With the delay of Halo Infinite to 2021, the Xbox Series X's console launch was left without a major exclusive. Breaking decades of tradition, Xbox instead decided to make its Xbox Game Pass subscription service the focus instead, advertising access to 30 games optimized for Xbox Series X at launch. It was a risky effort, but according to newly shared data regarding Xbox Game Pass adoption, it has proved to be fruitful.
According to new information shared through Xbox Wire, Xbox Game Pass "engagement" doubled year-over-year in November. Specific numbers weren't provided, though for perspective Xbox said something similar in January 2020. Xbox Game Pass adoption is increasing at a very fast rate. It's worth noting that the word engagement doesn't necessarily imply subscriptions, however, and the unclear language may imply otherwise. Exactly what engagement means will require further clarification.
Some conclusions can be drawn by the information Xbox provided, however. The one number that has been provided by Xbox is a subscription total of over 10 million users shared in April this year. As of September, that subscriber number was said to have grown 50 percent, and as such subscribers all but certain to be above 15 million, but maybe not quite at 20. The reality is that while Xbox Series X/S adoption is high, there are only so many new consoles available. Only so many potential new subscribers can be expected as a result, so this number will likely continue to rapidly grow over the next six months or so.
Speaking of new subscribers, Xbox did make an interesting note regarding the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S divide. When it comes to entirely new Xbox users, 40 percent are apparently playing for the first time on an Xbox Series S. Past Xbox users are likely choosing Xbox Series X in greater numbers, but it seems a lot of first-timers are more than comfortable going with the affordable console option.
Game Pass' continued success would practically be guaranteed even without it being such a major focus for the Xbox Series X/S launch. The service is likely to see a significant number of additions in the coming months. For example, Bethesda's game library is likely to be made available once Microsoft's acquisition finalizes, and there are bound to be some big first-party exclusives releasing in 2021.
One other interesting details from Xbox's post is a message saying to look forward to The Game Awards 2020 "for more surprises." Xbox users may have more reasons to subscribe to Xbox Game Pass starting as soon as tomorrow.
Source: Xbox Wire