While various indie retailers have expressed to be upset with the recently announced changes to Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass, there appears to be plenty of demand for it.

　　At least, that’s what a Microsoft’s spokesperson told GamesIndustry.biz following this week’s independent retailer backlash. “Essentially, it’s made [our Xbox One business] worthless overnight. Why would people buy a second-hand game when they can just pay a tenner and get a massive catalogue of titles to keep them going?”, one retailer said. “Effectively overnight they’ve […] made it not worth doing. Why should we support them and sell their consoles and accessories if we’re going to get very little out of it? We don’t make anything off their digital selection. It’s pretty pointless. We might as well go where we’re supported, which is Sony. […] For the consumer, it’s absolutely fantastic. For us in retail, it just kills us outright.”

　　Last week, Microsoft announced that it will be adding its Xbox exclusives to the Xbox Game Pass starting with the upcoming Sea of Thieves.

　　While some independent retailers have expressed their disappointment with Microsoft, the majority of them are embracing the ‘netflix’ of games.

　　“The response to the news thus far has been positive," the Microsoft spokesperson told GamesIndustry.biz. "As we noted in our announcement, our plan is to offer ways for select retailers to assort and promote Game Pass.”

　　"In fact, we've been pleasantly surprised with the breadth of demand from retailers so far, and we're considering if and how we broaden our distribution plans. We welcome feedback on our plans, and will continue to evolve our plans as appropriate."

　　Microsoft added that the interest in both the Game Pass and Rare's upcoming Sea of Thieves has been “strong”.

　　What are your thoughts on the recently announced changes to Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass? Hit the comments below.