Xbox Game Pass Ultimate has surged to $29.99/month in the U.S.—a 50% price hike since its last increase. This change, effective October 1 for new users, raises questions about the subscription’s value amid new perks. Existing subscribers will transition to the new rate starting November 4.
Breaking down the price increases
- U.S. Ultimate Plan: Jumped from $19.99 to $29.99/month—adding $120 annually.
- PC Game Pass: Rises to $16.49/month.
- UK Ultimate Plan: Increased by 53% (£14.99 to £22.99/month).
The steep price comes with bundled services: Ubisoft+ Classics (available since October) and Fortnite Crew (launching November 18). Microsoft also touts 75+ annual day-one releases and enhanced cloud gaming for Ultimate members.
Updated Game Pass tiers
Microsoft now offers three console-focused tiers:
- Essential ($9.99/month): Includes online multiplayer, cloud gaming, 50+ games, and reward points.
- Premium ($14.99/month): Expands to 200+ games across devices, cloud gaming, and access to new Xbox titles (excluding Call of Duty) within a year of release.
- Ultimate ($29.99/month): Bundles Premium’s features with Ubisoft+ Classics, Fortnite Crew, 75+ annual day-one releases, and premium cloud streaming. Members also earn extra reward points.
New benefits explained
Fortnite Crew ($11.99 standalone) provides:
- Monthly Battle Pass
- 1,000 V-Bucks
- Exclusive cosmetics
Ubisoft+ Classics adds rotating titles like Assassin’s Creed and Far Cry to Ultimate at no extra cost.
Industry outlook and subscription value
While critics argue subscription models may be unsustainable, Microsoft reports record engagement and revenue. Ultimate’s value hinges on usage: frequent players of Ubisoft games, Fortnite enthusiasts, and cloud gamers may justify the cost, while casual players might prefer cheaper tiers.