In February 2016 I wrote my first article on the Xbox Live Games with Gold series. My goal was to take a look at what was on offer, based on what I already may have known about the games or, barring that, how they were depicted in the video and share my thoughts. A basic premise, sure, but one that gave me one assured entry per month to cover something gaming related that I had an interest in.
It became a regular part of what amounted to me covering gaming news. I never intended for Xadara to become a “news” website — no, it was always supposed to be a basic personal blog, but in an effort to try to go with what made others successful I went that route for many years. The Games with Gold entries became a staple and, for the most part, I did enjoy taking the time to think a little deeper on the offerings videos that were published. At least, until about the past year or so, where it has felt like a chore more than anything else.
I’ve not really found a good way to get out of writing on the topic, beyond just abandoning it cold turkey. Thankfully, this month Microsoft gave me an easy way out — they didn’t publish a video this month.
Oh no, only on Major Nelson’s website and through some other media did they actually share the Games with Gold lineup. If this is a one time fluke or not, who knows — the only other time they did this was in April 2020 right as the pandemic started up. I can’t write much about text articles like this because, well, what’s the point at that stage? The nature of a video presentation is what allows for the kinds of GwG entries I’ve made over the past 6 years. Without gameplay clips to contrast the game descriptions with, what’s the point? There isn’t one, to me. It’s like reviewing music by just looking at a lyrics sheet, rather than actually watching a music video or something like that.
At this point I also just don’t care, as the game selection has gone downhill and my interest has waned. I’ll still check out what’s on offer and redeem what I want but I just don’t care to be locked down into some article that just has to happen every month. Xadara is changing as am I, and while this metamorphosis is taking a long time it is most certainly well worth it for me personally, and for those who may follow my work online.
With this, I’m done with Games with Gold. I’ve covered 6 years of the program, probably more than any single person not affiliated with proper gaming journalism, and at this stage there’s no longer any value to it. I’m at a different point in my creative life, and stopped having fun with it a while back. It’s time to move forward.
Later, fellow gamers. As I always say, try to enjoy what you can, especially when it’s being offered gratis. You never know what may become your next favorite game.
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