PC Game Pass subscribers will see a price hike starting September 12, as Microsoft adjusts its subscription services to adapt to market changes. This means the monthly subscription fee will increase from $9.99 to $10.99 for PC Game Pass users.
Changes for Console Users
However, the changes are more complex for console users. Microsoft is introducing a new tier called Xbox Game Pass Standard, which will no longer offer day one access to first-party Microsoft releases. This tier will cost $9.99 per month, slightly cheaper than Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which currently provides access to first-party games on day one and cloud streaming services, will also see a price increase from $14.99 to $16.99 per month starting in September.
It seems that Microsoft is gearing up to maximize profits ahead of the release of Black Ops 6, which will be available on day one with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate but not with Xbox Game Pass Standard. This means users will have to pay $7 more per month for access to day one games.
PC Game Pass Price Changes by Region
- USA: $9.99 | $10.99
- Canada: CAD 11.99 | CAD 12.99
- United Kingdom: £7.99 | £9.99
- Australia: AUD 10.95 | AUD 11.95
Existing subscribers of Xbox Game Pass for Console at $9.99 per month will not be affected by the price increase. However, once you cancel your subscription, you will not be able to re-subscribe at the same rate.
While PC Game Pass remains a good value even after the price increase, the changes to Xbox Game Pass may make it less accessible for console users. It follows the trend of internet-based subscription services starting strong before becoming more practical over time.
