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Xbox Game Pass has been a contentious topic since its launch in 2017. Despite this, Microsoft and Xbox have consistently pursued the Game Pass strategy. According to Chris Charla, head of Xbox’s ID@Xbox program, Xbox is making its largest investment in Game Pass in 2025.
Charla stated, “The majority of partners who’ve had a game in Game Pass want to bring their future titles to the service.” As a result, they have signed deals with over 150 partners to expand the catalog. Additionally, they continue to engage with hundreds of partners each year to review upcoming titles.
Last year, Xbox worked with over 50 teams to sign their first Game Pass deal. This year marks its largest investment in Game Pass yet, and they remain focused on delivering the most exciting and diverse catalog in gaming.
Microsoft’s financial reports show that Xbox revenue is growing, despite criticisms from former Xbox Studios developers and analyst reports. Game Pass brings in $5 billion annually for Microsoft.
It may have deeper implications for the industry and games on the service, as noted several times before. However, it’s clear that Microsoft is more concerned with how well its business performs financially rather than cultural ramifications.
Since 2017, the future of the Xbox platform has been tied to Game Pass, and at least in the near future, this won’t change.
