Xbox Game Pass Ultimate recently saw a massive 50% price increase in the US, jumping from $19.99 to $29.99 per month. That’s an extra $120 annually, a significant amount just to maintain what many considered the best value in gaming. Ouch!
To potentially soften the blow of this price hike, one strategy is to “stack” your Xbox Game Pass Ultimate membership, extending it to its maximum limit of 36 months before the new prices are fully enforced for existing subscribers. Of course, another option is simply to cancel your subscription entirely – the choice is yours!
However, with some retailers offering Game Pass at its previous price, this presents a unique chance to secure your membership for the foreseeable future at a reduced rate. Let’s explore the potential savings.
Currently, one-month codes can still be found for $19.99, which is effectively a $10 discount compared to the new monthly rate. Even better, three-month codes are available for $54.99 each, a substantial saving against the new $89.99 quarterly price.
You can pre-purchase up to 12 three-month codes, totaling 36 months. This would currently cost $659.88 (or $219.96 per year). While investing nearly $700 upfront might seem steep, especially in today’s economy, understanding these numbers reveals the potential long-term savings.
Under the new $29.99/month rate, three years of Game Pass Ultimate would set you back $1,079.64. By purchasing codes now at the discounted rate, you could save up to $419.76 – effectively covering more than an additional year of service. Even if a three-year commitment isn’t for you, securing 12 months at the old price (approx. $219.96) compared to the new annual cost ($359.88) represents a solid saving.
Understanding the New Xbox Game Pass Tiers and Prices:
- Xbox Game Pass Ultimate: Now $29.99 per month (previously $19.99)
- Xbox Game Pass Premium: $14.99 per month (replaces the old Standard subscription)
- Xbox Game Pass Essential: $9.99 per month (replaces the old Core subscription)
- PC Game Pass: Now $16.49 per month (previously $11.99)
These updated prices are already live for new subscribers and will apply to current subscribers starting November 4. Microsoft also announced a significant expansion, adding over 45 new games to Game Pass, including popular titles like Hogwarts Legacy and a substantial Ubisoft back catalog.
Interestingly, some major US retailers, including Amazon, Best Buy, Target, and Walmart, have not yet adjusted their prices to match Microsoft’s increase. This offers a limited-time opportunity to purchase Game Pass memberships at the previous rates.