In news which is likely to be divisive among long-time subscribers of the Xbox Game Pass program, Microsoft has unveiled its plans for the Game Pass program, splitting perks and pricing across three tiers – with the highest tier, some perks of which were hallmarks of the original subscription model, coming in at a considerably higher price point.
All plans now promise expanded libraries across console, PC and cloud, in-game benefits that include Riot Games bonuses, and a refreshed Rewards with Xbox program. Xbox also says Cloud Gaming is officially out of “Beta,” with Ultimate subscribers getting higher streaming quality up to 1440p and shorter queue times.
Subscribers will be migrated automatically: Core to Essential, Standard to Premium, and Ultimate remains Ultimate. In Australia, published pricing lands at $12.95 AUD for Essential, $17.95 AUD for Premium, and AUD $35.95 AUD for Ultimate.
Ultimate is pitched as the “everything” tier. Xbox lists access to more than 75 day-one releases per year, Ubisoft+ Classics now included, enhanced cloud streaming up to 1440p, EA Play access, and Fortnite Crew from 18 November. The Xbox team has shared that more than 45 titles join the Ultimate library today, citing additions such as Prince of Persia The Lost Crown, Skull and Bones, Rayman Legends and multiple Assassin’s Creed entries.
Premium focuses on breadth and flexibility for console, PC and cloud. Xbox advertises 200-plus games playable on all three, with more than 40 new titles available today, and notes that new Xbox-published games will arrive within a year of launch rather than becoming immediately available as in the past, excluding Call of Duty. Premium subscribers also gain unlimited cloud gaming, selected in-game perks for titles like League of Legends and Call of Duty: Warzone, and more.
Essential is framed as the on-ramp: online multiplayer, unlimited cloud gaming, in-game benefits, Rewards, and a curated 50-plus game library playable on console and PC. Xbox calls out staples such as Hades, Cities: Skylines Remastered, Stardew Valley and Warhammer 40,000: Darktide.
