Annabelle Stephenson
Microsoft has recently implemented price hikes for its Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and has also introduced a new standard tier for consoles. The changes were confirmed by Microsoft in an official announcement.
The Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription for both PCs and consoles will now cost $19.99 per month, compared to the previous price of $16.99. Similarly, the subscription to Xbox PC Game Pass has been increased to $11.99 from $9.99.
In addition to the price increase, Microsoft has also unveiled a new Xbox Game Pass standard tier for consoles. This tier will be available for $14.99 per month but will not include access to day-one games.
Starting from July 10, 2024, new users will not be able to purchase Xbox Game Pass for the Console. Instead, they will have the option to subscribe to the new standard tier when it becomes available, which is expected to be launched in September 2024.
Existing users with recurring billing turned on will continue to pay the old prices until September 12, 2024.
While the price changes have been straightforward, there have been some concerns and confusion regarding the changes to the Game Pass benefits. It is essential for users who wish to play upcoming games, such as Call of Duty Black Ops 6, to maintain their recurring billing until the launch.
Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass offers a wide range of games and has gained popularity among gamers. These recent pricing adjustments and the introduction of a new standard tier aim to provide users with more options while ensuring the sustainability and growth of the service.
As always, feel free to share your thoughts on these price changes in the comments below.
Additional facts:
– The Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription includes access to Xbox Live Gold, which allows users to play multiplayer games online.
– Xbox Game Pass offers a library of over 100 games that can be downloaded and played on Xbox consoles, PCs, and mobile devices.
– Microsoft regularly adds new games to the Xbox Game Pass library, including titles from both first-party and third-party developers.
Important questions and answers:
1. What is the difference between the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and the standard tier?
– The Xbox Game Pass Ultimate includes access to both console and PC games, as well as Xbox Live Gold for multiplayer gaming. The standard tier, on the other hand, only offers access to console games and does not include Xbox Live Gold.
2. What is the significance of the price increases?
– The price increases reflect the growing value and popularity of the Xbox Game Pass service. They also help support continued investment in the platform and the addition of new games.
Key challenges or controversies:
1. Concerns regarding the removal of day-one game access from the standard tier.
– Some users may be disappointed by the removal of day-one game access in the new standard tier. This could impact the overall value proposition of the service for those who are primarily interested in playing the latest games.
Advantages:
– Access to a large library of games for a fixed monthly subscription fee.
– The inclusion of Xbox Live Gold with the Ultimate tier provides additional value for multiplayer gaming.
– Regular additions of new games to the library ensure a constantly updated selection of titles.
Disadvantages:
– The price increases may make the service less affordable for some users.
– The removal of day-one game access from the standard tier may be a drawback for those who want to play the latest games immediately.
Suggested related links:
– Xbox Game Pass Official Website
– Official Microsoft Announcement
