Microsoft Announces Major Changes to Xbox Game Pass: Price Hikes, New Tiers, and Game Additions

Microsoft has announced several changes to Xbox Game Pass, including price adjustments for multiple tiers, the introduction of a new tier, and the discontinuation of another.

Starting June 10, Xbox Game Pass for Console will no longer be available to new members. However, existing subscribers will retain their access to Day One releases, including first-party Microsoft exclusives. New members can instead subscribe to Xbox Game Pass Standard for $15 per month, which will not include perks like Day One releases, EA Play access, Game Pass for PC, or cloud gaming.

The price of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate will increase from $17 per month to $20 per month, though its offerings will remain unchanged. The annual price for Xbox Game Pass Core will rise from $60 to $75, while the monthly fee will stay at $10. Additionally, the price for PC Game Pass will increase from $10 per month to $12 per month, but it will continue to include Day One releases. These price changes will take effect on September 12.

Xbox Game Pass for Console codes will remain redeemable until further notice. Starting September 18, users will be limited to stacking their subscriptions for up to 13 months, though this will not affect existing subscription stacks.

Microsoft has also revealed that the upcoming Call of Duty game, Black Ops 6, will be available on Game Pass on its release day without being restricted to a new tier. Existing Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers will be able to play it on release day through their subscription.

If you are not subscribed to Game Pass for Console and grandfathered in by June 10, you will need to be part of the Ultimate tier to access new releases like Black Ops 6 on launch day through the subscription.