Microsoft's Pricing Shake-Up Continues

In a startling turn of events, gaming giant Microsoft has hinted at yet another price increase for its Xbox Game Pass subscription service. Just months after escalating the costs of its consoles and first-party games, the company seems poised to raise prices for eager gamers once again.

A Sneaky Code Reveal

Recent findings by developer RedPhx on social media platform X unveiled a new code string on Xbox's website, ominously labelled "SubscriptionPriceIncrease." This discovery raises eyebrows, suggesting that subscribers may soon face a higher monthly fee.

The Current Game Pass Landscape

Currently, Xbox Game Pass boasts four tiers: Core, Standard, Ultimate, and PC Game Pass. Here's the lowdown on prices: - Core: $9.99 / £6.99 / €6.99 - PC Game Pass: $11.99 / £9.99 / €11.99 - Standard: $14.99 / £10.99 / €12.99 - Ultimate: $19.99 / £14.99 / €17.99 With the recent $79.99 price tag slapped on select Xbox titles this holiday season, it’s becoming apparent that gamers should brace for higher subscription costs.

Speculations on New Tiers

The last Game Pass price hike hit subscribers in September 2024, marking the introduction of a new Standard tier. As rumors circulate about a potential family pass or even a cloud-only tier, players may soon have alternative options to explore.

Cloud Gaming Accessibility Issues

Currently, accessing Xbox Cloud Gaming requires the pricey Ultimate subscription. This has frustrated players keen to casually enjoy cloud gaming without committing to a $20/month fee. Reports suggest that a more affordable cloud-only tier might soon be in the works, designed to be accessible for casual gamers.

What's Next for Xbox?

As Xbox Cloud Gaming continues to evolve, it’s becoming a focal point in Xbox marketing. Recent showcases have placed cloud gaming alongside console and PC formats, raising questions about its status in the gaming ecosystem. Could a price increase be justified by an enticing array of upcoming Game Pass games? Only time will tell! Leave your thoughts below!