Game Pass May Be Losing Its Crown at Xbox, as Microsoft Reportedly Freezes New Third-Party Deals That Once Defined It
Key Points:
- Xbox CEO Asha Sharma is reportedly overhauling the division to restore profitability, which may include pausing funding for third-party Game Pass deals, according to industry insiders at a recent trade show.
- Fernando Rizo from Caboodle Games indicated that many advanced Game Pass deal discussions were halted abruptly, suggesting a temporary pause rather than a complete end to the service.
- This move is seen as part of a broader cost-cutting strategy by Sharma, potentially involving studio closures and layoffs, aimed at making Xbox smaller and more financially sustainable.
- The shift may signal a strategic change where Game Pass is no longer the central focus for Xbox, with Microsoft possibly prioritizing full-game sales alongside subscription offerings.
- The rumor is rated as 80% probable, based on strong insider evidence and multiple industry sources.