Katarzyna Petru
Microsoft is analysing the possibility of significantly expanding Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. According to unofficial information, the company is considering adding additional services, which have previously been paid separately, to the subscription. These include subscriptions related to the biggest brands in the Xbox portfolio. At this moment, it is still in the analysis phase, but the direction seems consistent with the company's previous strategy.
What services could be included in the package?
Specific names are emerging in speculations. These include subscriptions for World of Warcraft, access to Minecraft Realms, which are private worlds for friends, as well as add-ons like Fallout 1st for Fallout 76 or ESO Plus for The Elder Scrolls Online. Currently, each of these services requires a separate payment. Including them in Game Pass Ultimate would mean real savings for players who are already using several such subscriptions simultaneously.
The recent price hike for the highest tier of Game Pass has sparked mixed reactions. Some users have started to wonder whether the difference between the standard version and Ultimate is justified enough. Adding fully-fledged, previously paid services could completely change the perception of the subscription. Microsoft now has in its portfolio brands acquired along with Activision Blizzard and Bethesda, so integrating their subscriptions into one package seems like a logical business step.
Is it certain?
For now, we're only talking about unofficial reports. Microsoft has not confirmed plans to expand the package, and the project may never come to fruition. However, if the company decides to go ahead with such a move, Game Pass Ultimate could become one of the most comprehensive subscriptions in the gaming industry, combining games, premium services, and add-ons into one monthly package.
Microsoft is analysing the possibility of transforming Game Pass Ultimate into a true mega bundle. Including subscriptions like WoW or Minecraft Realms could justify a higher price and simplify life for gamers. However, we'll have to wait for official decisions.
Source: Digital Trends
