The Xbox Games with Gold program has seen many ups and downs this year, especially since the quality of free games it offers subscribers has often been called into question. However, the program did receive a positive reception this month, and players were mostly happy with the lineup of games that were made available to the program.
The big question that most subscribers probably have now is, will Microsoft retain August 2021's success throughout the year? Of course, the answer to that question will be made clearer once the company announces the next roster for Xbox Games with Gold, which is why the month of September will be crucial in determining the direction of the program moving forward.
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Xbox Games with Gold for September 2021 Could Make or Break the Service
The official lineup of Xbox Games with Gold for September 2021 remains a mystery, given that Microsoft usually announces the new roster towards the end of the month. However, given the constant questioning of the declining value of Games with Gold, many are wondering if the positive reception the program received this month is a signal that Microsoft is now committed to ensuring that it satisfies its paying subscribers.
While the demands of Xbox Live Gold subscribers would vary from player to player, the most requested changes that fans are asking for are a better selection of free games and the inclusion of at least one next-generation title. Unfortunately, the possibility of Microsoft including full-fledged Xbox Series X/S games on Games with Gold appears to be slimmer as time passes. It is worth noting that the service has never included an Xbox Series X/S game, except for the next-gen version of Gears 5 that was included in February's roster. In comparison, Sony's PS Plus service has included a PS5 game ever since the console was released last November.
Although Microsoft has never addressed the lack of next-gen support for Xbox Games with Gold, the company is likely reserving Xbox Series X/S games for Xbox Game Pass, especially since the company is consistent in promoting the service as the future of Xbox Gaming. However, even without next-gen games, the Xbox Games with Gold program could still prosper by ensuring that its roster includes popular AAA and indie titles instead of niche games that no one has even heard of.
What Could Happen if September 2021's Free Games with Gold Proves to be Another Disappointment?
Unfortunately, there is still the possibility that the success of August 2021's Free Games with Gold is only a one-off thing. It is worth remembering that February's Games with Gold also received a positive reception, only for players to be disappointed again once the roster of titles for March was revealed. Should this happen again in September, it wouldn't be surprising if Microsoft sees the start of the decline in Xbox Live Gold subscribers, with some switching to Xbox Game Pass.
In the end, September 2021 could mean one of two ways for Xbox Live Gold. First, Microsoft may be able to wow its subscribers again with a better lineup of free games that would ensure the program's longevity, especially against Xbox Game Pass. However, the second scenario may see the company reverting to its old ways, pushing its loyal subscribers to switch to Xbox Game Pass instead.
In some ways, this may be what Microsoft wants to happen all along. Despite consistent rumors that the company is planning to shut down Xbox Live Gold, Microsoft continues to deny these claims. Likely, the company doesn't want to shut down Xbox Live Gold right now while most Xbox One players are still thinking about which next-gen console to get. However, once the company is satisfied with the number of players owning the Xbox Series X/S, it could signal the end of Xbox Live Gold and the start of the great migration to Xbox Game Pass.
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