Xbox addresses rumors of removing day-one releases from Game Pass

Insider Gaming reports Xbox has addressed rumors of Game Pass changes in 2027, including the possible removal of day-one releases. The launch strategy also drew criticism from former id Software producer Andrew Willis, according to ElderPlayers. He called putting DOOM: The Dark Ages on Game Pass on day one a “stupid idea” and said Microsoft had never defined clear criteria for measuring games’ success on the service, questioning whether playtime, installs or subscriber retention mattered.