TITLE: Microsoft Raises Xbox Game Pass Prices Up to 50%
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Xbox Game Pass Price Increases Announced
Microsoft has announced significant price increases for its Xbox Game Pass subscription service, with some tiers seeing hikes of up to 50%. The changes affect multiple subscription levels and come alongside new partnership announcements that Microsoft says add value to the service.
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Substantial Price Jumps Across Key Tiers
The most dramatic increase affects Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which jumps from $19.99 to $29.99 per month in the United States—a 50% price increase. The PC Game Pass tier also sees a notable rise from $11.99 to $16.49 monthly. These changes represent some of the most substantial price adjustments since the service’s launch.
New Partnerships and Added Content
Microsoft is positioning these price increases alongside new content partnerships and additional benefits. The Ultimate tier now includes access to Ubisoft+ Classics and a new partnership with Epic Games that brings Fortnite Crew subscription benefits starting in November. According to Microsoft, these additions provide approximately $28 in monthly value through skins, digital currency, and access to classic Ubisoft titles.
However, as noted in the original coverage from eamvisiondirect.com, the perceived value of these digital additions may vary among subscribers. Many gamers may question whether these partnerships justify the substantial price increases, particularly for those who don’t regularly play Fortnite or have limited interest in older Ubisoft titles.
Other Tier Changes and Regional Impact
Other Game Pass tiers are undergoing changes as well:
- Game Pass Premium (formerly Standard) remains at $14.99 but expands to include PC access alongside console games
- Game Pass Essential (formerly Core) continues as the entry-level option for online multiplayer access
- International markets will see comparable price increases relative to local currencies
Subscriber Concerns and Practical Impacts
The timing of these price increases has drawn criticism from the gaming community, particularly given Microsoft’s recent studio acquisitions and developer layoffs. Many subscribers are reevaluating whether the service remains cost-effective, especially for those who primarily use Game Pass to sample new releases before purchasing.
Additional concerns include changes to Microsoft Rewards redemption, which no longer allows direct Game Pass subscription exchanges. Users must now purchase Xbox gift cards in $25 increments—creating an awkward situation given the new $30 monthly price for Ultimate.
These changes come as Microsoft continues to position Game Pass as the cornerstone of its gaming strategy, though the substantial price increases may test subscriber loyalty and the service’s reputation as gaming’s best value proposition.
