Microsoft hikes Xbox Game Pass prices up to a staggering 50%

TITLE: Microsoft Increases Xbox Game Pass Prices Up to 50%

Xbox Game Pass Price Changes Announced

Microsoft has announced significant price increases for its Xbox Game Pass subscription services, with some tiers seeing hikes of up to 50%. The changes affect multiple subscription levels and come alongside new partnership announcements that Microsoft says add value to the service.

Major Price Increases for Premium Tiers

The most substantial change affects Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which jumps from $19.99 to $29.99 per month – a 50% increase. This premium tier includes access to hundreds of games across Xbox and PC platforms, with streaming capabilities and the ability to switch between devices.

Microsoft is positioning these price increases alongside new content partnerships, including access to Ubisoft+ classics and a new collaboration with Epic Games. Starting in November, Ultimate subscribers will receive Fortnite Crew benefits, including exclusive skins and in-game currency valued at approximately $16 monthly.

PC Game Pass Also Sees Significant Hike

The PC-only Game Pass tier increases from $11.99 to $16.49 monthly, representing a 37.5% price jump. This version provides access to the full PC game library and streaming capabilities but notably excludes the Ubisoft Classics collection being added to the Ultimate tier.

Microsoft highlights that recent additions to the service include major titles like Hogwarts Legacy, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, Diablo IV, and Cities: Skylines Remastered as part of the value proposition.

Other Tier Adjustments and Renaming

Other subscription levels see less dramatic changes:

  • Game Pass Premium (formerly Standard) remains at $14.99 with expanded PC access
  • Game Pass Essential (formerly Core) continues as the entry-level option for online multiplayer
  • All tiers now include broader platform access and streaming capabilities

Consumer Impact and Industry Context

The price increases come amid broader industry trends of subscription service adjustments. As reported by industry analysts, these changes reflect Microsoft’s evolving strategy for its gaming services division. The timing coincides with Microsoft’s ongoing studio acquisitions and organizational changes within its gaming division.

Additionally, Microsoft has altered its Rewards program, requiring users to purchase Xbox gift cards in $25 increments rather than directly exchanging points for subscriptions – creating an awkward gap with the new $30 Ultimate pricing.

These substantial price adjustments mark a significant shift in Microsoft’s approach to its gaming subscription ecosystem, potentially changing how consumers evaluate the value proposition of game pass services moving forward.

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