With all the changes Microsoft is making to the Xbox Live service, including the phasing out of Microsoft Points as currency, some folks have been wondering how the latest update would affect the Xbox Live Rewards program. Well, ask and ye shall receive folks, because the Rewards page of Xbox.com has been updated addressing this very concern.
Instead of receiving Microsoft Points for purchasing new games or renewing a Gold membership, the new Rewards system will supposedly be “even better.” (You mean a system that gave me 20 Microsoft Points ($0.25) for my birthday each year can actually get better?!? No way!) “You’ll continue to get rewarded for doing the things you love on Xbox Live – just not with Microsoft Points,” reads the announcement. Additionally, the statement says to check back on September 1 for the full details about the changes coming to the program.
I’m not sure what Microsoft’s plans are for improving the Xbox Live Rewards system, but they definitely have their work cut out for them. For all that talk about “over-delivering value” with the Xbox One, it’s nearly impossible to defend the subscription fee attached to Xbox Live Gold in comparison to PlayStation Plus. There’s simply no comparison value-wise, and not in Microsoft’s favor. Luckily, this revamp of the Rewards program coupled with a stronger lineup for the Games with Gold program is every opportunity Xbox needs to truly over-deliver on value, should that promise actually be fulfilled.
What can Microsoft do to improve the Xbox Live Rewards program? What types of incentives and bonus perks should loyal customers receive? Share your thoughts in the usual place, and don’t forget to like IGXPro on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, or give us the ‘ol +1 on Google+. If you can’t get enough of my shenanigans, (who could blame you?) you can check me out @GamingsNirvana, or add +VinnyParisi to your circles.