Xbox Game Pass might not have the universal backing of Microsoft's own game developers. Industry reporter Jason Schreier revealed that several internal studio leaders harbor deep doubts about the subscription model. While the service remains a central pillar of the Xbox brand, developers increasingly worry about its impact on traditional game sales.
Speaking on the Xbox Two podcast, Schreier explained that internal attitudes toward the service are highly divided. Smaller teams welcome the exposure. It puts niche projects in front of millions of players instantly. But leaders of major studios increasingly wonder how much money they leave on the table by bypassing retail sales. This skepticism is growing. Microsoft recently cut jobs across its gaming division while subscriber numbers plateaued.
This internal tension aligns with wider corporate struggles at Microsoft. A report from Bloomberg indicated that the corporate goal of building a Netflix for games
has not met expectations. Even massive moves like the acquisition of Activision Blizzard and putting the Call of Duty franchise on the service have failed to spark the massive subscriber spike executives wanted. The subscription model is still a priority, but the industry is starting to ask whether it can ever truly replace old school retail purchases.
