Game Pass Could’ve Worked, Moon Studios Boss Says, But Xbox Never Delivered the Big Hits It Needed

Live updates

1. 1d ago

   Moon Studios CEO Claims Mediocre Content Hindered Xbox Game Pass Growth

   Thomas Mahler argues that Xbox Game Pass failed to reach its potential due to a lack of top-tier first-party titles. He suggests the service prioritized mediocre filler over mainstream hits. This gap in content led to subscriber loss.

   What's confirmed:

   • Thomas Mahler says Xbox Game Pass could have thrived if Microsoft provided more blockbuster hits.
   • Mahler claims the lack of top-tier titles caused the service to fail to grow as much as possible.
   • The CEO of Moon Studios believes the service lacked games capable of attracting a mainstream audience.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • Mahler likened Xbox Game Pass to a slop factory and compared it to Communism.
   • Xbox rewarded studios for mediocre filler instead of must-play exclusives.
   confidence 90%
2. 3d ago

   Moon Studios CEO Criticizes Xbox Game Pass Content Strategy

   Thomas Mahler, CEO of Moon Studios, states that Xbox Game Pass could have succeeded if Microsoft provided more blockbuster first-party titles. He argues the subscription model required a steady supply of important games to keep players subscribed. Mahler suggests developers lacked the incentive to create smash hits under this system.

   What's confirmed:

   • Moon Studios CEO Thomas Mahler says Xbox Game Pass could have worked if Microsoft delivered more must-play first-party games.
   • Mahler argues that a subscription service based on monthly payments needs a steady supply of games that feel important enough to maintain subscribers.
   • Xbox is closing Ninja Theory.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • Xbox is planning to shutter Compulsion Games.
   • Microsoft has considered spinning off Xbox.
   • Xbox had already planned to close Ninja Theory despite the Senua announcement.
   • Studios in the Xbox division are bracing for closures.
   confidence 90%