The evolution of Xbox Live Gold: How Xbox Game Pass Core transforms the gaming landscape

In a significant shift for Xbox players, Microsoft has announced the end of Xbox Live Gold after nearly two decades, making way for the introduction of Xbox Game Pass Core. Set to take effect on September 14, the new service offers a curated selection of games and online multiplayer capabilities, effectively merging the features of Xbox Live Gold and Xbox Game Pass. As a result, Games with Gold will also come to a close on September 1, although players will still retain access to previously downloaded games from the program.

Xbox Live Gold has played a pivotal role in console gaming since its launch in 2002, establishing itself as the standard for online play. With the introduction of Xbox Game Pass in 2017, Microsoft provided gamers with a comprehensive library of downloadable games for a monthly fee. Now, the two services are converging, with Xbox Game Pass Core offering access to 25 games and online multiplayer for $10 per month or $60 per year.

Existing Xbox Live Gold subscribers will automatically transition to Game Pass Core on September 14. Microsoft has unveiled an initial list of games that will be available through the new service, with additional titles expected to be added prior to the launch. Notable inclusions are popular titles such as Among Us, Dishonored 2, Fallout 4, Halo 5: Guardians, and Psychonauts 2.

However, the pricing structure of the new service has raised some eyebrows. With Xbox Game Pass on console costing only $1 more per month, it seems puzzling for players to opt for the limited Game Pass Core library. Sony’s PlayStation Plus Essential service, priced similarly, still offers monthly free games to subscribers, making Microsoft’s move an interesting one.