Microsoft is shaking up its Xbox Game Pass subscription service with significant changes set to take effect on September 12, 2024. The tech giant has announced price increases across all tiers of Game Pass, along with the introduction of a new, more affordable subscription option called Xbox Game Pass Standard.
Here’s a detailed look at what’s changing:
- Xbox Game Pass Ultimate: This premium plan will see a price increase from $16.99 to $19.99 per month. Ultimate subscribers will continue to enjoy day-one access to new Xbox Game Studios releases, cloud gaming, and a vast library of games for both Xbox consoles and PC.
- Xbox Game Pass Standard: Launching in the coming months, this new tier will replace the existing “Game Pass for Console” plan. At $14.99 per month, it will offer a wide selection of games for console players but will not include day-one releases or cloud gaming features.
- Xbox Game Pass Core: The most basic tier will remain at $9.99 per month, but the annual subscription fee will rise from $59.99 to $74.99. It provides access to online multiplayer and a smaller game catalog.
- PC Game Pass: The price will increase from $9.99 to $11.99 per month, while maintaining day-one access to new games and a full game catalog for PC players.
The current “Game Pass for Console” plan will no longer be available for new subscribers as of July 10, 2024. Existing subscribers can continue their plans until they choose to switch to a different tier.
For those looking for savings, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is currently on sale for $44 for a 3-month subscription at Amazon, down from $49.
These changes reflect Microsoft’s strategy to adjust pricing as they prepare for future game releases like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and adapt to the evolving gaming market.
