Microsoft has announced significant price increases for its Game Pass, the subscription service for games often compared to Netflix. Following the acquisition of Activision Blizzard for a record $69 billion in 2023, Microsoft revealed that monthly charges for PC Game Pass will increase by £2 to £9.99, while its premium service, Ultimate, will rise by £2 to £14.99 per month. Additionally, the standard subscription tier on Xbox consoles will be replaced in September, requiring Xbox gamers to subscribe to Game Pass Ultimate for access to new games on their release day.Reports Technology News
This announcement follows the news in May that Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, one of Microsoft’s most anticipated titles, will be available immediately to Game Pass subscribers. Analysts believe this move aims to disrupt an industry traditionally dominated by physical game sales.
Game Pass, similar to Sony’s PlayStation Plus service, offers console and PC players access to hundreds of video games for a monthly subscription fee. Unlike streaming services, many of these games can be downloaded for play. With around 34 million Game Pass subscribers worldwide, all will now face higher costs.
The price increases for the UK are as follows:
- Game Pass Ultimate: Monthly will rise from £12.99 to £14.99
- PC Game Pass: Monthly will rise from £7.99 to £9.99
- Game Pass Core: Annual will rise from £49.99 to £55.99
These changes are effective immediately for new subscribers, while existing members on recurring fees will see their bills change in September.
