Source: Polygon
In a surprising move, Microsoft has quietly removed the popular $1 Xbox Game Pass trial option, just days before the highly anticipated release of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6. The decision means budget-conscious gamers hoping to access the upcoming blockbuster shooter at a reduced cost will now face fewer affordable options.
The $1 Game Pass deal previously allowed new and lapsed subscribers to access the service for 14 days at a minimal cost. With that option now gone, players looking to play Black Ops 6 at launch will need to pay the full retail price of $70 or subscribe to the more expensive Xbox Game Pass Ultimate tier, which costs $20 per month.
Xbox Game Pass has long been regarded as one of the best deals in gaming, providing access to a large library of premium titles across Xbox consoles, PCs, and mobile devices through cloud gaming. High-profile releases like Call of Duty were often included as part of the service, thanks to Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision. However, the removal of the $1 trial marks a significant change in Microsoft’s approach to Game Pass pricing, especially as it prepares for the release of Black Ops 6 on October 27.
This decision follows a series of unpopular adjustments to the service, including recent price hikes for certain Game Pass tiers. Despite these changes, Game Pass remains a popular option for gamers looking to access new and classic titles for a relatively low monthly fee. However, the elimination of the discounted trial option has left some fans disappointed.
Source: Activision Blizzard
The decision to remove the $1 trial has been met with swift criticism from players, many of whom have taken to social media to voice their frustration. Some have labeled the move a “cash grab” by Microsoft, especially considering the recent Game Pass price increases. Fans were hoping to take advantage of the deal to play Black Ops 6 without committing to a more expensive subscription tier.
However, not all reactions have been negative. Some observers note that the move may make business sense, as Microsoft could be aiming to maximize profits from the Call of Duty launch. The $1 deal would have only applied to the Standard Game Pass tier, which does not include day-one releases. Therefore, the removal of the trial may not have affected players’ ability to access Black Ops 6 unless they were already subscribed to the Ultimate tier.
According to reports from outlets like Polygon and GameSpot, this move appears to be part of Microsoft’s larger strategy to adjust its subscription model, especially following the company’s acquisition of Activision. As the gaming giant continues to expand its Game Pass library with blockbuster titles, Microsoft is likely looking for ways to drive higher revenue from its most popular games.
Source: Eurogamer
Experts suggest the removal of the $1 trial could push more players toward subscribing to the Ultimate tier, which guarantees access to day-one releases like Black Ops 6. Additionally, Microsoft has been testing different pricing strategies across various regions, which could signal more changes to Game Pass subscriptions in the future.
With the launch of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 just around the corner, Microsoft’s decision to scrap the $1 trial comes at a critical time. As players gear up for the game’s release, many will be watching to see how these changes impact Game Pass and whether it remains the go-to option for accessing new titles.
