Asha Sharma, the new CEO of Xbox, has responded to recent criticism of Xbox Game Pass from former PlayStation executive Shawn Layden, saying she would like to have a conversation with him about the service.
The discussion comes during a period of major changes at Microsoft Gaming in early 2026. After taking over the role following Phil Spencer’s retirement, Sharma admitted in a leaked memo that Game Pass has become “too expensive” for many users. She said the service needs a “better value equation” and hinted at plans to make it more flexible.
Shawn Layden reacted strongly to these reports. He has long argued that the model is not sustainable, and recently said the only solution for Game Pass is a “post mortem” analysis. He also commented that Microsoft may be pushing too hard to fix the service despite “unfavorable diagnostics and a grim prognosis,” suggesting the company should step back and study what went wrong.
In response, Sharma wrote on LinkedIn, “I would love to chat sometime.” Her reply leaves room for interpretation. She may want to explain how Game Pass helps smaller studios and supports projects through programs like ID@Xbox, or she may simply be open to a wider discussion about the gaming industry.
Despite all this, Sharma is still focused on improving the service rather than shutting it down. Possible changes include new, cheaper subscription tiers, such as the rumored “Triton” plan focused on first-party games, and “Duet,” which is expected to combine Game Pass with Netflix.
There are also reports that Microsoft may stop launching Call of Duty games on day one for Game Pass, starting with the upcoming 2026 release, as it is negatively impacting the franchise’s traditional sales revenue. For more Game Pass related coverage, keep checking GameObserver.
