Xbox Live Gold is coming to an end after nearly two decades, with the service slated to be withdrawn on September 14th.
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As a replacement, Microsoft is releasing Xbox Game Pass Core, a more economical option with online play features and a curated game selection.
Xbox Live, which debuted alongside the first Xbox in 2002, immediately established the industry standard for online console gaming. The service evolved, adding capabilities such as cross-game voice chat and messaging. Games with Gold was introduced in 2013, offering free monthly games to Xbox Live Gold subscribers.
Games with Gold will be phased out as Xbox Live Gold ends. Subject to specific circumstances, gamers will still have access to the titles they downloaded through the service.
In 2017, Microsoft introduced the Xbox Game Pass, which allowed players to access a wide library of downloaded games for a monthly charge. Now, Game Pass Core and Xbox Live Gold have merged to provide online multiplayer and a handpicked selection of 25 games.
On September 14th, existing Xbox Live Gold users will be automatically upgraded to Game Pass Core. While access to Games with Gold titles is still available, some conditions must be completed to continue playing Xbox One Games with Gold. Microsoft has also stated that additional games would be added to Game Pass Core throughout the year, as well as unique membership promotions and discounts.
Microsoft has released a selection of games that will be accessible on September 14th as part of the new service, with more titles expected to be added in the future. The original lineup consists of:
| Feature | Xbox Live Gold | Game Pass Core |
|---|---|---|
| Online Multiplayer | Included | Included |
| Games with Gold | Included (until Sept. 1) | Not Included |
| Access to Game Library | Limited | Included |
| Game Selection | Limited | Curated Selection |
| Price | $12.99/m | $9.99/m |
| Additional Benefits | Exclusive Deals | Exclusive Deals |
| New Game Additions | Limited | Regular Additions |
| Transition for Subscribers | Automatic Conversion | N/A |
| Access to Previous Downloads | Retained | Retained |
Xbox Live Gold is being phased out after an incredible 18-year run to make room for the launch of Xbox Game Pass Core.
Subscribers may expect more cheap options, a curated game selection, and continuous access to Games with Gold games as Microsoft restructures its gaming services. While the changeover carries with it new considerations and adjustments, the future presents exciting potential for Xbox users.
Game Pass Core costs $9.99 per month.
