Microsoft Increases Prices for Xbox Game Pass and Introduces New Subscription Tier

by Annabelle Stephenson
in News, PC, Release, XBOX
on 10 July 2024

Microsoft has announced that it will be raising the price of Xbox Game Pass and introducing a new subscription tier that does not include day one releases. Starting on July 10th, the top-tier Xbox Game Pass Ultimate will increase in price to $19.99 per month. Additionally, PC Game Pass will also see a price increase to $11.99 per month. However, both subscriptions will include all current benefits.

In a significant move, Microsoft has decided to retire the Xbox Game Pass for Console tier for new users. Instead, it will be replaced with a new $14.99 “Standard” tier, which will provide access to a back catalog of games but will exclude day one releases and cloud gaming. This means that some games available on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate on day one will not immediately be available with the Standard tier. Microsoft has stated that these games may be added to the library at a later date.

Existing subscribers of Xbox Game Pass for Console will be able to keep their subscription and continue to have access to day one games. However, if their subscription lapses due to turning off automatic payment renewal, they will need to join one of the other plans to regain access.

Furthermore, Microsoft has announced that from September 12th, users will only be able to stack Xbox Game Pass for Console for up to 13 months. This change will not impact current subscribers.

Microsoft’s decision to increase the price of Game Pass for the second consecutive year comes after the company dismissed the possibility of raising prices following its merger with Activision Blizzard. The company claims that these price changes are made to offer players more choice in how they discover and play games.

As the gaming industry continues to evolve, Microsoft aims to provide players with various prices and plans that suit their preferences.

Additional Facts:
– Xbox Game Pass is a subscription service offered by Microsoft that provides access to a wide selection of games for Xbox consoles and PC.
– The service offers over 100 games that can be downloaded and played as long as the subscription is active.
– Microsoft launched Xbox Game Pass for Console in June 2017 and later expanded to include Xbox Game Pass for PC in June 2019.
– The Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription includes both console and PC access, Xbox Live Gold membership, and access to EA Play.
– The price increase for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate will be a $5 raise, up from the current $14.99 per month.
– The price increase for PC Game Pass will be $1, up from the current $10.99 per month.
– The new Standard tier will cost $14.99 per month and will be available for both console and PC users.

Key Questions and Answers:
1. What are the new price increases for Xbox Game Pass?
– The top-tier Xbox Game Pass Ultimate will increase to $19.99 per month, while PC Game Pass will increase to $11.99 per month.
2. What is the new subscription tier introduced by Microsoft?
– Microsoft is introducing a new $14.99 “Standard” tier that provides access to a back catalog of games but excludes day one releases and cloud gaming.
3. Will existing subscribers be affected by the changes?
– Existing subscribers of Xbox Game Pass for Console will be able to keep their subscription and continue to have access to day one games. However, if their subscription lapses, they will need to join one of the other plans to regain access.
4. How long can users stack Xbox Game Pass for Console?
– From September 12th, users will only be able to stack Xbox Game Pass for Console for up to 13 months, but this change will not impact current subscribers.

Key Challenges or Controversies:
1. Price increase for the second consecutive year: The price increase may result in backlash from subscribers who feel they are paying more for the service.
2. Exclusion of day one releases in Standard tier: Some users may be disappointed that they won’t have access to new games on the day of their release unless they opt for the more expensive Ultimate tier.
3. Limited stacking time for Xbox Game Pass for Console: The new limit of 13 months for stacking the subscription may inconvenience some users who prefer to extend their subscription in advance.

Advantages:
1. More choice for players: The introduction of a new subscription tier allows players to choose a plan that aligns with their preferences and budget.
2. Continued access for existing subscribers: Microsoft ensures that existing subscribers of Xbox Game Pass for Console can still enjoy day one releases without any interruption.

Disadvantages:
1. Price increase: The higher subscription costs may deter some users from subscribing to Xbox Game Pass or force them to reconsider their membership.
2. Exclusion of day one releases in Standard tier: Gamers who want to play new releases on the day of launch will need to upgrade to the more expensive Ultimate tier.