Microsoft have walked back the Xbox Live Gold monthly price increase, along with announcing free to play games not requiring the membership to play.
We previously reported how Xbox Live Gold prices had been raised to $10.99 USD for one month, $29.99 USD for three months, and $59.99 USD for six months. Based on the prior price, this was an increase of $1 USD for one month, $5 USD for three months, and $20 USD for six months.
It seems it was not just our own commenters that took umbrage with the raised prices. Admitting “today was not so great” on Twitter, the original announcement post on the Xbox website was updated.
After thanking fans for their feedback, they confirmed the prices would continue as they were prior to the prior announcement. In addition, Microsoft announced that free-to-play games would no longer need Xbox Live Gold membership to play.
“We messed up today and you were right to let us know. Connecting and playing with friends is a vital part of gaming and we failed to meet the expectations of players who count on it every day. As a result, we have decided not to change Xbox Live Gold pricing.
We’re turning this moment into an opportunity to bring Xbox Live more in line with how we see the player at the center of their experience. For free-to-play games, you will no longer need an Xbox Live Gold membership to play those games on Xbox. We are working hard to deliver this change as soon as possible in the coming months.
If you are an Xbox Live Gold member already, you stay at your current price for renewal. New and existing members can continue to enjoy Xbox Live Gold for the same prices they pay today. In the US, $9.99 for 1-month, $24.99 for 3-months, $39.99 for 6-months and $59.99 for retail 12-months.
Thank you.”