Xbox Live Gold no longer required for free-to-play games, prices not rising

That has to be a record, right?

What you need to know


Earlier, Microsoft announced the price of Xbox Live Gold would be increased.
This price hike has just been reversed.
Additionally, Xbox Live Gold is no longer required for free-to-play games.


Earlier today, Microsoft announced the price of Xbox Live Gold was being increased, with a six month subscription going for $60. This led to a large outcry, including scathing commentary from our own Xbox lead Jez Corden, who called it "the worst deal in gaming."

Microsoft has just announced that the price hike is being cancelled. Additionally, Xbox Live Gold will no longer be required for free-to-play games, such as Fortnite or Call of Duty: Warzone. This latter change is being worked on but will be coming sometime "as soon as possible in the coming months."

Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate are staying unchanged, meaning they'll deliver the same benefits as before.

This change was sudden and brings Xbox Live Gold closer in ...