Information which was possibly published prematurely on the website Windows Central and discovered by a Naver.com user suggests a big change in the realm of Xbox’s online services. If these indications hold true, Microsoft may retire its long-standing Xbox Live Gold and replace it with the newly named Xbox Game Pass Core. The rumors have emerged shortly after the recent announcement of the deal between Microsoft and Sony to retain Call of Duty on PlayStation.
Following a two-decade run, the iconic “Xbox Live” moniker might be on the verge of extinction, according to the leaked information. Starting from September 1, 2023, “Xbox Live Gold” might be rebranded to “Xbox Game Pass Core”.
As per the leak, the newly named service would continue to mandate a subscription for online multiplayer experiences and access to various perks, similar to its predecessor. The subscription rates for the “Core” service will reportedly remain unchanged, retaining the existing “Live Gold” price points of $9.99 per month or $59.99 per year.
Current subscribers of Live Gold should take note that if these changes come into effect, their subscriptions will be automatically converted to the Core service.
The “Core” service is slated to offer over 25 Game Pass games, which includes titles like Among Us, Descenders, Dishonored 2, DOOM Eternal, Fable Anniversary, Fallout 4, Fallout 76, Forza Horizon 4, Gears 5, Grounded, Halo 5: Guardians, Halo Wars 2, Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, Human Fall Flat, INSIDE, Ori and the Will of the Wisps, Psychonauts 2, State of Decay 2, and Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited. Microsoft is expected to extend this list in upcoming months.
However, the rumored changes aren’t all about additions. The Games with Gold feature, a key component of the current Xbox Live Gold offering, is proposed to cease from September 1st, 2023.
While there may be concerns about previously acquired free games, it has been indicated that games users previously secured with Live Gold will persist in their accounts. Additionally, the “Core” service subscribers will also be eligible for the purchase discounts previously enjoyed by Game Pass subscribers.
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