Microsoft has announced that its Game Pass prices will be increasing. The company said the monthly fee will increase by AU$3 to AU$4.
The standard subscription tier for Xbox consoles will also be replaced. This means that Xbox players will now need to subscribe to Game Pass Ultimate to get access to new games on the release date.
These price increases come after Microsoft’s announcement Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 would be immediately available to Game Pass subscribers.
Game Pass allows console and PC gamers to play hundreds of games for a monthly fee.
Players can download available games instead of streaming them.
Globally, there are approximately 34 million Game Pass subscribers.
Price increases for Australia are as follows:
- Xbox Game Pass Ultimate: Increase from AUD 18.95 to AUD 22.95.
- PC Game Pass: Increase from AUD 10.95 to AUD 13.95.
- Xbox Game Pass Core: Increase from AUD 79.95 to AUD 89.95.
The changes will be implemented immediately for new subscribers, but existing subscribers will see their bills change in September.
Those who currently have a basic subscription will keep it until the expiration date.
Subscribers at this tier will have access to hundreds of games, however, this excludes new releases and a few games exclusive to Ultimate subscribers.
Microsoft has revealed that “some games” available on Ultimate at launch “may be” added to the standard tier later.
It will also no longer be possible to accumulate Game Pass subscriptions for a period exceeding 13 months.