It has been rumoured for some time that Microsoft was considering pulling the plug on its Microsoft Points, now at the E3 games conference in the Los Angeles conference centre this week.
Microsoft has officially announced that Microsoft Points within their Xbox Live service will be coming to an end and will shortly be replaced by local currencies.
The Transition to Local Currencies
This now means that all items within Microsoft’s Xbox Live service on the Xbox One will now be priced in local currencies, making it easier for gamers to understand how much items will cost in real-world currency. This change is expected to simplify transactions and make the purchasing process more transparent for users. Previously, Microsoft Points required users to convert their money into points, which often led to confusion and frustration. By switching to local currencies, Microsoft aims to enhance the user experience and streamline the purchasing process.
The transition to local currencies is not just a minor update; it represents a significant shift in how Microsoft approaches digital transactions. This move aligns Xbox Live with other digital marketplaces like the PlayStation Store and Steam, which have long used local currencies. This change is expected to be particularly beneficial for younger gamers and those who are not familiar with the points system, as it eliminates the need for mental conversions and makes the cost of items immediately clear.
Sharing Gold Features and Memberships
Microsoft also revealed that their new next-generation Xbox One gaming console will also allow users to share gold features among other members of the household. This means that a single Xbox Live Gold membership can be used by multiple users on the same console, providing more value for families and households with multiple gamers. This feature is a significant improvement over the previous system, where each user needed their own separate Gold membership to access online multiplayer and other premium features.
In addition to this, Xbox Live Gold memberships created on the older generation Xbox 360 will now carry over to the new generation Xbox One console. This backward compatibility ensures that long-time Xbox users do not lose their memberships or any associated benefits when upgrading to the new console. This seamless transition is part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to create a more integrated and user-friendly ecosystem across its gaming platforms.
Moreover, the ability to share Gold features can foster a more communal gaming experience. Families can now enjoy multiplayer games together without the added expense of multiple subscriptions. This feature also extends to other Gold benefits, such as free monthly games and exclusive discounts, making it a more attractive proposition for households.
Additional Benefits and Future Prospects
The move to local currencies and the ability to share Gold memberships are just a few of the many enhancements Microsoft is bringing to its Xbox Live service. These changes are part of a broader effort to make the Xbox ecosystem more user-friendly and competitive. By listening to user feedback and making these adjustments, Microsoft is positioning itself to better compete with other gaming platforms.
Furthermore, these changes could pave the way for more flexible and user-centric features in the future. For example, Microsoft could introduce family plans or tiered memberships that offer different levels of access and benefits. The focus on local currencies and shared memberships indicates a shift towards a more inclusive and accessible gaming environment.
In conclusion, Microsoft’s decision to phase out Microsoft Points in favor of local currencies and to allow the sharing of Gold features among household members marks a significant step forward in enhancing the Xbox Live experience. These changes are designed to make transactions more straightforward and to provide better value for users, reflecting Microsoft’s commitment to improving its gaming ecosystem.
Source: Joystiq – Image Credit : Engadet
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