Xbox Game Pass Unveils Major Pricing and Tier Adjustments
In a significant overhaul of its subscription framework, Microsoft has announced notable adjustments to the Xbox Game Pass service, affecting both pricing and available tiers. This move marks a pivotal change for subscribers and potential members, signaling Microsoft’s ongoing strategy to refine and expand its gaming subscription model.
Effective from July 10, the cost of joining the Xbox Game Pass service has seen an upward revision across its various tiers for all new subscribers. The most comprehensive package offered, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which bundles together PC Game Pass, EA Play, and additional perks, now commands a monthly fee of $19.99 / £14.99, up from its previous rate of $16.99 / £12.99. For those already subscribed under a recurring payment system, these adjusted rates will start from September 12, with Microsoft urging users to consult the Xbox support page for more nuanced details.
The annual subscription model designated as Xbox Game Pass Core, offering the fundamental game library with added online gameplay capabilities, has also undergone a price revision. Previously pegged at $59.99 / £49.99, it now stands at $74.99 / £55.99 for a 12-month commitment. Despite this hike, the monthly subscription cost for the Core tier appears to remain stable. Interested parties can delve into a country-specific breakdown of these adjustments, including alterations to PC Game Pass pricing, via Microsoft’s formal documentation.
In parallel developments, Windows Central has highlighted the phase-out of Xbox Game Pass for Console for prospective subscribers, while assuring uninterrupted service for existing members. Set to replace it is the upcoming Xbox Game Pass ‘Standard’ tier, expected to launch in the near future. At a monthly rate of $14.99 (approximately £12.99), this new tier aims to bridge the gap between the Core and Ultimate offerings, albeit with a catch – certain day-one titles accessible through Xbox Game Pass Ultimate might not be immediately available on the Standard plan, with the possibility of being added later down the line.
Microsoft sheds light on this strategic move, indicating, “Some games available with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate on day one will not be immediately available with Xbox Game Pass Standard and may be added to the library at a future date.” This nuanced approach suggests a tiered access model that could influence gaming habits and subscription choices among the platform’s user base.
These developments reflect Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to refine its Xbox Game Pass offering, adjusting to the evolving landscape of digital gaming subscriptions while aiming to cater to a diverse audience of gamers worldwide. As the service continues to evolve, these changes herald a new phase for Xbox Game Pass, signifying both its growth and its challenges in a competitive market.
