Xbox Game Pass Subscription Rates To Rise In India and Other Regions

Microsoft has announced an increase in the prices of its Xbox Game Pass subscription service across various regions. This change comes weeks after confirming that the upcoming Call of Duty title will be available on Xbox Game Pass at launch. The new pricing will affect Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Xbox Game Pass Core, and PC Game Pass subscribers starting from July 10 for new members.

Microsoft Xbox Game Pass Subscription Hike

In India, the monthly subscription fee for Game Pass Ultimate, which provides access to a vast library of games, day-one releases, and other benefits on both Xbox consoles and PC, will rise from Rs 549 to Rs 829. The annual subscription for Game Pass Core will now cost Rs 3,349, up from Rs 1,999. This tier offers a selection of games and online multiplayer access on Xbox consoles. Meanwhile, the monthly PC Game Pass subscription will increase from Rs 249 to Rs 449.

Microsoft has also introduced a new subscription tier called Game Pass Standard for Xbox consoles. This tier will provide access to hundreds of titles and all benefits of Game Pass Core, including online console multiplayer and discounts. However, it will not include new first-party titles on their release day. Game Pass Standard will be priced at $14.99 (approximately Rs 1,251) and is expected to be available in the coming months.

Impact on Existing Subscribers

The company has decided to discontinue the Game Pass for Console tier for new subscribers. Existing subscribers with automatic renewal enabled will continue to enjoy their current benefits. Microsoft stated that these changes aim to add "more value and more great games to Game Pass."

While the new prices are already in effect for new members, existing subscribers will see the increased rates reflected in their recurring charges starting September 12. This marks the second price hike for Xbox Game Pass after last year's increase in July when the Ultimate tier's price in India went up from Rs 499 to Rs 549.

The price adjustment follows Microsoft's confirmation in May that Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 would be available on Xbox Game Pass from its launch date on October 25.

"We believe these changes will allow us to continue offering more value and great games through our subscription service," Microsoft said regarding the updates. This move reflects Microsoft's ongoing strategy to enhance its gaming services while adjusting pricing structures to reflect added value and content offerings.

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