Image Source: Xbox Wire
On October 1, Microsoft made significant waves in the gaming community by implementing a major overhaul of its Xbox Game Pass service. This update includes a price increase for the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate tier, which has risen from $19.99 to $29.99 per month. This change is part of a broader strategy to enhance the value of the subscription service by offering a wide array of new titles alongside refined plans for gamers.
Exciting New Additions to Xbox Game Pass
As part of the new pricing, Microsoft has introduced over 45 new games to the Xbox Game Pass library, among which Hogwarts Legacy has grabbed the spotlight as one of the standout titles. This game is now available across Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and Premium tiers, bringing the magic of the Wizarding World to more players.
Additionally, fans of action role-playing games will be pleased to find Diablo IV included in the lineup, marking another major highlight of this update. Microsoft’s announcement indicates that the Premium tier now encompasses a diverse selection of over 40 new games, including classic titles like the Assassin’s Creed series and various offerings from Ubisoft.
Breakdown of Xbox Game Pass Tiers
With this update, Microsoft has restructured its Xbox Game Pass tiers as follows:
- Ultimate: This premium tier features access to more than 45 new games, including major titles like Hogwarts Legacy, and now includes Ubisoft+ Classics.
- Premium: Offers a curated library of over 40 new titles and introduces some new Xbox-published games at launch.
- Essential: A more budget-friendly option providing access to a curated catalog of over 50 games playable on both console and PC.
Notably, the Essential tier now includes titles such as Cities: Skylines Remastered, Hades, and Warhammer 40,000: Darktide, appealing to a variety of gamers looking for different experiences.
What the Changes Mean for Subscribers
Microsoft’s strategy to hike prices for the Ultimate tier aims to compensate for the added value through the newly integrated titles and services. This added content and subscription benefits, including a library of Ubisoft classics, is meant to offset the price increase, ensuring subscribers feel they are receiving greater value. However, this decision has sparked conversations among consumers about the implications of such changes on their gaming budgets.
While the excitement over new game additions is palpable, the exclusion of certain franchises, specifically Call of Duty, from day-one access for Premium subscribers has brought some skepticism into the fold. Gamers will not find themselves playing the next installment, reportedly titled Black Ops 7, immediately upon its release this coming November.
The Complete October 2025 Xbox Game Pass Lineup
The following titles are available as of October 1, 2025, highlighting the diverse offerings:
- Ultimate: Hogwarts Legacy, Diablo IV, and a plethora of Assassin’s Creed games.
- Premium: Features games like Age of Empires III and Cities: Skylines II.
- Essential: Includes new favorites such as Disney Dreamlight Valley and Hades.
As Microsoft continues to shape the ecosystem of its gaming services, the enhancements made to Xbox Game Pass reflect a pivotal moment in gaming subscriptions, catering to a broader audience and creating more opportunities for gamers to enjoy high-quality titles across various genres.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the new Xbox Game Pass subscription prices?
The Ultimate tier price has risen from $19.99 to $29.99 per month as of October 1, 2025.
Which major games are now included in Xbox Game Pass?
Significant additions include Hogwarts Legacy, Diablo IV, and multiple titles from the Assassin’s Creed franchise.
Is Call of Duty accessible on the Xbox Game Pass?
No, the upcoming Call of Duty title will not be available at launch for Xbox Game Pass Premium subscribers.
What tiers are available for Xbox Game Pass?
The service now has three tiers: Ultimate, Premium, and Essential, each offering different levels of access and game libraries.
Will existing subscribers see changes in their current subscription?
Yes, existing subscribers may see adjustments to their subscription based on the new pricing structure effective October 1, 2025.
