The accidental leak of Microsoft’s internal documents has revealed some of the company’s plans, such as the upcoming new console set to be released in 2028. As if that weren’t enough, it has also exposed some rather questionable decisions, such as the rejection of Baldur’s Gate 3 coming to Xbox Game Pass.
According to what we can read on The Verge, the title developed by Larian was hardly considered to be included in Game Pass. In the leaked Microsoft emails, Baldur’s Gate 3 was referred to as a “second-rate PC RPG for Stadia.” Perhaps a kick in the stomach would have hurt less. However, it’s necessary to clarify here: these words referred to the release of Baldur’s Gate 3 on PC Game Pass, rather than on Xbox Series X. Currently, Larian Studios is developing a version for Microsoft’s consoles, which should be available before the end of the year.
The truth is that the success of Baldur’s Gate 3 has taken many by surprise. While the RPG had previously been available as early access for years, it wasn’t until the release of its final version that it achieved massive success, both critically and with the public.
The astronomical cost of Xbox Game Pass
After this leak, one thing has become clear: running a service like Game Pass is not cheap at all. By accessing the content of the emails exchanged between Phil Spencer and the Xbox management, we have been able to learn the price of some major games. In this case, the range can vary from 5 million dollars to as much as 300.
That was the case with Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, which precisely cost up to 300 million dollars. Some have a monthly cost, as is the case with Rockstar titles. Allowing users to play Red Dead Redemption 2 through Xbox Game Pass costs Microsoft around 5 million dollars per month.
