Xbox PC Game Pass Price Increase Confirmed: Key Details Inside

Microsoft has announced another price hike for Xbox Game Pass, raising the cost of the PC Game Pass plan from $12 to $16.49 a month. This change comes as part of a broader restructuring of its subscription tiers.

The increase, confirmed on October 1, 2025, follows a series of price adjustments across Xbox’s Game Pass plans, including Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which now costs $30 a month. The new price for PC Game Pass will take effect on November 4, 2025, for current subscribers, though new users will see the change immediately.

What’s New With Xbox Game Pass Pricing?

Microsoft’s decision to raise the price of its PC Game Pass plan aims to match the value gamers are receiving through expanded content. In addition to its standard offering, Xbox Game Pass PC now includes more perks, including day-one releases for games, access to a wider catalog, and an enhanced cloud gaming experience.

The price hike is part of a wider rebranding initiative for Xbox Game Pass. Core and Standard plans have been renamed Essential and Premium, respectively, but remain priced at $10 and $15 a month, keeping them stable. Meanwhile, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate continues to evolve with added benefits like Ubisoft Plus Classics and Fortnite Crew.

Why the Price Increase May Spark Debate Among Gamers

While the added benefits in Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, such as 75 day-one releases a year, are appealing, many players may find the $30/month price tag steep. With the cost of gaming rising across the board, including higher console prices and more expensive individual games, players will likely weigh whether these additional perks justify the price hike.

One of the most significant changes is the inclusion of Fortnite Crew and Ubisoft Plus Classics subscriptions, which combined are valued at $28 a month. However, for many, paying $30 for a subscription service may not be the best option given that titles like “Hollow Knight: Silksong” retail for less than the cost of a month’s subscription. Players may reconsider their subscriptions or choose to buy games outright when the value proposition doesn’t align with their gaming habits.

For some, the changes may encourage them to cancel their Ultimate plans after a few months or subscribe for short periods to access specific games. Others may find themselves gravitating to alternative services or even sticking with Xbox’s individual game purchases.

Ultimately, while the increased cost offers more value in the form of exclusive games and perks, gamers will need to decide whether the cost is worth it based on their time spent gaming.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why is Xbox PC Game Pass increasing in price?

The price increase reflects Microsoft’s effort to provide more value through day-one releases, additional perks like Ubisoft Plus Classics, and enhanced cloud gaming features.

Q2: When will the new PC Game Pass price take effect?

The new price will be implemented on November 4, 2025, for current subscribers, with new subscribers seeing the updated price immediately.

Q3: How much does Xbox Game Pass Ultimate cost now?

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate now costs $30 a month, following a recent price increase.

Q4: Is the new Xbox Game Pass pricing a good deal for gamers?

While Xbox is offering more content, including exclusive day-one releases, the $30/month price may not be appealing to everyone, especially casual gamers.

Q5: What benefits come with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate?

Subscribers to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate get access to 75 day-one releases per year, Ubisoft Plus Classics, Fortnite Crew, and cloud gaming enhancements, among other perks.