Microsoft Raises Xbox Game Pass Prices to $30: Gamers React

New reports confirm that Microsoft has officially increased the price of its Xbox Game Pass subscriptions, with Game Pass Ultimate now costing a staggering $29.99 per month, and the PC-only version priced at $16.49. This price hike comes at a critical time, coinciding with the launch of the Asus ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X handheld gaming PCs, leaving many gamers questioning the value of the service.

The backlash against this increase has been swift and intense. As streaming subscriptions across the board rise, consumers are forced to be more discerning about their entertainment choices. For many, the new Game Pass Ultimate price tag is untenable, pushing the service to the brink of cancellation.

Previously, at $19.99 a month, Game Pass Ultimate was considered a decent investment for access to a library of games, allowing players to enjoy titles like The Witcher III: Wild Hunt and test the performance of new gaming rigs. However, with the latest increase, many gamers are feeling that the subscription’s value has drastically diminished.

With the price now nearly $30 a month, some gamers argue that it’s cheaper to purchase a few major titles outright than to subscribe for a year, which would total around $360. One gamer expressed frustration, stating, “At this point, buying the games I use outright just makes more sense.”

But there is hope for Microsoft to regain gamers’ trust. Many believe that if Microsoft could leverage its extensive portfolio of game studios, including major acquisitions like Activision and Bethesda, it could justify the new price by consistently delivering high-quality first-party titles. Earlier in March 2025, Game Pass saw success with releases like Doom: The Dark Ages, but this was seen as an exception rather than a trend.

Industry analysts suggest that the gaming sector has been in a slump, influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic and shifting priorities among developers. The challenges faced in recent game launches, such as Dragon Age: The Veilguard, highlight the difficulties in delivering consistent quality and the impact of development cycles.

While the demand for Xbox Game Pass remains high, its future hinges on Microsoft’s ability to roll out a strong pipeline of games. If they can provide exciting new releases on a regular basis, the subscription could regain its appeal. However, the company faces the daunting task of coordinating multiple studios to ensure a steady stream of content, which is no easy feat.

As of now, gamers are left wondering if they should hold on to their subscriptions or look elsewhere for entertainment. The price increase is a significant moment for Microsoft, and how they respond could determine the future of Xbox Game Pass. For now, many are left stuck in limbo, with their gaming libraries feeling increasingly outdated and less valuable.

In the coming weeks, we will monitor how Microsoft addresses these challenges and whether they can enhance the Xbox Game Pass experience to justify the new pricing. As gamers await further developments, it’s clear that this story is far from over.