Microsoft has officially rolled out its new Xbox Game Pass Standard tier. Priced at $14.99 per month, this new offering aims to bridge the gap between the basic Core tier and the premium Ultimate subscription. However, the tweener subscription has both notable additions and glaring omissions, much to the chagrin and confusion of Xbox Game Pass subscribers.
The Game Pass Standard tier provides subscribers access to a vast library of games, online console multiplayer capabilities, and exclusive discounts on select titles. This places it as a middle-ground option for gamers who want more than the basic Core offering but don't require all the bells and whistles of the Ultimate package (or they just don't play on the PC).
One of the most significant changes with the Standard tier is the absence of day-one game releases. Previously, subscribers to the now-discontinued Xbox Game Pass for Console tier enjoyed immediate access to new releases on their launch day.
With the new Standard plan, this perk is no longer available. Microsoft has stated it may add some games to the Standard library at a later date, but this could take up to 12 months or more, depending on the title.
High-profile upcoming titles like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle aren't coming to Game Pass Standard upon release. Instead, they'll need to either purchase these games separately, upgrade to the Ultimate tier, or subscribe to PC Game Pass to enjoy day-one access.