The cost of enjoying Xbox Game Pass has significantly changed in 2025. As Microsoft expands its gaming services and catalogue, players around the world are beginning to feel the impact of revised pricing structures.
For many, the crucial question is when does the Xbox Game Pass price increase roll out globally? This blog explores the latest developments, what to expect depending on where you live, and whether the new offerings justify the higher subscription fees.
What Is The New Xbox Game Pass Pricing In 2025?
In 2025, Microsoft implemented one of its most significant changes to the Xbox Game Pass subscription model since its launch. The most notable adjustment was to the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate tier, which saw a sharp monthly price increase from $19.99 to $29.99 in the United States and from £14.99 to £22.99 in the United Kingdom.
This adjustment, according to Microsoft, reflects new inclusions and service upgrades designed to add more value to subscribers. Other tiers, including Xbox Game Pass for PC and the Standard tier, also saw pricing changes, though less severe than Ultimate.
Here’s a summary of the updated Game Pass prices in key regions:
| Subscription Tier | Previous Price (UK) | New Price (UK) | Previous Price (US) | New Price (US) |
| Xbox Game Pass Ultimate | £14.99 | £22.99 | $19.99 | $29.99 |
| Game Pass for PC | £7.99 | £9.99 | $9.99 | $11.99 |
| Game Pass Core | £6.99 | £6.99 | $9.99 | $9.99 |
Microsoft has positioned the pricing adjustments as a response to the expanding features and partner integrations now included in the service.
When Did The Price Increase Begin For New Subscribers?
The revised Game Pass pricing took effect for new subscribers globally starting from 1 October 2025. This date applied across all major territories, including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, and parts of Europe and Asia.
New users who signed up after this date were immediately subject to the new pricing structure, without any introductory offers or exemptions. There were no grace periods, and Microsoft did not offer transitional pricing for newcomers.
Some users managed to delay the new pricing by redeeming prepaid Game Pass codes before the implementation date. These prepaid periods continued at the previous rate until they expired.
When Did The Xbox Game Pass Price Increase Apply To Existing Subscribers?
For existing Xbox Game Pass subscribers in the UK and US, the revised pricing began on 4 November 2025. This change aligned with Microsoft’s billing cycle, meaning subscribers with auto-renewal enabled would begin seeing the updated rate from that date forward.
Microsoft maintained that subscribers would not be charged the new rate until their current billing period ended. Therefore, those who renewed before 4 November continued at the original price until their next scheduled renewal.
The timing of this change was communicated directly through Xbox accounts and email notifications. Those who had stacked subscriptions with older pricing continued benefiting from the old rate until their stacked term ended.
Why Was The Price Increase Delayed In Some Countries?
While the pricing update was implemented in most countries, Microsoft delayed the price increase in several key territories, including:
- Germany
- Ireland
- South Korea
- Poland
- India
The company cited compliance with local laws and regulatory requirements as the reason for this delay. In these regions, subscription service providers must give customers a specified notice period, often up to 60 days, before any price increase is applied.
Microsoft confirmed that subscribers in these countries would receive direct notification before any changes are enforced. For now, their subscriptions will continue to renew at the previous rates, provided auto-renew is enabled.
If users in those countries cancel their current subscriptions and resubscribe later, they will be charged the new rate immediately. Microsoft emphasized that this delay is temporary and should not be interpreted as a permanent exemption.
What Benefits Are Included In The New Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Pricing?
Microsoft’s justification for the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate price increase lies in the expanded scope of benefits introduced throughout 2025. The company has made strategic partnerships and technological upgrades to enhance both the quantity and quality of gaming experiences.
Expanded Day-One Game Releases
One of the standout upgrades in 2025 is the significant boost in the number of day-one titles available to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members. Previously, subscribers could expect around 30 to 40 new games annually; that number has now grown to more than 75.
These include major AAA blockbusters from Xbox Game Studios, Bethesda, and Activision Blizzard, as well as independent titles. Games such as Fable Reimagined, Avowed, and Call of Duty 2026 (Day One Access) are examples of titles expected to feature prominently.
This move positions Game Pass as an indispensable platform for players who want immediate access to high-profile releases without paying full retail prices.
Integration Of Fortnite Crew Membership
Another major addition to the Game Pass Ultimate tier is the inclusion of Fortnite Crew.
This integration gives subscribers automatic access to monthly in-game rewards and benefits, including:
- 1,000 V-Bucks per month
- Exclusive Fortnite Crew skins and cosmetics
- Access to the latest season’s Battle Pass
By merging Game Pass Ultimate with Fortnite Crew, Microsoft has expanded the subscription’s reach beyond traditional Xbox titles, tapping into one of the world’s most popular free-to-play ecosystems.
