In recent years, Xbox subscribers have mostly seen prices increase. Between consoles, accessories and especially Game Pass, the bill has gradually increased. But a change seems to be taking shape. Recently at the helm of Xbox, Asha Sharma wants to expand the brand’s audience. According to several sources, it would consider an in-depth review of the Game Pass economic model, with a seemingly simple idea: making the subscription more accessible.
Cheaper Game Pass, Xbox’s new ambition
During the Game Developers Conference, Asha Sharma increased her discussions with major players in the sector. The stated objective is clear: reach a wider audience and reduce barriers to entry. According to the information relayed, it particularly wants to “make future consoles and products like Game Pass more attractive to a wider audience”.
This ambition would involve “an overhaul of pricing models in order to offer cheaper subscriptions”. A strategic shift which comes after several years marked by successive increases, notably on the Game Pass Ultimate offer, now offered at around $30 per month.
More accessible subscriptions, but under what conditions?
Offering a cheaper Game Pass does not necessarily mean offering the same benefits. Behind this potential decline, several avenues are mentioned. Among them, the introduction of new formulas with limitations. Some could offer a reduced catalog, as is already the case with the Essential offer, or even integrate advertising.
This last option regularly comes up in discussions around the future of Game Pass. It would make it possible to compensate for a drop in prices, while maintaining income. In this context, a cheaper subscription could therefore imply compromises on the user experience.
A partnership with Netflix in the works?
Another avenue mentioned: bundled offers with other services. Xbox has already started discussions with Netflix. The CEO of the platform, Greg Peters, confirmed that he had met Asha Sharma several times, specifying that they had “discussed different ideas”. This type of partnership could give rise to combined subscriptions, combining video games and streaming. A strategy already adopted in other sectors, notably in telecommunications.
Xbox facing price and market pressure
This reflection takes place in a particular economic context. Prices for Xbox consoles today range from $400 to $800, while Game Pass represents a significant monthly cost. Faced with this situation, making the offer more accessible becomes a major challenge in attracting new players.
At the same time, Xbox must also reassure about its long-term vision. The appointment of Asha Sharma, from the world of artificial intelligence, raised questions. Since taking office, she has spoken more frequently to assert a clear direction: develop the Xbox ecosystem and attract more players, without calling into question the importance of video games.