Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass has long been one of the most popular subscription services in the gaming industry, offering access to hundreds of titles for a monthly fee. With its unique mix of blockbuster releases, indie gems, and day-one access to Microsoft exclusives, Game Pass has changed how players consume games.
However, 2025 has brought major changes for subscribers: a Game Pass price increase. While the move isn’t entirely surprising given Microsoft’s investments in studios and content, it has sparked debates across the gaming community.
This article breaks down everything you need to know about the new Xbox Game Pass Ultimate price, the reasons behind the increase, what games are included, and how it compares to other subscription services.
What Is Xbox Game Pass?
Launched in 2017, Xbox Game Pass is often referred to as the “Netflix for games.” The service grants members access to a rotating library of over 400 titles across Xbox consoles, PC, and cloud gaming platforms.
There are three main tiers of subscription:
Xbox Game Pass (Console): Designed for Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One users.
PC Game Pass: Focused on PC players, with access to a similar library.
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate: A premium version that combines console, PC, cloud gaming, and Xbox Live Gold benefits into one package.
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate – A Quick Overview
The Xbox Game Pass Ultimate tier has been the go-to option for gamers seeking the most value. It includes:
Access to all Game Pass games across console, PC, and cloud.
Online multiplayer with Xbox Live Gold.
EA Play membership with additional titles from Electronic Arts.
Exclusive discounts and free perks.
For years, Ultimate has been praised as one of the best deals in gaming, offering hundreds of dollars’ worth of content for a modest monthly fee.
The 2025 Xbox Game Pass Price Increase
In mid-2025, Microsoft announced a Game Pass price increase that impacts all subscription tiers.
Here’s a breakdown of the updated costs (U.S. pricing as reference):
| Subscription Tier | Old Price (per month) | New Price (per month) |
|---|---|---|
| Xbox Game Pass (Console) | $10.99 | $12.99 |
| PC Game Pass | $9.99 | $11.99 |
| Xbox Game Pass Ultimate | $16.99 | $19.99 |
Why Did Microsoft Increase the Price?
There are several key reasons behind the price adjustment:
Rising Development Costs: Modern AAA games are more expensive to produce, often exceeding $200 million budgets.
Acquisitions: Microsoft’s purchase of studios like Bethesda and Activision Blizzard has expanded its library, but at a huge cost.
Day-One Releases: Including major titles like Starfield and Call of Duty on launch day adds significant value but also financial strain.
Competition with PlayStation Plus: As Sony expands its own subscription tiers, Microsoft is positioning Game Pass as a premium service.
How Gamers Are Reacting
The gaming community’s response has been mixed. Some argue the price hike is justified given the sheer volume of content, while others feel it makes Game Pass less accessible to casual players.
Positive Reactions
Continued inclusion of day-one AAA titles.
Access to cloud gaming, which allows play without expensive hardware.
Still cheaper compared to buying multiple games at full retail price.
Concerns Among Gamers
For casual users who don’t play frequently, the higher cost may not feel worth it.
Some fear that Game Pass could become too expensive if prices keep rising yearly.
PC players argue that library differences between console and PC versions should be addressed.
Xbox Game Pass Games – What’s Included in 2025?
Despite the price increase, Game Pass remains one of the most robust gaming libraries available. In 2025, some of the headline titles include:
Starfield
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare IV
Forza Motorsport
Halo Infinite updates and expansions
Minecraft Legends
Diablo IV (via Activision Blizzard acquisition)
EA Sports FC (via EA Play)
Additionally, Microsoft has pledged to rotate indie titles and add fresh content monthly, ensuring the library remains diverse.
Comparing Xbox Game Pass to Other Services
To put things in perspective, here’s how Xbox Game Pass Ultimate stacks up against rivals:
PlayStation Plus Premium: $17.99 per month, includes game streaming, classic titles, and exclusive discounts.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: $49.99 per year, offering retro games and DLC bundles.
Ubisoft+: $17.99 per month, focused solely on Ubisoft titles.
Even with the price hike, Game Pass remains competitive given its variety and first-party day-one releases.
What This Means for Microsoft’s Strategy
The Game Pass model has always been about player engagement over direct game sales. By increasing prices, Microsoft is signaling its confidence that players see long-term value in the subscription.
Industry analysts believe the company is banking on:
A larger audience through cloud gaming, particularly in regions where consoles are expensive.
The success of Activision Blizzard titles, especially Call of Duty, to attract millions of new subscribers.
Bundling strategies that integrate Game Pass with Windows and other Microsoft services.
Final Thoughts
The Xbox Game Pass price increase marks a new era for Microsoft’s subscription service. While it may raise eyebrows, the decision reflects the evolving economics of the gaming industry. For dedicated gamers, the value remains high, especially through the Game Pass Ultimate tier.
However, casual users may need to reconsider which tier works best for their gaming habits. Whether this move will affect Game Pass’s dominance in the market remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the service continues to shape the future of gaming.
FAQs
Q1. What is the new Xbox Game Pass Ultimate price?
The new price is $19.99 per month in the U.S.
Q2. Why did Microsoft increase Game Pass prices?
Due to rising development costs, studio acquisitions, and the inclusion of expensive day-one releases.
Q3. Is Xbox Game Pass still worth it in 2025?
For frequent gamers, yes. The library includes major AAA releases and hundreds of titles at a lower cost than buying individually.
Q4. How does Game Pass compare to PlayStation Plus?
While PlayStation Plus Premium is slightly cheaper, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate offers day-one releases, making it attractive for those who want new games immediately.
Q5. Can I still get Game Pass discounts?
Yes, Microsoft often offers promotional deals for new subscribers, though conversion hacks have become limited compared to earlier years.
