Major Changes Are Coming To Xbox Game Pass: Price Hike & Ad-Supported Plans

Update:

Microsoft has just recently confirmed that the price of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate now costs $30.

Original Post:

In the gaming industry, price hikes have become increasingly common, with nearly every major publisher following the trend. Game Pass and PlayStation Plus, two of the most popular subscription services, have both experienced multiple price increases over the past few years.

Sony has raised the prices of its subscription tiers twice in the last two years, citing global market conditions. Similarly, Xbox Game Pass has seen two major price hikes along with several structural changes.

Now, according to new reports, even more significant changes may be on the way for Xbox Game Pass, including another price increase, additional tier restructuring, and the introduction of ad-supported plans.

A moderator on ResetEra claims to have heard about the changes from highly reliable sources. While this source has been accurate in the past, that alone does not guarantee credibility. However, well-known industry insider Shinobi602 added weight to the speculation by commenting “More than that” on the thread, along with a grimacing face emoji.

Game Pass Price Hike Reportedly Coming In 2026

The moderator on ResetEra claimed that PC Game Pass is going away and will be replaced with Game Pass Standard and Game Pass Core. This means that there will be no more day-one releases. That is a significant downgrade from what the current PC Game Pass offers.

The moderator further revealed that the Game Pass Ultimate price will be increased to $25. The Ultimate tier right now costs $20. Also, according to the moderator, cloud streaming will be included in all tiers.

If the post is anything to go by, there are also going to be changes in the names. Game Pass Core will be changed to Game Pass Essential, and Game Pass Standard to Game Pass Premium.

In 2026, a cheaper ad tier for the subscription service will also be launched, and it will consist of forced ads. Regarding the day releases, Game Pass Ultimate will be the only tier to offer day-one releases. Fans are furious in the comments section over this rumor.

Shinobi602 sparks even more flames over the topic by implying that there are going to be more changes than that. This has further fueled the controversy and almost confirmed that these changes are imminent.

Also, it is worth noting that not all of these changes are planned for 2026. The moderator mentions that most of these changes will be implemented this year, with the ad tier being pushed to 2026. He also mentioned that the price hike may be delayed until 2026.

Still, we recommend taking this news with a pinch of salt until Microsoft steps in and confirms it.

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Obaid Ur Rehman

Obaid Ur Rehman is a lifelong gaming enthusiast with a deep passion for writing about video games. While he enjoys all genres, he specializes in RPGs and Soulslike titles. After tackling some of the toughest bosses, he often unwinds with a cozy game to relax. Outside of gaming, Obaid enjoys watching anime, bingeing TV series, or staying active at the gym.