Xbox Game Pass Update: Core, Standard Tiers Face Up To 12-Month Wait For New Releases
Microsoft confirms that Core and Standard Xbox Game Pass tiers may face up to 12 months of delay for first-party titles.
www.benzinga.comHere’s the latest I can share about Xbox Game Pass Core and 12-month options up to date.
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What Game Pass Core is: Core is the evolution of Xbox Live Gold, offering online multiplayer access plus a curated library of titles and member deals. It launched in 2023 and is the base tier below higher offerings like Ultimate. This is the current foundation for online play on Xbox consoles.[3][7][8]
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12-month subscriptions: Historically, 12-month codes for Game Pass Core have been available through retailers, similar to other multi-month subscriptions. These are typically sold by third-party retailers and can be activated on your Xbox account. Availability and pricing may vary by region and retailer.[5][6][10]
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Delays on new first-party titles: When Core and Standard were introduced, Microsoft indicated some day-one first-party games might not be immediately available in Core and Standard and could appear after a delay (potentially up to 12 months), with Ultimate and PC plans receiving first access on release. This shifting landscape affects how quickly you get new releases in any Core-based plan.[1]
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Current content and catalog: Core includes a rotating catalog of over 25 initially highlighted titles, with ongoing updates reflecting new or swapped games while maintaining online multiplayer access and member benefits.[3]
If you want, I can search for the latest specific 12-month pricing in your country (Italy) and current retailer options, or compile a quick comparison of Core vs. other tiers to help you decide. Would you like me to do that?
Sources: Xbox announcements and coverage on Core, its pricing and catalog; retailer listings for 12-month subscriptions; and reporting about day-one access timing for Core and Standard.[7][8][1][5][3]