Breaking News: Xbox Game Pass Friends and Family Preview Coming to an Exciting Close

Next month, Microsoft will be discontinuing the Xbox Game Pass Friends and Family preview plan. This plan is part of the Xbox Game Pass, a subscription service hosted by Microsoft that grants users access to a variety of video games on both Xbox consoles and PC. By paying a monthly fee, gamers can access a rotating library of Xbox games, ranging from AAA releases like Persona 5 Royal to indie titles like Dead Cells. The service is regularly updated, making it a great opportunity for Xbox and PC gamers to try out different games and franchises.

The Xbox Game Pass service offers several levels, each with its own perks and benefits. These may include Xbox Live Gold membership and exclusive discounts for members. Last year, a new level called the Xbox Game Pass Family and Friends Plan was introduced. This plan allowed one subscription to be shared among up to five gamers, all covered by a single fee. Initially, this tier was launched in a limited capacity as a preview before its official release. However, this preview period is about to come to an end.

A statement was issued to subscribers, announcing the conclusion of the Xbox Game Pass Friends and Family preview program on August 15, 2023. In appreciation for their participation, active members will receive an Xbox Game Pass offer, allowing them to continue gaming even after the preview ends. The statement also mentions that the publisher will use the insights gained during the preview period to develop a global offer.

Currently, the price for Xbox Game Pass is approximately $9.99 per month for both console and PC tiers. Based on the trial, it is anticipated that the price for Xbox Game Pass Friends and Family will be $20 per month in the United States, after converting to local currencies. Although this is a $5 increase, when divided among the five users sharing the subscription, it would amount to approximately $4 per user, according to this estimate.

There is currently no information available regarding the official worldwide launch of this new plan, as the preview is scheduled to end in August. Additionally, the price of the Xbox Game Pass service will be increasing this month, but the actual increase will not take effect until August, just a few days before the preview period ends. It remains to be seen whether the price of the new Xbox Game Pass plan will also be adjusted to reflect the increased price of the current plan.