Reports indicate that Xbox Game Pass deals are becoming less frequent, which could negatively impact indie developers.

Reports indicate that Xbox Game Pass deals are becoming less frequent, which could negatively impact indie developers.

      Xbox

      When you ask most gamers about their reasons for subscribing to Xbox Game Pass, they'll likely highlight the availability of Xbox exclusives on launch day. However, developers tend to see the service from a different perspective. For many indie studios, a Game Pass agreement was more than just a way to gain visibility—it provided financial stability prior to launch.

      Securing a Game Pass deal often ensured guaranteed income before a game was even released, thus minimizing the financial risk of launching an indie game in a market that is becoming increasingly saturated. Yet, this safety net may no longer be as reliable as it once was.

      An unexpected halt

      During an appearance on The Business of Video Game Podcast, publishing executive Mike Rose remarked that developers who were deep into negotiations with Microsoft regarding Game Pass contracts have suddenly seen those talks come to a standstill. Rose indicated that several studios were on the verge of finalizing deals when negotiations were unexpectedly paused. Although he refrained from stating that Microsoft had completely terminated the agreements, his impression is that the company is holding off as it considers its next steps.

      Xbox

      This assertion carries significant weight. For numerous independent studios, partnering with Game Pass is more than just another method of distribution—it's a crucial part of their business strategy. Microsoft has not publicly addressed these claims, nor has the company commented on the situation.

      Taking it one step at a time

      The timing of this development is also noteworthy. Microsoft is currently in what Xbox leadership has described as a reset of its gaming business. There are reports that additional layoffs may be forthcoming, with some studios potentially at risk of closing. In this context, it wouldn’t be surprising if new spending commitments were temporarily reevaluated while broader priorities undergo assessment. Additionally, Game Pass has seen several changes recently, including adjustments to subscription pricing, alterations to how major releases, such as future Call of Duty titles, are integrated into the service, and increased Xbox console prices in various markets.

      COD

      None of these actions necessarily suggest imminent trouble for Game Pass itself. The service continues to be one of Xbox’s strongest competitive advantages. However, if the reports regarding stalled third-party deals are accurate, it could indicate a shift in Microsoft’s investment approach regarding the content that contributed to Game Pass's initial appeal. For subscribers, the impact may not be immediately obvious. Nonetheless, for indie developers relying on Game Pass to launch their next game, the uncertainty could be much more difficult to overlook.

      Shimul is a contributor at Digital Trends, boasting over five years of experience in the tech industry.

      I just played Ghost of Tsushima on a phone. I never imagined this day would come, and I don’t regret this unusual experience.

      Running Ghost of Tsushima on the Red Magic 11S Pro almost feels incorrect.

      I have tested various gaming phones, but nothing quite prepared me for witnessing Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut start up on the Red Magic 11S Pro. This wasn’t cloud gaming or using Remote Play from a PlayStation elsewhere in the house. I utilized GameHub, linked it to Steam, and after some trial and error, managed to run the PC version of Ghost of Tsushima on a phone—much to my surprise, it was far more playable than I anticipated.

      And yes, it looked as absurd as it sounds. Seeing Jin Sakai displayed on a phone screen, coupled with a GameHub overlay, virtual shoulder buttons, and a live FPS counter on top, made the entire setup feel a lot more feasible.

      Read more

      Forget console wars. Steam Machine may help eliminate lackluster PC gaming ports.

      Valve’s costly mini PC could set a new standard for PC gaming.

      Valve’s Steam Machine has become a target for criticism. Its price starts considerably higher than current consoles, and the hardware falls somewhere between entry-level and mid-range gaming PCs rather than a high-end rig. Initial reviews have also noted that demanding games require upscaling, lowered settings, and realistic expectations.

      In light of the ongoing memory crisis, it seems like a challenging time to introduce a PC for couch gaming. However, the Steam Machine doesn’t need to compete with high-end gaming PCs or major consoles. Its goal has been distinct from the beginning. What truly sets it apart is its potential to transform the PC gaming segment.

      GTA 6 may not see the physical release fans were anticipating.

      The game may come in a case, but it won't include a disc.

      Grand Theft Auto 6 pre-orders recently launched, but the excitement was tempered by one frustrating detail. The so-called physical edition of the game will not come with a disc. Instead, buyers will receive a box featuring cover art and a download code inside.

      This decision sparked backlash online, particularly among collectors who still value having games on disc. For a time, there was hope that this situation would only be temporary. Reports hinted that Rockstar could offer a true disc version of GTA 6 in December 2026, giving fans of physical media something to look forward to

Reports indicate that Xbox Game Pass deals are becoming less frequent, which could negatively impact indie developers. Reports indicate that Xbox Game Pass deals are becoming less frequent, which could negatively impact indie developers. Reports indicate that Xbox Game Pass deals are becoming less frequent, which could negatively impact indie developers. Reports indicate that Xbox Game Pass deals are becoming less frequent, which could negatively impact indie developers. Reports indicate that Xbox Game Pass deals are becoming less frequent, which could negatively impact indie developers. Reports indicate that Xbox Game Pass deals are becoming less frequent, which could negatively impact indie developers. Reports indicate that Xbox Game Pass deals are becoming less frequent, which could negatively impact indie developers.

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Reports indicate that Xbox Game Pass deals are becoming less frequent, which could negatively impact indie developers.

Xbox Game Pass has historically served as a safety net for indie developers, but that situation might be shifting. There are indications within the industry that new agreements are being paused as Microsoft reassesses its gaming strategy.