Looks like Xbox is thinking about a new Game Pass tier, but this one’s a bit different. Instead of throwing in every game under the sun, this new option would only include first-party Xbox games. Yup, the exclusives and classics from Xbox Studios, no third-party or day-one new releases. It’s like a Game Pass lite for those who just want the Xbox-only stuff without paying full price.
Here’s What We Know So Far About This New Game Pass Tier
Dataminers digging through Xbox’s backend found hints of a tier codenamed “TRION.” According to what’s been uncovered, this tier would list games like Doom Eternal, Dishonored 2, Fable Anniversary, Fallout 4, Gears 5, Halo 5, and Ori and the Blind Forest. It even includes live-service games like The Elder Scrolls Online. But here’s the catch – these are mostly older titles, and a lot of newer Xbox hits like Starfield or Forza aren’t on the list.
Wake up babe, another Game Pass codename dropped
Games with this codename so far:
– DOOM 64
– Psychonauts
– Retro Classics https://t.co/Z1X4nvYiN4 pic.twitter.com/IpkN3fkuUD
— red // Better xCloud (@redphx) March 18, 2026So it’s not the full buffet of Xbox exclusives, more like a sampler platter of classic and older first-party games. No word yet on whether new games will show up on day one or if this tier will include those fresh releases, but so far it looks like it’s sticking with the older stuff.
Why Would Xbox Do This? To Give You a Cheaper Way In
The idea seems pretty clear: offer a lower-cost subscription for players who aren’t interested in the full Game Pass experience but still want to enjoy Xbox exclusives. It’s a way to compete with other platforms by giving folks a budget option. Some even speculate this could be a free tier, though that sounds unlikely – especially without ads popping up mid-game.
But even if it’s not free, this tier would almost certainly cost less than the current Essential, Premium, or Ultimate plans. It’s a neat way to attract players who just want to dive into some great Xbox classics without paying for the entire Game Pass library.
Still a Lot of Questions, but This Could Shake Things Up
We don’t have official confirmation or pricing yet, so it’s all speculation based on datamining. Also, the list of games so far is pretty brief and leaves out some big Xbox titles, which leaves us wondering how this will evolve. It could be an early test or a way to clear out the digital shelf for older games that don’t get much spotlight these days.
This move comes as Xbox’s new CEO Asha Sharma settles into her role, hinting at possible shifts in how Xbox handles Game Pass. With recent announcements including big third-party games and indie highlights, Xbox seems to be rethinking its subscription strategy.
For now, if you love Xbox exclusives but don’t want to pay for the full Game Pass, keep an eye on this “TRION” tier. It might be the wallet-friendly way to catch up on some solid Xbox classics without breaking the bank.
