Microsoft Raises Xbox Game Pass Price, Diluting 'All-inclusive' Promise
Microsoft has raised the price of its Xbox Game Pass service, leaving subscribers confused and frustrated. The central promise of 'One-Stop, All-inclusive, Hassle-free, and Day 1' is now marred by restrictions and footnotes.
The price hike, announced on October 1, affects the Ultimate tariff, which now costs 26.99 € per month. This is a significant increase from the initial price of 12.99 € in 2019, and even higher than the 17 € it reached in 2023. This means the annual cost is now 324 €, equivalent to buying four or five full-price games.
The increase comes despite Microsoft swearing to antitrust authorities that Game Pass prices would not rise following its 70-billion-dollar acquisition of Activision Blizzard. In some countries like Brazil, the price has even doubled. Commentators and users are expressing confusion, with one saying, 'I just want to play.'
The new price includes features like Fortnite in-game currency, League of Legends items, and cloud gaming. However, the upcoming game 'Call of Duty: Black Ops 7' will only be available to those who choose the full Game Pass equipment, at a much higher monthly rate. Meanwhile, the minimum annual cost for online multiplayer mode on an Xbox is now 120 €.
The price increase has diluted the original Game Pass promise, with users now facing more restrictions and higher costs. Despite assurances to the contrary, Microsoft has raised prices significantly, leaving subscribers questioning the value of their subscriptions.
