Microsoft Hints at Game Pass Overhaul: Is Day-One Access About to Disappear?

Major Changes Expected for Xbox Game Pass Subscription Service

Xbox is reportedly planning significant adjustments to its Game Pass subscription service, including the elimination of several key benefits that have defined the service. This information comes from a leak by ResetEra user Slayven, who previously accurately predicted Microsoft’s plans to modify Game Pass pricing and tier structures in 2025.

According to Slayven’s latest post, a reorganization of Game Pass tiers and their names is forthcoming. The subscription price is expected to decrease slightly, with the caveat that access to new games upon their release—commonly known as day-one games—will be removed from all tiers.

Additionally, an ad-supported tier is believed to be on the way, and cloud streaming may be entirely eliminated from the Game Pass offering. These changes are reportedly slated to occur between February and April 2027.

Expected Changes to Xbox Game Pass:

• Introduction of three Game Pass tiers: one ad-supported and two without ads.
• The ad-supported tier will be priced at $13 per month; the ad-free tier will cost $20 (or $240 annually).
• A third tier with access to the existing Game Pass library and online multiplayer will be available for $15.
• Removal of day-one games from all tiers.
• Cloud streaming will be removed, with an optional $6 add-on for 25 hours of streaming playtime.
• A family plan option for an additional $6 per month.
• Online multiplayer access will still require a subscription, priced at $11.

Microsoft has not confirmed these specific changes but stated through a representative to Forbes reporter Paul Tassi that there are currently no planned alterations to Game Pass. “We regularly test different Game Pass offerings and look at what works best for players in different markets. We don’t have any changes to announce today or plans that have been finalized,” the statement noted.

Uncertainties remain regarding whether online multiplayer will be integrated into either of the primary tiers and the future of PC Game Pass, which has also been a topic of speculation. Slayven had previously predicted its removal in 2025, though that did not materialize.

In commenting on these developments, leaker NateTheHate supported Slayven’s insights, highlighting the credibility of the information source while acknowledging that timelines may shift.

Earlier this year, Microsoft reduced the prices for Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass but simultaneously removed Call of Duty from day-one availability. This pattern suggests potential additional changes are forthcoming, especially given the recent restrictive adjustments to Xbox cloud streaming and implementation of time caps based on Microsoft’s break-even point.

Xbox’s new CEO Asha Sharma has expressed an interest in providing innovative ways for players to access Xbox hardware and services. In prior remarks, she noted intentions to evolve Game Pass into a more adaptable system that would require time to refine and evaluate.

News Courtesy of Eurogamer