Xbox Game Pass Gets Price Hikes, New 'Standard' Tier, and Ditches Console-Only Option
Starting July 10, 2024, Microsoft is making significant changes to Xbox Game Pass, including price increases for most tiers and the introduction of a new "Standard" option. The console-only Game Pass plan is also being phased out for new members.
Here's a breakdown of the changes:
- Price Increases:
- Xbox Game Pass Ultimate: $17 to $20 per month
- Xbox Game Pass Core (Annual): $60 to $75 per year
- PC Game Pass: $10 to $12 per month
- New Tier:
- Xbox Game Pass Standard: Priced at $14.99 per month (details to come).
- Game Pass for Console Discontinued: New subscriptions to the console-only plan will no longer be available. Existing members with automatic renewal can continue their memberships.
Important Dates:
- July 10, 2024: New prices for new members and discontinuation of Game Pass for Console for new members.
- September 12, 2024: Price increases take effect for existing members with recurring subscriptions.
- September 18, 2024: Maximum extension limit for subscriptions becomes 13 months.
Other Notes:
- Microsoft states these changes are necessary to reflect the value of the service.
- Existing members are encouraged to enable automatic renewal to keep their current pricing until September.
- Specific countries are exempt from these updates. More details are available from Microsoft.
These changes mark a significant shift in Xbox Game Pass's pricing structure, potentially impacting the service's accessibility and appeal to different types of gamers.