Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, PC Pass getting price hikes, new Standard plan introduced

Microsoft is revamping its Game Pass subscription — the Ultimate and PC versions are getting more expensive, while console players are getting access to a new, cheaper Standard version. Also, Game Pass for consoles is shutting down.

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which allows you to download and play games on PC and Xbox or use the cloud option, will go from $17 per month to $20 per month on September 12. These are US prices, you can see detailed pricing details for every supported country in this PDF. Note that the price of the cheaper Game Pass Core (12-month subscription) is also increasing. Here’s a quick look at the changes:

The new Xbox Game Pass Standard is cheaper at $15 for new users of the service. The main differences with Ultimate are that you won’t get access to new game titles on day one and an EA Play subscription isn’t included.

One more thing – the Standard Pass doesn’t offer cloud gaming on mobile devices. This also means that the recently launched support for streaming on Amazon Fire TV Stick (4K or 4K Max) isn’t available if you plan to use one of those instead of an Xbox.

Some of you may be members of Xbox Game Pass for Console. As of today (July 10), it is no longer available to new members. If you are a member and have automatic payments setup, you will retain access to the service. If not, you will need to convert to either Standard or Ultimate. Note: Game Pass for Console codes will continue to be redeemable, but there are some nuances. See extension limitations.

Prices are also changing for PC Game Pass, which gives you access to PC titles but is cheaper than the new Xbox Game Pass Standard. And, unlike the Standard plan, you get access to new games from day one.