Xbox Game Pass Ultimate gets steep 50% hike as Microsoft reworks subscriptions

Microsoft has announced a significant 50% price increase for its Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, raising the monthly fee to $29.99 from the previous $19.99. This adjustment comes alongside a comprehensive rebranding of its Game Pass offerings, aiming to enhance the user experience. In a bold move, the tech giant promises to deliver an impressive lineup of 75 day-one game releases annually. Gamers can look forward to highly anticipated titles such as Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, High on Life 2, Keeper, Ninja Gaiden 4, and The Outer Worlds 2. In a recent blog post, Microsoft explained, "Ultimate has been upgraded for players who want the best of everything. We’re rolling out our most expansive upgrade yet, including more day-one games than ever before, enhanced Xbox Cloud Gaming streaming quality up to 1440p, and new additions like Fortnite Crew and Ubisoft+ Classics. Now players can have it all." Additionally, Microsoft is discontinuing the PC Game Pass, while rebranding its existing plans. The Game Pass Core plan will now be known as Game Pass Essential, maintaining its $10 monthly price. This plan includes access to unlimited cloud gaming, online multiplayer, in-game benefits, and a catalog of over 50 games playable on both console and PC. The Game Pass Premium plan, priced at $15 per month, continues to offer a robust selection of over 200 games across Xbox consoles, PCs, and other supported devices. Subscribers to Game Pass Premium will also receive in-game bonuses for popular titles like League of Legends, Call of Duty: Warzone, and Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege X, along with new Xbox-published games within a year of their release, excluding Call of Duty titles. As Microsoft continues to evolve the Xbox Game Pass, the company remains committed to providing more value and diverse gaming options across all subscription plans. Whether players engage on console, PC, or through the cloud, there is now a tailored Game Pass option designed to suit every gaming style.