Xbox and Game Pass: What to Expect in 2024
The gaming world is buzzing with discussions about the state of Xbox and Game Pass in 2024. This year has been a rollercoaster for Microsoft's gaming brand. On one hand, Xbox released a slew of games across various platforms. On the other hand, Game Pass has become more expensive and complicated. While Xbox had a successful showcase, the company also faced significant layoffs, raising concerns among fans. Let's dive into the details of Xbox's 2024 journey.
The Impact of Activision and Bethesda
2024 marked a new era for Xbox as it fully integrated Activision Blizzard King and Bethesda into its operations. These acquisitions brought a strong lineup of games to Xbox, saving it from an otherwise quiet year. Notable releases included "Call of Duty: Black Ops 6," a Diablo 4 expansion, and Bethesda's "Indiana Jones and the Great Circle."
Despite these successes, the year was marred by layoffs. In January, Microsoft announced the layoff of around 1,900 employees across its gaming studios. This was followed by more cuts in May, including the closure of several Bethesda-owned studios. These actions raised eyebrows, especially since some of Xbox's biggest games this year came from these very companies.
The Game Pass Conundrum
Game Pass, once hailed as the best deal in gaming, saw significant changes in 2024. Xbox added numerous games to the service, including day-one launches like "Hellblade 2" and "Metal Slug Tactics." However, a price hike in July changed the landscape. The Game Pass Ultimate plan increased from $17 to $20, while the console-only plan was replaced by a more expensive tier without day-one releases.
- Game Pass Ultimate: $20/month
- New Game Pass Standard: $15/month
- No guaranteed day-one releases for Standard
These changes have made Game Pass a less attractive option for many gamers. The promise of day-one first-party titles was a major selling point, and its erosion has left fans frustrated.
The Uncertain Future of Xbox
As 2024 comes to an end, Xbox's future seems uncertain. Microsoft's focus on AI investments leaves Xbox in a precarious position. While the company has a vast array of studios and publishers, it struggles to support them, leading to closures and layoffs.
Game Pass, once a straightforward subscription, is now a costly and confusing service. As Microsoft seeks to grow its user base, the quality of the service may continue to decline. For those considering a new console, investing in an Xbox Series X/S feels like a gamble.
Looking Ahead to 2025
Despite the challenges, 2025 holds potential for Xbox. New games from Bethesda, Activision, and other studios are on the horizon. However, the cost of this growth has been high, with job cuts and price increases casting a shadow over the brand's future.
For gamers and fans, the question remains: How much more will Xbox sacrifice to maintain its position in the industry? Stay tuned to Streamers Visuals for the latest updates on game news and to explore designs like emotes, sub badges, and overlays.
