Is Xbox Live Going Away?
In a surprise move, Microsoft has announced that it is discontinuing its Xbox Live Gold subscription service and replacing it with a new tier called Xbox Game Pass Core. This change is set to take effect from September 14, 2023. But what does this mean for Xbox Live users, and is Xbox Live going away for good?
What is Xbox Live Gold?
Xbox Live Gold is a subscription-based service that allows users to play online multiplayer games on their Xbox consoles. It was introduced in 2002 and has been a staple of the Xbox gaming experience ever since. For a monthly fee, users get access to online multiplayer gaming, free games, and exclusive discounts.
What is Xbox Game Pass Core?
Xbox Game Pass Core is a new subscription service that will replace Xbox Live Gold. It offers many of the same benefits, including online multiplayer gaming and exclusive discounts. However, it does not include the free games that were previously offered through Xbox Live Gold.
What are the key differences between Xbox Live Gold and Xbox Game Pass Core?
Here are the key differences between the two services:
| Feature | Xbox Live Gold | Xbox Game Pass Core |
|---|---|---|
| Free Games | Yes | No |
| Online Multiplayer | Yes | Yes |
| Exclusive Discounts | Yes | Yes |
| Price | $9.99/month | $9.99/month |
Why is Microsoft discontinuing Xbox Live Gold?
Microsoft has not given a specific reason for discontinuing Xbox Live Gold, but it is likely due to the changing gaming landscape. With the rise of free-to-play games and online multiplayer services like PlayStation Now, Microsoft may be looking to simplify its offerings and focus on its more popular services.
What happens to my Xbox Live Gold subscription?
If you have an active Xbox Live Gold subscription, you will be able to continue using it until the end of your subscription period. After that, you will need to switch to Xbox Game Pass Core if you want to continue playing online multiplayer games.
Will I still be able to play online multiplayer games on Xbox?
Yes, you will still be able to play online multiplayer games on Xbox, even after Xbox Live Gold is discontinued. Xbox Game Pass Core will offer online multiplayer gaming, and you will be able to play with friends and other gamers online.
What about Games with Gold?
Games with Gold was a program that offered free games to Xbox Live Gold subscribers each month. With the discontinuation of Xbox Live Gold, Games with Gold will also come to an end. However, any games that you have claimed through Games with Gold will still be available to play.
What about my GamerScore?
Your GamerScore is a way to track your gaming progress and achievements on Xbox. It will not be affected by the discontinuation of Xbox Live Gold.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Xbox Live Gold is going away, but it is being replaced by a new service called Xbox Game Pass Core. While there are some differences between the two services, Xbox Game Pass Core offers many of the same benefits, including online multiplayer gaming and exclusive discounts. If you have an active Xbox Live Gold subscription, you will be able to continue using it until the end of your subscription period, and then you will need to switch to Xbox Game Pass Core if you want to continue playing online multiplayer games.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Will I still be able to play online multiplayer games on Xbox?
- Yes, you will still be able to play online multiplayer games on Xbox, even after Xbox Live Gold is discontinued.
- What happens to my Xbox Live Gold subscription?
- If you have an active Xbox Live Gold subscription, you will be able to continue using it until the end of your subscription period.
- Will I still be able to get free games through Xbox Live Gold?
- No, Games with Gold will come to an end with the discontinuation of Xbox Live Gold.
- What about my GamerScore?
- Your GamerScore will not be affected by the discontinuation of Xbox Live Gold.