Following a change in leadership at Microsoft Gaming, new boss Asha Sharma has indicated that the company is re-evaluating its popular Game Pass service. Sharma, who replaced Phil Spencer in February, has reportedly stated in an internal memo that “Game Pass has become too expensive for players.” This suggests a potential shift in strategy to address player concerns about the cost of the subscription service.
This acknowledgment comes approximately six months after Microsoft last increased the prices for Game Pass. While a direct price reduction is not necessarily anticipated, Sharma’s mention of needing a “better value equation” could point towards other adjustments. Industry rumors have been circulating for some time about the possibility of new, ad-supported tiers for Game Pass, which could offer a more affordable option for budget-conscious gamers.
The question remains: would a cheaper, ad-supported version of Game Pass entice players back to the service? This sentiment from leadership signals a recognition of the current market and player sentiment regarding subscription costs.