Microsoft has announced significant price increases for its Game Pass subscription service, while simultaneously preparing to add more Activision Blizzard titles to the platform. Here's what you need to know:
Game Pass Price Changes
- Game Pass for console is being discontinued for new subscribers
- Game Pass Core annual price increased from $59.99 to $74.99
- PC Game Pass monthly fee raised from $9.99 to $11.99
- Game Pass Ultimate now $19.99/month, up from $16.99
- New Standard tier introduced at $14.99/month
The price hikes come as Microsoft looks to maximize revenue from its existing subscriber base, according to industry analyst Rhys Elliott. He suggests we should expect more price increases in the future as the company aims to boost average revenue per user.
New Activision Games Coming to Game Pass
While the price increases may sting, Game Pass subscribers can look forward to more Activision Blizzard titles joining the service soon. Insider reports indicate several classic franchises are on the way:
- Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy
- Spyro Reignited Trilogy
- Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2
These additions follow Diablo IV, which joined Game Pass in March. Microsoft is reportedly taking a gradual approach to adding Activision's back catalog.
What This Means for Gamers
The Game Pass price increases reflect Microsoft's strategy of pushing users towards the Ultimate tier while preparing for a major mobile and cloud gaming expansion. As the console and PC markets approach saturation, Microsoft needs new avenues for growth.
For gamers, the value proposition of Game Pass is evolving. While the service is becoming more expensive, the addition of major Activision franchises could help offset the higher costs for many subscribers. However, the removal of the basic console tier may force some users to re-evaluate their subscriptions.
As Microsoft continues to integrate Activision Blizzard's portfolio and expand its cloud gaming ambitions, expect further changes to Game Pass in the coming months and years. The gaming landscape is shifting, and Microsoft is positioning itself to lead the transition to subscription and cloud-based models.