Microsoft doesn’t seem to be doing itself any favours in 2025. After multiple waves of layoffs, drastic changes to the Microsoft Rewards system and several cancellations of large upcoming projects, we have some very sour news. It has been announced today that there will be lots of changes to Xbox Game Pass, with a gigantic price rise of 50% to the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate tier.
Yes, you read that correctly. If you want the all-singing and all-dancing subscription on Xbox Game Pass, then you’ll be expected to shell out £23/$30 a month. As you can probably imagine, this isn’t going down well within the Xbox community, and many, including myself, are questioning whether the price rise is worth it and justified.
What Are The New Structures?
Essential – The entry‑level tier, replacing Game Pass Core. It offers a curated library of 50+ titles across console and PC, online multiplayer, unlimited cloud gaming, and in‑game perks. Standout inclusions are Hades, Cities: Skylines Remastered, Stardew Valley, and Warhammer 40,000: Darktide
Premium – The middle tier, replacing the old “Standard” plan. It expands the library to 200+ games across console, PC, and cloud, including blockbuster titles like Diablo IV and Hogwarts Legacy. Premium also guarantees access to new Xbox‑published games within a year of launch (with the notable exclusion of Call of Duty).
Ultimate – The flagship tier, retaining its name but receiving the most dramatic upgrade. Ultimate now includes over 75 day‑one releases annually, Ubisoft+ Classics, and even Fortnite Crew (an $11.99/month value on its own). Cloud gaming has been upgraded to stream at up to 1440p, and subscribers gain access to enhanced Rewards with Xbox, offering up to $100 per year in Store credit just for playing.
So, What Are We Actually Getting For The Extra 50% Rise?
Fortnite Crew will be included from November, which here in the UK is £9.99 per month. Personally, I buy this for my seven-year-old son, but for millions out there, this will be of no interest. Ubisoft Classics will add a small catalogue of older titles, which again, may not appeal to most and most of their games can be purchased for a few quid in sales every other week anyway. There is also the promise of better quality streaming and shorter wait times with Xbox Cloud Gaming, finally leaving its Beta status. Day One Access remains with over 75 new launches each year, which equates to just over 6 games per month. But how many of those will be indies rather than triple-A releases? Also, there are more MS reward points on offer in comparison to the lower tiers.
Final Thoughts
Don’t get me wrong, we all know that Xbox Game Pass has always clearly represented good value for money, especially with its Day One on Game Pass ethos. But I think such a huge rise is a step too far, in my opinion. Microsoft appear to be swaying towards corporate greed instead of trying to keep players engaged and invested. Whilst the lower two tiers still seem to be enticing, it could be a stretch for many to justify the extra £8 a month on top of what they were paying. Some may sway to lower tiers, whilst more may consider cancelling altogether. This isn’t the first time we have seen price rises met with anger. Xbox has taken a backstep before; will they this time? I don’t think they will.
Glad I’ve just gone back to PC. Had an Xbox since the original launched in 2001, Xbox live then on to Gamepass ultimate for last 3yrs but this is too much to pay. Now enjoying playing for free on PC.
Makes sense mate, play where you are happiest and within your personal budget, thanks for reading bro
I thought the Ultimate pass represented good value for £14.99 a month and have had that subscription for years, but I don’t think it’s worth it for another £8. That represents a 53% increase of the original price and is far too high in my opinion. I get that things have to go up in price from time to time, we’re all paying more for groceries, fuel, energy etc. My next payment for the ultimate game pass is the end of Oct, I presume they’re putting their prices up in Nov, so I’ll let the next payment clear and then cancel. I’ll go back to buying things in the sales or from one of the many licence key sites.
Totally agree with what you have said there. It is a huge percentage increase. I think people wouldn’t have minded a quid or two, but eight is a big push per month! £96 extra per year, which is almost the cost of 2 full priced games