Top 15 Biggest Video Game Disappointments

Xbox Game Pass: The Changing Landscape

When Xbox Game Pass launched, it felt like the ultimate treasure trove for gamers. The new Xbox Series X/S consoles offered this expansive library with day-one Microsoft releases for a mere ten dollars a month. Players were living the dream.

Rising Costs and Challenges

Over recent years, the price tag has crept upwards. This was happening alongside global financial instability post-COVID. In 2023, Game Pass for consoles nudged up to $11. Meanwhile, Game Pass Ultimate, which also opened the door to PC games, jumped two bucks to $16.99. Despite murmurs about Microsoft’s jaw-dropping $69 billion purchase of Activision Blizzard, the price hike was just below inflation.

Major Changes in 2024

Then came the seismic shifts of 2024. In a move that sent shockwaves, Microsoft announced another price increase. Game Pass Ultimate surged from $17 to $20. That marked an 18% hike, significantly outpacing inflation. But, the real kicker? Microsoft axed the more affordable $11 console-only tier. Enter Game Pass Standard, sporting a $15 price tag sans day-one releases, marking a steep 50% hike for a lesser offering.

What did this mean for gamers? For those hoping to dive into the complete library and enjoy day-one Microsoft games, the price leap was stark—$11 to $20 per month. As the Activision Blizzard acquisition finalized, it seemed to cast a long shadow over these changes.

The Era of Resentment

By 2024, the Game Pass evolved from being a remarkable deal to one causing a touch of resentment. At a hefty $240 annually, with no discount in sight, it’s got gamers grumbling. And if there’s one thing we know, it’s that gamers are never shy about speaking their minds.