Microsoft has announced some changes to its Xbox Game Pass service, including a price increase and updates to its offerings. The company confirmed a long-expected price hike to Xbox Game Pass, as well as changes to the basic Xbox console tier. If you want to avoid the price increases, it’s best to sign up quickly as they will take effect on Wednesday.
New members joining Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Xbox Game Pass Core, and PC Game Pass will be subject to the price changes. Additionally, Game Pass for Console will no longer be available for new members. Instead, a new tier called Game Pass Standard will be introduced with different benefits.
The price changes will go into effect worldwide for Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass, and 12-month subscriptions to Game Pass Core. New member prices will increase on July 10, while existing members will see their prices go up on September 12. For example, US subscribers to Game Pass Ultimate will now pay $20, up from $17, and US subscribers to Game Pass Core will pay $75 for a 12-month subscription, up from $60.
In addition to the price hikes, Microsoft is adding a new Game Pass option called Xbox Game Pass Standard, which will cost around $15 per month. This new plan will include hundreds of console games and also the benefits of the Game Pass Core plan, such as online console multiplayer and member deals and discounts. However, it will not include games released on day one.
Xbox Game Pass is a monthly subscription service that provides access to hundreds of games, including Day 1 launch games from Microsoft’s studios. CNET editors previously praised Xbox Game Pass Ultimate as “the best content deal in gaming,” highlighting its access to online multiplayer, console and PC game downloads, partnership with EA, and cloud-based game streaming service.
Overall, these changes to Xbox Game Pass aim to provide a better gaming experience for subscribers, with more options and benefits available at different price points. If you’re a fan of Xbox games, it might be worth considering these new offerings to enhance your gaming experience.
