Microsoft is reportedly planning to introduce a free tier of its popular Xbox Game Pass service by 2024. The new tier would provide access to the Game Pass library of hundreds of games in exchange for watching advertisements.
Free ad-supported tier aims to expand the Xbox gaming ecosystem to wider audiences across the globe. It could attract gamers unable or unwilling to pay the monthly Game Pass subscription fee.
The move aligns with Microsoft’s vision to enable gaming access to players in developing markets like Africa and India.
Microsoft Xbox executives have hinted at experiments underway to test ad-supported gaming models. Code snippets related to “earned time” have been spotted that could unlock Game Pass game time by watching ads. The reception to these initial tests likely will shape the final free tier offering.
A free ad-supported Xbox Game Pass tier potentially allows many more gamers to access and try Xbox game titles. It could drive valuable player feedback and online community discussions around games.
The tier also expands Xbox cloud gaming to mobile device users who previously may have faced barriers to entry.
Microsoft has yet to confirm details around the Game Pass free tier, like regional availability and full capabilities.
However the stage is set for a major expansion of the Xbox platform in 2024, pending the outcomes of initial product experiments and market testing.