Microsoft Raises Game Pass Prices; Folds Core Into Essential

Microsoft overhauled Xbox Game Pass into three tiers — Essential ($9.99), Premium ($14.99) and Ultimate ($29.99) — folding Game Pass Core into Essential and migrating Standard subscribers to Premium. Game Pass Ultimate rose 50%, from $19.99 to $29.99 (about $360/year), and PC-only plans have also increased (reports vary on new monthly pricing). Microsoft says the revamp adds 400+ games, more than 75 day-one releases per year for Ultimate, bundled services such as Fortnite Crew and Ubisoft+ Classics, improved cloud streaming (up to 1440p for select titles), and an enhanced Rewards program that can earn subscribers up to $100/year. The changes have provoked gamer backlash, subscription cancellations, and concerns that the steep price rise could push players to buy games outright or switch to competitors. The moves follow recent Xbox console price increases and come despite Microsoft reporting record Game Pass revenue, prompting questions about the service's long-term subscriber resilience.