Microsoft restructures Game Pass into Essential, Premium and Ultimate

Microsoft on Thursday announced a major restructuring of its Xbox Game Pass subscription, introducing three new tiers, raising the price of its top plan and changing how discounts on downloadable content and in‑game purchases are applied. The company said the new lineup — Game Pass Essential, Premium and Ultimate — will take effect automatically for current subscribers and include expanded libraries, cloud upgrades and other benefits, while discounts on many DLC and in‑game currency purchases will be replaced by Microsoft Rewards points.

Game Pass Ultimate, priced at $29.99 a month, will offer what Microsoft described as its most expansive package, including access to more than 75 day‑one releases annually and partner offerings such as Ubisoft Classics and Fortnite Crew membership. The company cited upcoming titles available through the service including Call of Duty Black Ops 7, The Outer Worlds 2 and Ninja Gaiden 4. Premium, at $14.99 a month, will include access to more than 200 games across console, PC and supported devices, upgraded cloud gaming features and bonus in‑game content for selected titles. Essential, at $9.99 a month, will provide a curated library of more than...