After public outcry, Microsoft will no longer push through with their planned price increase for the Xbox Live Gold subscription.
MICROSOFT REVERSES PLANS FOR XBOX LIVE GOLD PRICE HIKE
Microsoft announced last Friday that they will be doubling the price of the Xbox Live Gold subscription service for new users. However, they quickly reversed their decision when gamers voiced their discontent with the new pricing scheme. In the same blog post, Microsoft says,
“We messed up today and you were right to let us know. Connecting and playing with friends is a vital part of gaming and we failed to meet the expectations of players who count on it every day. As a result, we have decided not to change Xbox Live Gold pricing.”
The planned hike wouldn't have affected old subscribers. Those who are already subscribed for the service will still be able to renew their subscription for the price they used to enjoy when they signed up. Still, this didn't stop gamers from complaining. In case it pushed through, a yearly subscription will cost players $120, just a little less than the $180 subscription for the premium-level Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. Many gamers found the pricing to be unfair, hence the outcry.
MICROSOFT TAKES A STEP FURTHER, SUBSCRIPTION NO LONGER REQUIRED FOR FREE-TO-PLAY GAMES
To show their sincerity in their move, Microsoft took a step further. Instead of just reversing the price hike, Microsoft also decided to remove the Xbox Live Gold requirement in playing free-to-play games online. Indeed, this move will help gamers connect and play with friends. This is more important now than ever as the world continues to experience quarantines due to the global pandemic.
“We’re turning this moment into an opportunity to bring Xbox Live more in line with how we see the player at the center of their experience…” says Microsoft. “We are working hard to deliver this change as soon as possible in the coming months.”
Microsoft's Xbox Live Gold service unlocks multiplayer gameplay for online games played in the Xbox consoles. Members also enjoy exclusive discounts in the Microsoft store. Meanwhile, the premium Xbox Game Pass Ultimate takes things a step further. It contains the base Xbox Live Gold service, plus access to a rotating list of over 100 titles for both PC and consoles.
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