Why are people still mostly buying new games instead of subscribing to Xbox Game Pass?

Despite the value proposition of Xbox Game Pass, several factors contribute to why people still predominantly buy new games instead of subscribing:

1. Ownership and Long-Term Access: Many gamers prefer owning games for long-term access. With Game Pass, once a game leaves the service, it can no longer be played unless purchased separately56. This uncertainty about game availability makes buying appealing for those who want permanent access.

2. Specific Game Preferences: Not all popular or desired games are available on Game Pass. Some titles never join the service, and others leave after a period6. Gamers often purchase specific titles they are interested in if they're not available through subscription services.

3. Gaming Habits: The average gamer spends significant time playing just a few games per year4. For players who focus on a small number of titles over an extended period, buying individual games might be more cost-effective than paying for a subscription that offers many unused options.

4. Free-to-Play Dominance: The gaming landscape is increasingly dominated by free-to-play models4, which reduces the appeal of subscription services like Xbox Game Pass for some players.

5. Saturation and Consumer Behavior: While Xbox Game Pass has reached a saturation point among console users (with 10-15% using it), most consumers still prefer purchasing new games directly28.

In summary, while Xbox Game Pass offers value through its vast library and convenience, many gamers continue to buy new games due to preferences for ownership, specific title availability, gaming habits that favor fewer but deeply engaged experiences, and shifts in market trends towards free-to-play models.