Microsoft has introduced a new Xbox Game Pass Standard plan priced at $14.99 per month, replacing the console’s Game Pass option for new subscribers. It offers access to the regular Game Pass Xbox library and multiplayer gaming mode, but does not include immediate access to games on the day they are released, one of the main advantages of the service.
Image source: Microsoft
Microsoft first announced the introduction of Xbox Game Pass Standard in July of this year, while simultaneously announcing price increases for Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscribers. Notably, existing Xbox Game Pass subscribers for the console will continue to have access to games on launch day, while new Game Pass users will be limited to choosing between Core, Standard, PC and Ultimate plans.
Microsoft has clarified that Xbox Game Pass Standard subscribers will eventually have access to new games from Xbox and third-party developers, but some games appearing on Game Pass Ultimate (games available on launch day or other new titles) will not be immediately available on Game Pass Standard and can be added to the library later – up to 12 months or more, depending on the specific game.
This approach allows Microsoft to manage its gaming content more flexibly, potentially encouraging users to upgrade to more expensive subscriptions for quick access to highly anticipated new products. As part of the innovations, Microsoft offers the following subscription options:
- Xbox Game Pass Core: $9.99 per month – Offers access to more than 25 games, online multiplayer on the console, and exclusive discounts and special offers.
- Xbox Game Pass Standard: $14.99 per month – Includes hundreds of games, console online multiplayer, discounts and special offers, but no immediate access to new content.
- PC Game Pass: $11.99 per month – Provides access to an extensive library of games, new games on release day, the EA Play library, plus discounts and special offers for PC users.
- Xbox Game Pass Ultimate: $19.99 per month – the most comprehensive package yet, combining all the benefits of previous plans, including hundreds of games, access to new games on their day of release, the EA Play library, online multiplayer for the console, exclusive discounts, special offers and additional bonuses.