When something appears too good to be true, more often than not, it indeed comes with a catch. This sentiment resonated with many when Microsoft introduced its Xbox Game Pass, especially during the launch of the Xbox Series X/S. The deal was tantalizing—a vast library of games, including those from Microsoft available on release day, all for just ten bucks a month.
As time has passed, the cost has inevitably crept up, which isn’t entirely surprising given the global financial turbulence post-pandemic. By 2023, Game Pass for console nudged up to $11, while the Ultimate version, providing access to both console and PC games, saw a two-dollar increase to $16.99. Despite grumblings about the hike coinciding with Microsoft’s staggering $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard, this was actually slightly below the inflation rate.
Then, along came 2024, bringing with it a less welcome surprise. In July, there was news that Game Pass Ultimate would leap from $17 to $20—a substantial 18% bump, which is notably above inflation. But it didn’t stop there; Microsoft also axed the more budget-friendly $11 console-only tier. In its place came the Game Pass Standard, stripped of day-one game launches and priced at $15. Yes, that’s almost a 50% price hike for a less appealing package.
This essentially meant that for those relying on Game Pass to access the complete library and enjoy new Microsoft games as they dropped, their monthly cost shot up from $11 to $20. With the blockbuster Activision Blizzard deal finalized, it felt like this was a contributing factor.
By 2024, Game Pass had shifted from being an outstanding value to something that customers might begrudge paying—an eye-watering $240 annually, with no relief through annual discounts. Not the greatest outcome, to say the least. – John Walker
