Microsoft is making some changes to Xbox Game Pass, and it’s not exactly good news. Prices are increasing for Game Pass Core, PC, and Ultimate. Meanwhile, the company is sunsetting Game Pass for Console and replacing it with a new Standard tier.
What are the new Xbox Game Pass prices?
Microsoft broke down the Game Pass price changes by region, with Ultimate increasing from $17 to $20 monthly in the US. Game Pass Core will stay $10 monthly, but the yearly subscription is rising from $60 to $75. Finally, PC-only subscribers will see their monthly fee increase from $10 to $12. The price changes go into effect immediately for new members, with the increase hitting existing members on September 12.
The Game Pass price increases aren’t the only bad news for subscribers. As of Wednesday, new users can no longer sign up for Game Pass Core Console. Existing subscribers who make automatic payments will keep the membership. However, if the subscription lapses at any point, users cannot renew it.
Users will still be able to redeem membership codes for Console. However, Xbox is limiting how much time users can stack on their accounts. Starting September 18, users can only have 13 months banked on ther account. “This will not impact any time you currently have stacked on your account that exceeds 13 months,” Microsoft clarified, “and will only impact your future ability to stack more than 13 months after September 18, 2024.”
Xbox is replacing Game Pass for Console with the new Standard membership. Game Pass Standard’s price will be $15 a month, though Microsoft hasn’t announced when it will be available. Xbox Game Pass Standard will give users access to hundreds of games, exclusive deals, and online Console multiplayer. However, it does not include day-one releases, Cloud Gaming, or EA Play.