Microsoft is reportedly preparing major changes to Xbox Game Pass next year. The planned changes could affect how subscribers access games, online multiplayer, and cloud gaming.
According to information shared by ResetEra user Slayven, Microsoft is working on new Game Pass tiers that could include an ad-supported plan, a separate online multiplayer subscription, and a dedicated cloud streaming add-on.
The biggest change could be the removal of day-one game releases from Game Pass. The leak claims Microsoft could stop offering new games on the service on their release day between February and April 2027.
If this timeline is accurate, Fable, which is scheduled to launch on February 23, 2027, could be among the last major Xbox releases to join Game Pass on day one.
Microsoft would reportedly reduce the price of the affected Game Pass tier by around $3 per month after removing day-one releases. An ad-supported option could also be introduced for $12.99 per month, while an ad-free tier could cost $19.99 per month or $239.99 per year.
Cloud gaming could also become a separate service instead of being included with Game Pass. The leak claims Microsoft is planning a cloud streaming add-on priced at $5.99 for 25 hours of cloud gaming. A Family Pack could also be available for an additional $5.99 per month.
The reported changes would come alongside Microsoft’s planned restrictions on cloud gaming usage. Xbox has already announced changes to cloud gaming access, with monthly limits expected for some Game Pass users.
Microsoft is also reportedly preparing a cheaper subscription focused specifically on online multiplayer. According to the leak, this plan could cost $10.99 per month. Another option priced at $14.99 per month could combine online multiplayer with access to the Game Pass game library.
This would give Microsoft several different Game Pass options based on whether users want multiplayer, the game library, or cloud gaming.
Slayven had previously shared accurate information about Game Pass tier changes in late 2025. So, we can also trust this new leak.
Microsoft has not officially announced these new Game Pass plans. The pricing, features, and release timeline should therefore be treated as unconfirmed until the company provides more information.
If Microsoft does remove day-one releases from Game Pass, it would represent a major change to the service. Day-one access to Xbox first-party games has been one of the main reasons players subscribe to Game Pass, and removing it would significantly change what the service offers.
