Microsoft reveals final games with Gold before transition to Game Pass Core

Microsoft has unveiled its Games with Gold lineup for August 2023, announcing the end of the promotion before transitioning to Game Pass Core in September. This August, subscribers can download two games: the 3D action platformer "Blue Fire" and the arcade racer "Inertial Drift," playable on Xbox One and Xbox Series X and S from August 1 to 31. These titles will mark the final Games with Gold offerings, as the program concludes on September 1.

Replacing Xbox Live Gold, Microsoft's Game Pass Core will launch on September 14, providing subscribers with online console multiplayer access and a library of over 25 games for $9.99 per month or $59.99 annually. Existing Xbox Live Gold members will automatically transition to Game Pass Core upon its launch.

Microsoft reassures players that any Games with Gold games redeemed in the past will remain accessible for both Xbox Game Pass Core and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members. Additionally, all Xbox 360 titles acquired through Games with Gold will be preserved in a player's library, ensuring continued enjoyment of these games.

Earlier, Game Pass experienced its first price increase in six years, with Xbox Game Pass now priced at $10.99 per month and Game Pass Ultimate at $16.99 per month. The introduction of Game Pass Core at the $9.99 price point offers subscribers a more budget-friendly option. These changes come amid concerns about slowing Game Pass growth and its potential impact on sales.