PC Game Pass May Undergo Changes Due to Upcoming Xbox

by Jonathan Dubinski February 8, 2026

written by Jonathan Dubinski February 8, 2026

Key Takeaways

Created with AI - we're still experimenting, so apologies if it misses the mark

Microsoft is merging PC Game Pass and Game Pass Premium into a unified subscription, providing access to games across both platforms.
Xbox exclusives may be included in the premium tier of this combined service, though not all benefits from the Ultimate tier will extend to PC Game Pass.
There are potential bundle deals with other services in the works, expanding Microsofts gaming offerings.
The next Xbox console could be a powerful, PC-based system designed for living room use, and discussions are ongoing with major companies about bundling Game Pass with their services.

Microsoft Unifies Game Pass Across Platforms with Premium Merge and Potential Bundle Deals

Microsoft Gaming is planning changes to its Game Pass service, according to two reliable sources with a history of early disclosures. Microsoft reportedly intends to merge PC Game Pass with Game Pass Premium, creating a unified subscription that grants access across both platforms. This could include offering Xbox exclusives within the Premium tier, though not all Ultimate tier benefits may extend to PC Game Pass. In addition to the subscription changes, there are reports of potential bundle deals with other services. Looking ahead, the next Xbox console may be a powerful, PC-based system designed for the living room. Microsoft is also in discussions with major companies about bundling Game Pass with their services, further expanding its reach.

In Case You Missed It

In a recent gaming frenzy, Ahmed Hassan has been exploring and sharing his finds. First off, he took the Retroid Pocket 5 for a whirl in “We’ve Tested the Retroid Pocket 5: It’s Still the Queen of Retrogaming, and Much More!” We’ve Tested the Retroid Pocket 5: It’s Still the Queen of Retrogaming, and Much More! published on February 8th. He was blown away by its premium build quality, vibrant AMOLED touchscreen, and impressive emulation capabilities, making it a must-have for old-school gaming enthusiasts and modern title explorers alike.

Midway through our deep dive into “The Evolution of Open-World Gaming,” Ahmed unearthed another gem worth mentioning, especially for PS Plus subscribers. In his recent post, “Survival Game in Open World Free on PS Plus Until March 3rd” Survival Game in Open World Free on PS Plus Until March 3rd published on the same day, he highlighted Subnautica: Below Zero, a captivating underwater exploration game that’s currently free to grab until March 3rd. Unlike its survival game peers, Below Zero offers a more contemplative pace filled with base and vehicle construction, material gathering, and exploration in frozen land areas.

Lastly, Ahmed wrapped up the week with some fantastic news for Xbox Game Pass subscribers. In his latest post, “Next Week’s Releases Include Titles Arriving Directly on Xbox Game Pass” Next Week’s Releases Include Titles Arriving Directly on Xbox Game Pass published on February 7th, he revealed that starting next week, you’ll have immediate access to a trio of highly anticipated titles: the alien adventure High On Life 2, the stylish roguelite action game Blazblue Entropy Effect X, and Relooted’s fresh take on heist missions. Don’t miss out on these exciting releases!