In an exciting update, Microsoft has revealed the final Games with Gold lineup before the complete transition to the Game Pass core service. This announcement marks the end of an era as the Games with Gold service, which provides monthly free games to Xbox Live Gold subscribers, is phased out in favor of the increasingly popular Xbox Game Pass.
Two intriguing titles are being offered for free to Xbox Live Gold members in August 2023: Blue Fire and Inertial Drift. Both games are also available for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members, who enjoy all the benefits of Xbox Live Gold plus a broad array of high-quality games included with Xbox Game Pass.
Blue Fire, a game by Graffiti Games, is a captivating journey through the desolated kingdom of Penumbra. Players step into the shoes of a warrior of light and darkness tasked with saving the world from evil forces. With 3D platforming challenges, dangerous enemies, and engaging side quests, Blue Fire promises a thrilling adventure. The game, which typically retails at $19.99, will be available to Xbox Live Gold members for free from August 1 to August 31.
Inertial Drift by PQube Limited offers a change of pace as a retro-style arcade racing game. Set in a 90s-inspired neon future, it delivers an unparalleled twin-stick drift experience. Featuring 16 unique cars and 20 tracks, Inertial Drift provides both single-player story mode and multiplayer for players to test their drifting prowess. Like Blue Fire, Inertial Drift also retails at $19.99 and will be available to download for free from August 1 to 31 for Xbox Live Gold members.
This last Games with Gold lineup signifies the end of an era as Xbox transitions its services. From September 14, Xbox Live Gold memberships will automatically convert to Xbox Game Pass Core memberships at the existing price. This new plan will continue offering online console multiplayer and grant access to a library of over 25 high-quality games from the Game Pass catalog at no extra cost. Games with Gold will officially end on September 1.
While the change might be nostalgic for some, it’s worth noting that members will retain access to all the Games with Gold games they’ve redeemed as long as they maintain their Xbox Game Pass Core or Xbox Game Pass Ultimate memberships.
Microsoft’s shift to the Game Pass model indicates changing gaming industry trends, with more companies offering subscription-based services. With the final Games with Gold offerings, Microsoft seeks to give a fond farewell to a beloved service while looking forward to the future of gaming.
