Microsoft has recently announced a series of adjustments to its Xbox Game Pass subscription service, including price increases and the introduction of a new tier. These changes are part of Xbox's broader strategy to enhance the Game Pass experience and reach a wider audience. Let's delve into the specifics of these updates and explore Xbox's vision for the future of gaming.
Related Video
Microsoft is RAISING Xbox Game Pass' Pricing
Game Pass Prices Increased and New Subscription Tier Announced --------------------------------------------------------------Starts July 10 for New Game Pass Members, September 12 for Existing Ones
Xbox has announced price increases for its Game Pass subscription service, effective from July 10, 2024, for new members and September 12, 2024, for existing subscribers. The changes affect Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass, and Game Pass Core. Here are the detailed adjustments:
- Xbox Game Pass Ultimate: The premium tier, offering PC Game Pass, Day One games, a back catalog of titles, online play, and cloud gaming, will rise from $16.99 to $19.99 per month.
- PC Game Pass: This tier will increase from $9.99 to $11.99 monthly, maintaining all current features, including Day One releases, membership discounts, a comprehensive PC game catalog, and EA Play membership.
- Game Pass Core: The annual subscription will jump from $59.99 to $74.99, with the monthly rate staying at $9.99.
- Xbox Game Pass for Console: As of July 10, 2024, this option will no longer be available for new members. Current subscribers can continue their membership without interruption, provided it does not lapse. Once lapsed, they must choose from the updated plans. Xbox Game Pass for Console codes will remain redeemable until further notice, with a maximum extension limit of 13 months after September 18, 2024.
Rolling Out Xbox Game Pass Standard Soon
In addition to the price adjustments, Microsoft is introducing a new tier called Xbox Game Pass Standard, priced at $14.99 per month. This tier will offer access to a back catalog of games and online play but will exclude Day One games and cloud gaming. Day One games are titles available on Game Pass from the day they launch. The Standard tier will include numerous games, online console multiplayer, and select member deals and discounts, though some titles exclusive to Game Pass for Console may not be available. More details on the release date and availability of Xbox Game Pass Standard are expected soon.
"We created Game Pass to offer players more choice in how they discover and play games," Microsoft stated, emphasizing their commitment to providing various pricing and plans to suit different player needs.
Xbox Execs Previous Comments on Game Pass
In a presentation last December, Xbox CEO Phil Spencer highlighted the company's ongoing investments in Game Pass and other services like Xbox Cloud Gaming and cross-play, underscoring their dedication to enhancing the gaming experience for console users. Xbox CFO Tim Stuart, speaking at the Wells Fargo TMT Summit 2023, also noted that Game Pass, alongside first-party games and advertising, is a high-margin business for Microsoft, driving their expansion in these areas.
You Don't Need an Xbox to Play Xbox
In a related development, Xbox has launched a new ad campaign showcasing the availability of Xbox Game Pass on Amazon Fire Sticks. This initiative emphasizes that you don't need an Xbox console to enjoy their games; a simple subscription to Game Pass Ultimate and an Amazon Fire TV Stick allow access to a vast library of games, including Forza Motorsport, Starfield, and Palworld.Xbox's strategy moving forward, as articulated by Phil Spencer, is to continue expanding the Game Pass catalog with major titles and to enable customers to play their favorite games across various platforms. "What we want to offer is choice," Spencer stated, affirming that Xbox's success is measured by increased player engagement across consoles, PCs, cloud services, and other platforms.
Xbox's strategy does not hinge on going all-digital
Addressing concerns about moving away from hardware, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella confirmed earlier this year that the company has no plans to abandon its hardware business and sees room for further expansion. Xbox has also committed to continuing to offer physical game copies as long as there is demand. In an internal town hall, Spencer reassured employees that Xbox will not stop producing consoles, acknowledging the unique position of gaming consoles as the "last consumer electronic device that has a drive." Despite the challenges associated with physical media, Spencer emphasized that Xbox's strategy is not focused on becoming an all-digital platform. "Getting rid of physical, that's not a strategic thing for us," he stated, reinforcing Xbox's commitment to providing diverse gaming options.
