Future of Xbox Game Pass Pricing Xbox

[Tom]

Recent comments from Asha Sharma, the new head of Xbox and Microsoft Gaming, indicate a significant shift in the approach to Xbox Game Pass (XGP). In a leaked memo, Sharma acknowledged that the current pricing of Game Pass has become "too expensive" and emphasised the need for a "better value equation" to enhance its appeal.

Sharma stated, "Game Pass is central to gaming value on Xbox," but also noted that the existing model isn't final and will evolve into a "more flexible system" over time. This acknowledgment of potential shortcomings comes in light of previous price increases that have been met with criticism from the gaming community.

The discussion around Game Pass pricing has been ongoing, especially with speculation that the upcoming 2026 Call of Duty may not be available on the service, which could further influence its value perception among consumers.

Sharma's openness to the feedback circulating online signals a willingness to adapt, though any immediate changes appear unlikely. This situation raises questions about how Microsoft will balance the need for profitability with user satisfaction in the competitive gaming market.

 

[Gemma]

I doubt anything will change but the addition of Fornite and Ubisoft+ was an unnecessary step. If you ask me. They need to those - if people really want them they can buy a subscription, they should be "forced" on everyone.

 

[Black Sheep]

My money is on there having been a huge exodus from Game Pass (particularly Ultimate) since the last price increase, and there has been a realisation at Microsoft that it cannot continue as is, and that the idea that people will stick with the service no matter what is charged has been comprehensively disproven. The majority of people who still subscribe to Ultimate are either shielded from the price increases due to local laws, or have already stacked a period of subscription and so again are not paying the increased rates. I'd bet good money that many of those that were not shielded from the price increase last year either dropped to a cheaper tier or left the Service entirely. Either way, I bet Microsoft saw a significant reduction in revenue hence the need to revaluate what they are doing with Game Pass.