing for a free Xbox service is in the works, but Microsoft is also looking into other ways to expand its range of services that could include a merged Xbox/PC option.
“Specifically, Warren says that the firm might be planning to merge the PC Game Pass tier with another, such as Xbox Game Pass Premium; Windows Central can corroborate this with our own sources.”
– Brendon Lowry, Windows Central
This rumor could align with another regarding the Xbox PC hybrid console. It would make sense for Microsoft to further support its efforts to expand its Xbox OS on Windows-based devices, whether mobile, desktop, or console, by offering a service that encompasses them all. Clearly, regardless of what comes to pass, Microsoft is looking in all directions to expand its Xbox gaming division as it targets multiple deadlines ranging from game releases to hardware launches, software adoption, and now the revamping of its subscription options.