Subscription Price Stability for Select Users
In an announcement that has caught the attention of gamers in various regions, Microsoft has assured Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers that they can continue their subscriptions without facing the newly announced price increase—provided they remain subscribed. This change, which introduces a significant hike in costs, will only impact new subscribers.
Affected Regions
Reports from Reddit indicate that users in countries such as Poland, Germany, Indonesia, Austria, India, and Ireland have received official communication from Microsoft. The messages clarify that subscribers in these areas will retain their current pricing.
Official Communication from Microsoft
The Microsoft email, which has been confirmed by multiple sources, reads: “At this time, these increases will only affect new purchases and will not affect your current subscription for the market in which you reside, as long as you are on an auto-recurring plan. Should you choose to cancel your plan and repurchase, you will be charged at the new current rate.”
Speculations on Local Regulations
Insights suggest that the decision regarding pricing variations could be tied to local regulatory frameworks concerning subscription services. This consideration likely played a role in configuring subscription plans for different regions.
Details on Price Changes
This week, Microsoft unveiled a 50% increase in the price of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which is set to rise to $29.99/£22.99. Along with this adjustment, the offering will expand to include popular titles like Fortnite Crew and the Ubisoft+ Classics collection.
Implications for PC Game Pass
In addition to changes in the Ultimate plan, PC Game Pass will see its pricing shift as well. The previously established rate of $11.99/£9.99 per month will now elevate to $16.49/£13.49 per month, marking a change for PC gamers.
Recent Trends in Price Increases
Microsoft’s Xbox consoles, too, have faced a sequence of price adjustments over the past few months, with a recent announcement about increased prices in the US further illustrating a trend of rising costs across their gaming services and hardware.
