Highlights
Xbox Game Pass Core is set to replace Xbox Live Gold, offering access to multiplayer features and a library of 25 Game Pass games.
Instead of receiving monthly free games, subscribers to Xbox Game Pass Core will now have new titles added to their library 2-3 times a year.
Starting September 14, Xbox Insiders in the Alpha and Alpha Skip-Ahead rings will have the chance to preview Xbox Game Pass Core, test the upcoming changes, and provide feedback before the complete transition.
Some Xbox users will soon have the opportunity to experience an exclusive preview of a new level of Xbox Game Pass. It's not Xbox Game Pass Platinum or any kind of prestigious tier, but it represents a significant advancement for Xbox as a whole. This new level is called Xbox Game Pass Core and will soon replace the long-standing Xbox Live Gold subscription. Xbox Insiders will soon have the chance to test it out.
Xbox Game Pass Core was introduced in mid-June as a "progression" of Xbox Live Gold. This new subscription will retain the key benefit of Xbox Live Gold, which is access to multiplayer features, but it will introduce something fresh by replacing the monthly free games. Subscribers will now have access to a library of 25 Game Pass games, with new titles added 2-3 times per year. On September 14, Xbox Live Gold will automatically transition into Xbox Game Pass Core without any changes to pricing.
Microsoft will be conducting a trial run of Xbox Game Pass Core through its Xbox Insiders program before the official launch. During the preview, subscribers will have access to a limited selection of games from the subscription library. In addition, they will still be able to enjoy the ongoing Games With Gold benefit. This preview period will run concurrently with the existing subscription, as Xbox prepares for the full transition.
The primary advantage of participating in the Xbox Game Pass Core preview is the availability of games. Currently, four titles will be unlocked for subscribers: Psychonauts 2, Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice, State of Decay 2, and Doom Eternal. It is uncertain if additional games will be included, but the complete library will only be accessible starting on September 14th.
Please keep in mind that the purpose of this preview is for Xbox Insiders to test the upcoming changes in Xbox Game Pass Core. While there are additional benefits, the main responsibility of Xbox Insiders is to ensure smooth functionality and provide valuable feedback. Xbox Live Gold subscribers in the Alpha and Alpha Skip-Ahead ring will also have the opportunity to access the preview.
The majority of the changes in Xbox Game Pass Core primarily focus on rebranding. As the Xbox team prioritizes the future of its platform, Xbox Game Pass continues to gain popularity and expand. In contrast, Xbox Live is no longer a central focus. Although it is disappointing to lose Games with Gold, the new tier of Game Pass offers appealing advantages. It is hoped that Xbox will ultimately enhance the value of the Xbox Game Pass Core library in the long term.