On October 1, 2025, Xbox Game Pass updated its subscription options, introducing three new plans: Essential, Premium, and Ultimate, for gamers around the globe.
Since it first became available, Game Pass has proven to be a hit with Xbox players. It has featured new releases on the day they come out, such as Starfield, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and Blue Prince, and popular games like Minecraft, Halo Infinite, and Forza Horizon 5 have consistently been available, keeping the game selection strong.
In 2024, Microsoft initially increased subscription costs in certain areas. Now, they’ve completely changed how the service works, offering three separate plans at different price points.
Xbox Game Pass pricing changes with tier exclusivity
Xbox Game Pass now offers three plans: Essential at $9.99, Premium at $14.99, and Ultimate at $29.99.
Essential offers a collection of over 50 games you can play on your console, PC, or through the cloud. With your subscription, you get online multiplayer access, unlimited cloud gaming, special perks within games, and can even earn up to $25 a year in Xbox Rewards.
Premium unlocks access to over 200+ games. Subscribers get new Xbox games within a year of their release, play on more PCs, enjoy unlimited cloud gaming, and receive extra perks in their favorite games. Yearly rewards increase to $50, including discounts and boosted points on all purchases.
Ultimate is our most comprehensive plan. For $29.99 per month, it includes Ubisoft+ Classics, EA Play, and Fortnite Crew starting November 18. With Ultimate, you’ll have access to over 400 games, with 75 or more new releases added each year. We’ve also improved cloud streaming quality, increased annual rewards to $100, and reduced wait times for cloud gaming sessions.
The change happens automatically. Subscribers with our Core plan will be upgraded to Essential. Those with Standard plans will move to Premium. Ultimate members will stay where they are, but with even more features! Prices will differ depending on your location, and these updates are being released worldwide. Learn more about the changes here.
Microsoft believes this update gives players greater choice, as each level is designed to match how different people get their Xbox games. The new system focuses on giving players rewards, perks, and bigger game collections to encourage them.
Read More
- United Airlines can now kick passengers off flights and ban them for not using headphones
- Crimson Desert: Disconnected Truth Puzzle Guide
- All 9 Coalition Heroes In Invincible Season 4 & Their Powers
- Mewgenics vinyl limited editions now available to pre-order
- Assassin’s Creed Shadows will get upgraded PSSR support on PS5 Pro with Title Update 1.1.9 launching April 7
- Grok’s ‘Ask’ feature no longer free as X moves it behind paywall
- Grey’s Anatomy Season 23 Confirmed for 2026-2027 Broadcast Season
- Viral Letterboxd keychain lets cinephiles show off their favorite movies on the go
- Crimson Desert Guide – How to Pay Fines, Bounties & Debt
- All Golden Ball Locations in Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties
2025-10-01 17:48