Microsoft has announced a significant shift for Xbox Game Pass subscribers, effective December 2025. Several games, previously exclusive to the Game Pass Ultimate tier, will now be available on the more affordable Game Pass Premium tier. This change comes in response to a recent price increase for the Ultimate subscription.
Expanded Game Availability
The updated December 2025 lineup sees most games releasing on the Game Pass Premium and PC Game Pass. Titles such as Lost Records: Bloom & Rage and Monster Train 2 become available from December 2. Notably, Routine, a first-person sci-fi horror game, remains exclusive to Game Pass Ultimate, debuting as a Day One title on December 4.
- Microsoft shifts many exclusive games to Game Pass Premium.
- Only Routine remains exclusive to Game Pass Ultimate.
- Price restructuring accompanies this game redistribution.
- New pricing: Ultimate at $29.99, Premium at $14.99, Essential at $9.99, and PC Game Pass at $16.49.
Pricing changes
In tandem with these content adjustments, Game Pass has undergone a pricing overhaul. The Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription now costs $29.99 per month. Meanwhile, the Premium subscription stands at $14.99, and the Essential tier at $9.99. PC Game Pass is set at $16.49 monthly. These changes aim to provide more flexible and affordable access to a broad range of games.
Broader Access and Pricing Strategy
Microsoft's strategy focuses on providing wider access to popular games at various price points. Recent additions to the service include CloverPit, Marvel Cosmic Invasion, and other titles, lightening the financial load for subscribers by freeing previously Ultimate-exclusive games. Additionally, three games — Stellaris, World War Z: Aftermath, and Medieval Dynasty — are now available on the Essential tier.
This shift highlights Microsoft's ongoing commitment to adapt its Game Pass service to meet consumer needs, ensuring both affordability and a diverse library of gaming options.