Addition Of Ubisoft+ Classics
The inclusion of Ubisoft+ Classics has also elevated the appeal of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
Subscribers now enjoy access to a rotating library of popular Ubisoft titles, such as:
- Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
- Far Cry 6
- Watch Dogs: Legion
- Riders Republic
This integration aligns Game Pass more closely with rival platforms like PlayStation Plus Extra, which already includes Ubisoft+ Classics in its catalogue. The partnership brings additional value, particularly for players who enjoy action-adventure and open-world titles.
Enhanced Xbox Cloud Gaming Performance
Cloud gaming has become a major focus of Microsoft’s gaming strategy, and the company has significantly improved Xbox Cloud Gaming (xCloud) for Ultimate subscribers.
The service now offers:
- 4K resolution streaming for supported devices
- Reduced latency across networks
- Enhanced compatibility with mobile and smart TV platforms
Subscribers can now stream Game Pass titles without downloading them, with smoother performance even on lower-end devices. Microsoft’s cloud servers are also being integrated with AI-based optimisation to ensure consistent frame rates and responsiveness.
Increased Value Through Service Upgrades
Collectively, these enhancements are designed to justify the 50% rise in monthly fees. Microsoft has also introduced periodic member-only promotions and trials for partner services such as Ubisoft Connect, EA Play Premium, and PC Game Pass cross-access.
Although the value proposition has grown, some users still question whether these upgrades warrant the new cost, especially for casual gamers who may not fully utilise all the added benefits.
How Are Fans Reacting To The Xbox Game Pass Price Increase?
The response to the Xbox Game Pass price increase has been mixed, with a considerable segment of the gaming community expressing frustration.
An IGN poll conducted shortly after the announcement, with over 41,000 participants, showed the following:
| Response | Percentage |
| Will not subscribe anymore | 53.9% |
| Will continue with Ultimate | 19.9% |
| Will downgrade or reconsider | 26.2% |
The results show a clear divide in sentiment. Many long-time subscribers feel the 50% price hike is disproportionate, especially if they do not take full advantage of the expanded catalogue. Others, particularly those who frequently play new releases, find the added content worthwhile.
Discussions across social media, forums, and gaming communities reflect growing concern about the future affordability of gaming subscriptions, especially as other services like PlayStation Plus and Nintendo Switch Online remain more moderately priced.
Will The Xbox Game Pass Price Increase Affect Everyone Eventually?
Microsoft has stated that existing subscribers in select countries will continue to be charged the original price for now, in line with local regulatory requirements. However, the company also made it clear that this is not a permanent status.
The statement, which included the phrase “for now,” suggests that all markets will eventually transition to the new pricing. Microsoft’s approach appears to be focused on compliance and timing rather than exemption.
Subscribers in countries where the increase is delayed should expect to receive at least 60 days’ notice before the pricing update applies. This policy aligns with European consumer protection standards.
Ultimately, it is expected that Xbox Game Pass pricing will be standardised across all active regions once regulatory obligations are fulfilled.
What Other Changes Has Microsoft Made To Xbox Subscriptions?
The Xbox Game Pass price increase was not implemented in isolation. Microsoft has been reshaping its broader subscription ecosystem to better align with its strategic goals. These adjustments impact not only pricing but also user benefits, hardware, and the overall value perception of the Xbox brand.
Removal Of DLC Discounts
One of the more controversial changes has been the removal of DLC discounts for Xbox Game Pass subscribers. Previously, Ultimate members enjoyed up to 20% off downloadable content and add-ons for owned titles. This benefit has now been phased out globally.
Microsoft stated that the decision was part of a restructuring of digital store policies to standardise discounts across platforms. However, many subscribers viewed it as a reduction in value, particularly as DLCs and expansions often add significant playtime to base games.
Introduction Of Enhanced Microsoft Rewards
To counterbalance the removal of DLC discounts, Microsoft expanded its Microsoft Rewards programme for Game Pass users. The company has increased the number of points players can earn through daily and weekly challenges, game achievements, and consistent engagement with the Game Pass library.
These points can be redeemed for:
- Xbox gift cards
- Store credits
- Digital games
- Monthly Game Pass extensions
This shift aims to promote consistent platform engagement and reward user loyalty. It also gives players a way to partially offset the cost of their subscription through active participation.
Adjustments To Hardware And Accessory Pricing
In addition to software-related changes, Microsoft has revised pricing for several of its hardware products. The company attributed this to shifts in the global economic environment and manufacturing costs.
