Arthur Herring
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers can expect a price increase starting in September, according to recent reports. While Microsoft has yet to make an official announcement, emails sent to some subscribers outside of the United States indicate that the subscription cost will be going up. Screenshots of the emails shared on social media show price increases in countries such as Canada, where the monthly fee will go from $18.99 to $22.99.
The price increase for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate appears to be part of a larger series of changes coming to the service on September 12, 2024. Windows Central has reportedly received confirmation from Microsoft about the upcoming pricing adjustments, which include a rise to $19.99/month in the United States (up from $16.99/month). PC Game Pass will also see a bump from $9.99/month to $11.99/month.
It’s worth noting that Xbox Game Pass Core, which offers online multiplayer and a limited selection of games, will see a yearly price increase to $74.99 from $59.99, while the monthly subscription price will remain unchanged at $9.99. Furthermore, Xbox Game Pass for Console will no longer accept new users, with new subscribers being directed to Xbox Game Pass “Standard” at a price of $14.99/month in the United States. This version of the service includes access to back catalog games and multiplayer, but does not offer day-one game releases or Xbox Cloud gaming.
These changes will impact all markets globally and will go into effect on September 12, 2024. More detailed pricing information for different regions is expected to be released soon.
This price increase comes just a year after Xbox raised prices on Game Pass, increasing the cost of the “Ultimate” tier from $14.99/month to $16.99/month. Rumors of another potential increase had been circulating since May, especially given the recent acquisition of Activision Blizzard by Xbox and the speculation of day-one releases for future Call of Duty games.
IGN has reached out to Xbox for comment, but no response has been provided. Stay tuned for further updates on Xbox Game Pass pricing.
Additional facts:
– Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is a subscription service that offers access to a library of games for Xbox consoles, PCs, and mobile devices.
– The service includes benefits such as online multiplayer, exclusive discounts on games, and access to Xbox Cloud gaming.
– Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is available in multiple regions around the world.
– Microsoft regularly adds new games to the Xbox Game Pass library and removes older titles.
– Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers can download and play games from the library as long as they maintain an active subscription.
Important questions and answers:
1. Why is Xbox Game Pass Ultimate increasing its prices?
– The reason for the price increase has not been officially announced. However, it is common for subscription services to adjust their prices over time to account for factors such as content additions, operational costs, and market trends.
2. What are the new prices for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate?
– The exact pricing details for different regions have not been provided in the article. However, based on the information shared, the monthly fee in Canada will go from $18.99 to $22.99, and in the United States, it will rise to $19.99/month from $16.99/month.
Key challenges or controversies:
1. Affordability for subscribers: Subscribers may be concerned about the frequent price increases, as it can make the service less affordable over time.
2. Value for money: Some users may question whether the added benefits and game library expansions justify the price increases.
3. Competition with other gaming services: With the growing popularity of gaming subscription services, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate faces competition from platforms like PlayStation Plus and Nintendo Switch Online.
Advantages:
1. Extensive game library: Xbox Game Pass Ultimate offers a wide range of games that subscribers can access and play without the need for individual game purchases.
2. Multiplatform availability: Subscribers can enjoy the service not only on Xbox consoles but also on PCs and mobile devices, providing flexibility in how and where they play.
3. Additional benefits: Xbox Game Pass Ultimate includes online multiplayer, exclusive discounts, and access to Xbox Cloud gaming, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
Disadvantages:
1. Price increases: The frequent price increases can make the service less affordable for some subscribers, especially if they are not fully utilizing the benefits and game library.
2. Limited availability: The article mentions that Xbox Game Pass for Console will no longer accept new users, directing them to Xbox Game Pass “Standard.” This change may limit the options for new subscribers who specifically want console gaming access.
Related links:
– Xbox Game Pass
– Windows Central – Xbox Game Pass news
