Microsoft Announces Xbox Game Pass Price Increase and New Standard Tier

Microsoft is shaking up its Xbox Game Pass offerings with a price hike and the introduction of a new subscription tier. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Price Increase

Starting in September, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers will see their monthly fee rise from $16.99 to $19.99. This $3 increase aims to offset the cost of adding high-profile titles like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 to the service.

2. PC Game Pass Price Adjustment

PC Game Pass subscribers won’t be left out—their monthly subscription will increase from $9.99 to $11.99. However, they’ll continue to enjoy day-one access to new titles.

3. Introducing Xbox Game Pass Standard

Microsoft is rolling out a new subscription option called Xbox Game Pass Standard. Priced at $14.99 per month, this tier won’t include day-one games but will grant access to the extensive back catalog, similar to EA Access. Notably, it also includes Xbox Live Gold for multiplayer.

4. Console Subscribers’ Options

Existing Xbox Game Pass for console subscribers can breathe easy—their subscription remains unchanged. However, new Game Pass subscribers won’t have the console option until the Xbox Game Pass Standard becomes available.

5. Online Console Multiplayer Access

The Xbox Game Pass Standard includes online console multiplayer access, addressing a previous limitation of the console-specific subscription.

6. Stacking Limitations

Starting September 18th, existing console subscribers can stack their subscriptions for up to 13 months. New stacks won’t be affected by this change.