Microsoft is up to something big, apparently. The Redmond company is allegedly planning to unveil an Xbox All Access subscription service that will come with an Xbox One console, Xbox Live, and Xbox Game Pass.
The service, reportedly codenamed Project Largo, has been working toward the subscription model in recent months, according to multiple sources.
Both the Xbox One X and Xbox One S will be offered as part of the subscription, as The Verge reports, citing those sources, who are also alleging that Microsoft will offer the Xbox One X bundled with Xbox Live Gold and Xbox Game Pass for a monthly fee of $35 over two years. A lower tier, reportedly $22 a month, is available as well for those who'd be fine with just the Xbox One S.
Xbox All Access Subscription
Microsoft will offer the subscription via its retail stores, but the company is allegedly trying to approach PC manufacturers to look into other bundling options as well. The service will be limited to U.S. customers at first, but it could reach other markets when it proves successful. This is not unprecedented, keep in mind: Microsoft also subsidized an Xbox 360 bundle with Xbox Live Gold many years ago.
Plans can always change, but Windows Central says Microsoft looks to unveil this said service later this month. Microsoft probably chose not to announce it at Gamescom in Germany because as mentioned, the service will be based in the United States initially.
Based on Windows Central's calculations, paying for an Xbox All Access subscription should be a bit cheaper than paying for the console, Xbox Live, and Xbox Game Pass outright. Granted, online retailers offer amazing discounts from time to time, but this service already seems a good fit for new players who might not be able to afford upfront costs. After the two-year contract period has been fully paid, users will own their consoles.
Xbox Game Pass
Microsoft has been plenty bullish on Xbox Game Pass, supporting the service with an all-new app for mobile devices while cutting various deals with third-party titles to offer sweet promotions for players. Xbox All Access is not only a way for people to get their hands on an Xbox console more easily, but it could also boost long-term Xbox Game Pass subscriptions. It's a smart, if a little risky, move, but time will tell if it pays off in the end.
As always, if you have any comments about this alleged Xbox All Access service, feel free to sound them off in the comments section below!
