Microsoft has officially unveiled a series of sweeping changes to its Xbox Game Pass subscription service. These updates, which include price increases and the removal of day-one releases for its basic tier, come as part of the company’s strategic preparation for the highly anticipated October launch of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6.
Xbox Game Pass for Console Discontinuation
According to Windows Central, one of the most notable changes is the imminent closure of the $10.99/month Xbox Game Pass for Console. This service will continue to be available to existing subscribers until their current subscriptions expire. However, starting from 12th September, users will only be allowed to stack Game Pass for Console for up to 13 months.
For new users looking for a basic tier package, Microsoft is launching the Xbox Game Pass Standard in September. Priced at $14.99/month, this new tier includes Xbox Live Gold for multiplayer gaming and access to Xbox’s extensive back catalogue. However, it does not include access to first-party releases on day one. This means that console players wanting to enjoy Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 via Game Pass upon its release on 25th October will need to subscribe to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
Price Increase for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
The Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is also undergoing a price hike. The cost of this premium tier, which will continue to be the only subscription offering access to Xbox Cloud Gaming, is rising from $16.99 to $19.99 per month. This adjustment reflects the added value and content available through the Ultimate tier, which remains the preferred choice for gamers seeking comprehensive access to Xbox’s library, including day-one releases and cloud gaming capabilities.
PC Game Pass Price Adjustment
The price of the PC Game Pass is increasing from $9.99/month to $11.99/month. However, it is important to note that PC Game Pass will continue to offer day-one access to games, maintaining its appeal to the PC gaming community.
Xbox Game Pass Core Price Increase
In addition to these adjustments, Xbox Game Pass Core (formerly Xbox Live Gold) will see an increase in its annual cost from $59.99 to $74.99. The monthly subscription price remains unchanged at $9.99. These pricing updates will take effect starting 12th September, as confirmed by Windows Central.
Impact of Activision Blizzard Acquisition
These changes follow Microsoft’s monumental $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard last year. This acquisition has significantly influenced Microsoft’s strategic decisions, including the adjustments to the Xbox Game Pass service. Notably, Microsoft had confirmed in May that Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 would be a day-one Game Pass release when it launches in October. Despite the recent changes, this commitment holds true for subscribers of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass, and Xbox Game Pass for Console.