Microsoft taking final steps to end Xbox Live Gold requirement for free-to-play games
Truly free free-to-play games are almost here on Xbox consoles.
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What you need to know
Microsoft is in the final stages of ending the requirement of having Xbox Live Gold to play free-to-play games on consoles like theXbox Series XandXbox Series S. Last night, Microsoft started rolling out an update to Xbox Omega Insiders that removes the requirement for Xbox Live Gold.
We don’t have a confirmed date for when the requirement will end for non-Insiders, but it could be as soon as this month. Microsoft is quickly working through the Insider rings when it comes to ending the requirement. A similar update rolled out toXbox Beta Insiderson March 30, 2021. Alpha and Alpha Skip-Ahead Insidersgot the updateon March 24, 2021.
Here’sMicrosoft’s descriptionof the latest Omega Ring Insider update:
New Features and Experiences
We have exciting news! Omega users can expect something new coming to their Xbox Update Preview.
Subscriptions
Once the requirement ends for general users, people won’t have to have Xbox Live Gold to play free-to-play games or to look for Groups and Party Chats.
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Some of thebest Xbox gamesare free-to-play games. Once people don’t need Xbox Live Gold to play them, those excellent titles will become more accessible.
Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
