Phil Spencer Discusses the Effect of Xbox Game Pass on Single-Player Games

Xbox Game Pass is doing wonders for keeping modern single-player games both diverse and thriving, according to Phil Spencer, Microsoft’s Gaming CEO. In a recent chat, Spencer credited the subscription service as a key element helping developers avoid the lure of transforming every title into a live-service game.

Come June 1, Microsoft will be celebrating eight years of Xbox Game Pass, a service reminiscent of Netflix but for games. Although the company doesn’t frequently update on subscriber numbers, they occasionally drop tidbits, like the recent revelation of a record-breaking revenue during the second quarter of the 2025 fiscal year. Critics have often questioned the business model of the service. Nonetheless, Microsoft keeps affirming that Xbox Game Pass is not only viable but offers a multitude of benefits, some of which might not be immediately apparent.

Spencer, in a candid conversation with XboxEra, elaborated on one of the advantages Xbox Game Pass brings to the table: its role in sustaining single-player games. “Launching a subscription was part of our strategy to back games that tell a complete story from start to finish,” he noted. In line with this philosophy, it’s implied that Double Fine Productions’ upcoming project will follow this single-player path.

While acknowledging the gaming industry’s tilt towards live-service models, Spencer made it clear that Microsoft was never meant to focus solely on such games. He shared, “It wasn’t my vision to see every game turn into a massive service-based model.” He envisions Xbox Game Pass as a platform that spotlights smaller single-player games, reducing their dependence on direct sales and making them more commercially sustainable.

Despite the support for single-player titles, Microsoft’s initiatives aren’t entirely free of sales pressures. This reality was evident in mid-2024 when several Xbox studios shut down, including the one behind the acclaimed rhythm game Hi-Fi Rush, which Microsoft claimed was a success based on its budget.

Looking ahead, Xbox Game Pass is set to welcome a plethora of single-player games in 2025 from Microsoft and various third-party developers. Among the anticipated releases are Doom: The Dark Ages, South of Midnight, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, all showcased at the January Xbox Developer Direct. Before these hit the service in spring, subscribers can dive into Obsidian’s highly anticipated fantasy RPG, Avowed, slated for release on February 18. Players eager to jump into the adventure early might have already explored its world since February 13 through early access, available for those who purchased advanced editions or opted for the Premium Upgrade Addon on Xbox Game Pass.