Ah, the Xbox Game Pass, that famous subscription service that gives gamers access to a catalog of more than 500 games on Xbox and PC. How does it work for developers or for Microsoft?
Phil Spencer, the head of Xbox, explains in an interview that the Game Pass is not only a means of distributing games, but also makes it possible to finance the creation of new content. Finally, the launch of Game Pass makes the game stand out across all platforms, according to Phil Spencer.
I also really like that these games are available on other platforms, which not all teams do, because then they can use the Game Pass community feature to sell more copies on Steam or Playstation.
He also claims that Xbox Game Pass will allow developers to take more risks and innovate while giving players more choice and variety.
Is Game Pass a risk mitigation option for developers?
Absolutely. I could call it a way for teams to innovate a little more outside of a safe zone because they have a guaranteed revenue stream from us. We have direct reports from teams saying, “We wouldn’t have done this if we didn’t know…”
Phil Spencer answers Tamoor Hussain’s question
Finally, Phil Spencer believes Xbox Game Pass is an opportunity for the video game industry to innovate and evolve. He takes the example of 33 immortals.
I think that’s a good thing for the industry, it’s a good thing when we have teams doing things like 33 player co-op raids in 33 Immortals.