Recent hardware price changes include:
| Product | Old Price (US) | New Price (US) | Old Price (UK) | New Price (UK) |
| Xbox Series X | $499.99 | $549.99 | £479.99 | £519.99 |
| ROG Xbox Ally Handheld | $599.99 | $649.99 | £549.99 | £599.99 |
| ROG Xbox Ally X Handheld | $999.99 | $1,049.99 | £929.99 | £979.99 |
While these increases may appear modest compared to the Game Pass price jump, they reflect a larger corporate strategy focused on premium positioning and profitability across the Xbox ecosystem.
Reduction Of Peripheral Bundles
Microsoft also streamlined the availability of discounted peripheral bundles, such as controller-and-console packages and limited-edition accessories. The company has stated that future bundles will focus more on collector’s editions and themed releases rather than broad discounts.
This approach suggests a shift from affordability-driven marketing toward premium experiences and exclusivity. It may appeal to dedicated fans but potentially alienates budget-conscious consumers.
Broader Shift Toward A Premium Ecosystem
The combination of software and hardware adjustments illustrates Microsoft’s long-term plan to transition Xbox from a traditional console-based business into a comprehensive gaming ecosystem.
With the expansion of cloud services, cross-platform accessibility, and partnerships with major gaming publishers, Xbox is positioning itself as a premium subscription-first brand.
For existing subscribers, these changes mean more integrated services but also higher overall costs. The challenge for Microsoft will be ensuring that the increased price is matched by consistent improvements in performance, content, and customer satisfaction.
How Does The Xbox Game Pass Compare In Value Post-Price Hike?
The perceived value of Xbox Game Pass after the price hike depends on how extensively a user engages with the included services.
Below is a comparison between the old and new Game Pass Ultimate offerings:
| Feature | Before Price Hike | After Price Hike |
| Monthly Cost (UK) | £14.99 | £22.99 |
| Monthly Cost (US) | $19.99 | $29.99 |
| Day-One Game Access | 30–40 per year | 75+ per year |
| Cloud Gaming | Standard | Upgraded |
| Ubisoft+ Classics | Not included | Included |
| Fortnite Crew | Not included | Included |
| DLC Discounts | Available | Removed |
| Microsoft Rewards Points Boost | Standard | Enhanced |
For players who take advantage of cloud gaming, play multiple titles each month, and value day-one releases, the updated pricing may still offer good value. However, casual gamers or those who only play a handful of games a year may struggle to justify the increased cost.
What Should Existing Xbox Game Pass Subscribers Do Now?
Depending on your location and usage habits, there are several actions you can take in response to the new Xbox Game Pass pricing:
- If you are in the UK or US and still on the old rate, consider renewing or stacking subscription time before the next billing date
- If you are in a country where the price increase has been delayed, ensure auto-renewal is active to maintain current pricing
- Evaluate your monthly usage and game preferences to determine whether Xbox Game Pass Ultimate continues to offer value
- Monitor Xbox’s official communications for further updates, particularly if you are in a delayed region
- Check Microsoft Rewards to see how your gameplay can offset costs through point redemption
Microsoft has promised to provide advance notice in regions where the pricing change is still pending, so subscribers are encouraged to keep an eye on their email and Xbox dashboards for updates.
Conclusion
The Xbox Game Pass price increase in 2025 marks a turning point for Microsoft’s gaming subscription model. While the added content and enhancements certainly add value, the jump in cost is significant enough to make many reconsider their subscription.
For some, especially gamers who value day-one access and use cloud gaming frequently, the new pricing may still offer a compelling proposition. But for others, particularly casual gamers or those on tighter budgets, the increase may tip the balance away from affordability.
As Microsoft continues to expand its digital gaming services, only time will tell whether Game Pass remains the best deal in gaming.
FAQs
What is the current price of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate in the UK?
As of November 2025, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate costs £22.99 per month for subscribers in the UK.
Will Xbox Game Pass Core see a price increase?
Microsoft has not officially announced an increase for Xbox Game Pass Core, but future changes are possible.
Can I avoid the price increase if I stack subscription codes?
Yes, if you redeem prepaid codes purchased before the price hike, you can delay paying the new rate until the stacked period ends.
What happens if I cancel my subscription in a delayed region?
If you cancel and re-subscribe later, you will be charged the new rate, even in countries where the price increase was delayed.
Are the new benefits available to PC Game Pass users?
Some benefits, like Ubisoft+ Classics, are included, but others like Fortnite Crew are exclusive to Ultimate subscribers.
Why is Microsoft increasing Game Pass prices?
Microsoft cites expanded game catalogues, partner content, and improved cloud gaming as reasons for the price hike.
How does Xbox Game Pass compare to PlayStation Plus?
Xbox Game Pass offers more day-one releases, but PlayStation Plus may provide better value for players focused on exclusives and legacy titles.
