Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which gave players access to its entire library of games including cloud gaming for just $1, has been a popular offer since its introduction. However, the tech giant has now officially ended the promotion and this incredible offer is no longer available. The highly popular $1 Game Pass deal from Microsoft has reportedly been pulled in multiple countries, according to various media outlets over the weekend.
For several years, Microsoft has been providing the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate trial for new players at an affordable price of $1. Although there were some instances when the offer was unavailable in particular markets, it has been available for an extended period.
In a statement to The Verge, Microsoft has confirmed that it has ended its long-standing introductory offer for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass. As a result, new subscribers must pay the full monthly rate of $14.99 for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate or $9.99 for Game Pass on PC or console without a trial. While this move may disappoint some gamers, Microsoft has teased that new offers may be coming in the future.
It’s disappointing to see Microsoft discontinue the $1 Xbox Game Pass trial, but the company’s motives are understandable. Recent reports suggest that Xbox Game Pass has over 29 million subscribers, which could have led to the decision to end the offer, as Sony mentioned during the scrutiny into Microsoft’s purchase of Activision Blizzard. Additionally, Microsoft has been exploring a Friends and Family plan that could provide discounts on Game Pass subscriptions. This plan is currently being tested in some countries, with a monthly fee of €21.99 in Ireland.
We have signed a 10 year agreement with NVIDIA that will allow GeForce NOW players to stream Xbox PC games as well as Activision Blizzard PC titles, including COD, following the acquisition. We´re committed to bringing more games to more people – however they choose to play.
— Phil Spencer (@XboxP3) February 21, 2023
However, Microsoft has not revealed any details regarding what these “different marketing promotions” for new members will entail, leaving gamers in suspense. It remains to be seen whether Microsoft’s decision to end the $1 trial offer will impact the popularity of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which has become a staple for many gamers seeking access to a wide variety of games for a reasonable price.
To expand its reach, Microsoft has been actively making efforts to bring Xbox Game Pass to more gamers. One of its recent moves was to increase the availability of its PC Game Pass subscription by adding 40 new countries to its list. This means that the service is now available in 86 markets globally, including several new markets in Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. The move is aimed at attracting more subscribers to the service and building a larger user base.
Source: The Verge