Microsoft has announced a comprehensive restructuring of its Xbox Game Pass subscription service, headlined by a substantial price increase for the top-tier Ultimate plan and the addition of new benefits across all tiers. These changes are effective immediately for new subscribers and will apply at the next billing cycle for existing members.

The most notable change is the cost of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which is rising from $19.99 to $29.99 per month—a 50 percent hike. Microsoft is justifying this increase with a suite of new features. The Ultimate library is expanding to over 400 games, including 45 new additions like Hogwarts Legacy and several Assassin's Creed titles. The plan will also now offer over 75 day-one game releases annually. Furthermore, Ultimate is integrating Ubisoft Plus Classics and, starting November 18th, the Fortnite Crew subscription, which Microsoft claims adds a combined $28 in monthly value. Ultimate subscribers also get enhanced cloud gaming at 1440p resolution and can earn up to $100 annually through a revamped rewards program.

The existing tiers are also being rebranded and enhanced. The Standard plan is now called Xbox Game Pass Premium, retaining its $14.99 monthly price. For the first time, this tier includes access to PC games and unlimited cloud gaming. While it won't feature day-one releases, Microsoft has committed to adding its first-party titles (excluding Call of Duty) within a year of launch. Premium subscribers also gain access to in-game perks and can earn up to $50 per year in rewards.

The entry-level Core plan is being renamed Xbox Game Pass Essential for $9.99 per month. Its game library is growing to over 50 titles, and it now includes PC game access and unlimited cloud streaming, features previously reserved for higher tiers. Essential members can also participate in the rewards program, earning up to $25 annually.

Separately, the standalone PC Game Pass subscription is seeing a price increase from $11.99 to $16.49 per month, a near 40 percent rise. This plan will receive additional Ubisoft titles but will not include the Ubisoft Plus Classics integration.

In a briefing, Microsoft's Dustin Blackwell acknowledged that price increases are challenging but stated the company is aiming to add more value based on community feedback. This move follows significant recent investments in the Game Pass catalog and comes just ahead of a separate price increase for Xbox Series X consoles in the US.