Xbox Game Pass is riling UK indie shops – and they may boycott the console

By Emma Boyle

Just last week Microsoft announced that it’s expanding its subscription service, Xbox Game Pass, to include all new Microsoft Studios games. It’s a move that greatly benefits gamers and it’s proved popular, particularly as it means upcoming exclusives such as Sea of Thieves will be available to subscribers from launch day.

It has, however, proven less appealing to independent game retailers. In a recent report from GamesIndustry.biz, it’s emerged that some retailers are so unhappy with the move, they’re considering stopping selling Xbox hardware and software altogether.

The main concern for these retailers is that the service will negatively impact their second-hand sales, with one retailer telling the outlet: “Essentially, it’s made [our Xbox business] worthless overnight. You’ve got the whole section sat there, and why would people buy a £12 to £15 second-hand game when they can just pay a tenner and get a massive catalog of titles to keep them going?”

Console controversy

Some retailers have even said that they’re no longer willing to stock Xbox hardware and software, including the upcoming Sea of Thieves, because they don’t feel supported by Microsoft.

Despite the fact that Sony has its own subscription service, the company appeared …read more

Source:: techradar.com – Gaming