Xbox Game Pass Undergoes Significant Changes
Microsoft has announced substantial alterations to its Xbox Game Pass subscription service, impacting subscribers worldwide. Launched in 2017, Xbox Game Pass has garnered millions of users by offering access to a vast library of games across PC and Xbox consoles.
Speculation about major changes to the service intensified following Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard in 2023. The tech giant has now outlined specific adjustments to the subscription model.
Starting July 10, 2024, the price of Xbox Game Pass PC and Ultimate will increase in all regions. Existing subscribers will experience the price hike on September 12, 2024. Despite the price adjustments, the benefits included in each tier, such as EA Play access, remain unchanged. Xbox Game Pass PC monthly fees will rise from $9.99 to $11.99, while Xbox Game Pass Ultimate will increase from $16.99 to $19.99 per month. Xbox Game Pass Core, the entry-level subscription, will see its annual fee jump from $59.99 to $74.99, although the monthly cost stays at $9.99.
In addition to price hikes, Microsoft will phase out the Xbox Game Pass Console option on July 10, 2024. New subscriptions to this tier will no longer be available.