Why Microsoft changed the 360 subscription model for Xbox One's free-games program

Microsoft is changing the way subscribers of its premium service will get free games, and this might turn out positive for you, publishers, and Microsoft.

Games with Gold is coming to Xbox One in June. Customers that subscribe to the Xbox Live Gold service will have the opportunity to get physics puzzler Max: The Curse of Brotherhood and third-person shooter Halo: Spartan Assault at no additional charge during that month. Unlike for the Xbox 360, however, gamers will lose access to those releases if they cease their subscription to Xbox Live. This is how PlayStation Plus works for PS3 and PS4 — and Microsoft wants to start offering comparable games on Xbox One.