Microsoft calls out FTC over Game Pass experience claims
Logline:
Microsoft disputes the FTC’s claim that the Game Pass experience has worsened post-Activision Blizzard acquisition, labeling the allegations as misleading.
Breakdown:
The friction between Microsoft and the FTC recently escalated over Game Pass:
- Price of PC Game Pass increased from $9.99, €9.99, or £7.99 to $11.99, €11.99, and £9.99 per month.
- Introduction of a new ‘Standard tier’ Xbox Game Pass without day-one game access, cheaper but offering less.
- The FTC alleges this constitutes a “degraded” customer experience.
Microsoft’s counterarguments:
- The old Game Pass for Console lacked multiplayer functionality, which now costs more.
- The new Game Pass Ultimate, despite its price hike from $16.99 to $19.99/month, includes more game releases on their launch day.
- Call of Duty, previously unavailable on subscription day-and-date, will be included.
Plot Beats:
- FTC’s main trial focus was potential market harm if Call of Duty was withheld from other platforms, not the subscription service.
- Microsoft argues Call of Duty remains accessible and highlights PlayStation’s thriving subscription service despite fewer day-one game releases.
Cast and Crew:
Not applicable.
Buzz and Highlights:
- The debate exemplifies larger concerns over consumer rights in corporate mergers.
- Game Pass’s evolving tiers reflect ongoing industry trends towards subscription-based gaming models.
Production Notes:
- The price adjustments and new subscription tiers reflect Microsoft’s strategy to offer varied experiences for different budgets.
- Emphasizing value through more game releases aims to justify the price increase.
Closing Credits:
The ongoing tussle places a spotlight on consumer expectations versus corporate offerings, raising important questions about service value and competition in the gaming industry.
