Microsoft has announced that its Xbox Ambassadors program, which has been running for over 13 years, will soon come to an end. The company has officially begun winding down the program and will completely shut it down by October 15. Members have until then to redeem any remaining codes and rewards from the program.
What Was the Xbox Ambassadors Program?
The Xbox Ambassadors program was created to promote a healthy and inclusive gaming community. According to Microsoft, the program aimed to represent the values of inclusivity, safety, and fun. Members of the program were passionate Xbox players who were encouraged to engage with the gaming community by offering support and spreading positivity among fellow gamers.
While Xbox Ambassadors were not official employees, they had to meet specific criteria to join the program. These requirements included having a minimum of 1,500 Gamerscore and being at least 17 years old. In return, standout members were rewarded with both physical and digital prizes, editorial features, and opportunities to participate in special sweepstakes.
Why Is Microsoft Ending the Program?
Microsoft explained that the decision to phase out the Xbox Ambassadors program is based on the evolution of the Xbox brand over the past decade. The company expressed its gratitude to the dedicated members, stating that it had “learned so much from this passionate group.” However, it felt that the program no longer aligned with how the Xbox community has grown and adapted.
The company emphasized that players are now engaging with Xbox through other programs that also promote community values. These include Xbox Fanfest, the Xbox Insider Program, and Rewards with Xbox. As a result, Microsoft believes it is the right time to integrate the lessons from the Ambassadors program into these broader engagement efforts.
What Happens Next for Xbox Ambassadors?
As the program winds down, Microsoft has outlined a few key points for current Xbox Ambassadors:
- October 15 is the deadline for members to redeem any leftover codes or rewards.
- Weekly sweepstakes will be available for those looking to spend their remaining tickets before the program officially ends.
- Xbox Ambassador badges will receive a “special legacy design” as a nod to their contribution.
- Active members will receive a “special thank you” reward, which will be revealed on the rewards page.
Additionally, the company has hinted at new ways for fans to engage with Xbox in the future, including early access to new games and features, as well as opportunities to offer direct feedback.
Conclusion
The closure of the Xbox Ambassadors program marks the end of an era for many dedicated Xbox fans. While the program is coming to a close, Microsoft is shifting its focus to broader, more global initiatives that still reflect the community’s values of inclusivity and fun. For current Ambassadors, now is the time to redeem remaining rewards and enjoy the final sweepstakes before the program concludes on October 15.
In my opinion, while it’s sad to see such a long-running program end, it’s exciting to see how Microsoft is evolving its community efforts. The new, more global approach could offer even more opportunities for players to get involved and shape the future of gaming with Xbox.
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