Microsoft recently announced a major update to Xbox Game Pass plans that will impact subscribers in 2026. The biggest news is a sharp price increase for the Ultimate tier, jumping from $19.99 to $29.99 per month. Alongside this, Microsoft has renamed and revamped existing tiers, added more games, and included new benefits like unlimited cloud gaming.
What’s Changing With the Tiers?
The Xbox Game Pass subscription plans have been renamed and restructured to better serve different types of gamers. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Old Tier Name | New Tier Name | Price (Monthly) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core | Essential | $9.99 | Unlimited gaming on console and PC, multiplayer, Xbox Live Gold, curated selection of 50+ games |
| Standard | Premium | $14.99 | Access to 200+ games across PC and console, including classics like Minecraft and Grand Theft Auto V, no first-day releases |
| Ultimate | Ultimate | $29.99 | Access to 400+ games, including day-one releases, EA Play, Ubisoft+ Classics, improved streaming quality up to 1440p |
Why the Price Increase?
The $10 jump for Ultimate is steep but Microsoft is backing it up with significant improvements. Ultimate subscribers get access to over 400 games globally, including more than 75 day-one releases annually. The new library also includes Ubisoft+ Classics, bringing in fan-favorite games like Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, and more.
Cloud gaming has been improved with streaming quality now reaching 1440p, and there’s a new rewards program to add extra value for dedicated players.
More Games, More Choices
Alongside the restructuring, Microsoft is adding over 45 new titles to Game Pass. Big names like Hogwarts Legacy, Diablo IV, and multiple Assassin’s Creed games have been added to the Ultimate tier, making it a compelling value for hardcore gamers.
The Premium tier continues to offer over 200 games on multiple platforms, including console and PC, but without day-one releases. Essential remains an affordable option for casual players or multiplayer enthusiasts.
What This Means for Gamers
- The Ultimate tier’s price hike may lead some casual gamers to downgrade to Premium or Essential.
- More games and access to Ubisoft+ Classics make Ultimate a richer experience than before.
- Cloud gaming improvements and rewards systems aim to increase user engagement and satisfaction.
- Players who want day-one releases will still need to subscribe to Ultimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
- 1. What is the new price for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate?
- It has increased to $29.99 per month, up from $19.99.
- 2. Which new games were added to Game Pass Ultimate?
- Notable additions include Hogwarts Legacy, Diablo IV, Assassin’s Creed titles, and more.
- 3. What changes were made to the subscription tiers?
- Core became Essential, Standard was renamed Premium, and Ultimate remains the same but with added benefits.
- 4. Does the price increase affect all tiers?
- No, only Ultimate’s price has increased. Essential and Premium remain at their previous prices.
- 5. Is Ubisoft+ Classics part of Xbox Game Pass now?
- Yes, Ubisoft+ Classics games are included in the Ultimate tier’s library.
Conclusion
Microsoft’s revamp of Xbox Game Pass marks a big change for gamers in 2026. The price hike for the Ultimate tier may be a shock, but it brings with it a substantially expanded library, improved cloud gaming, and added perks that set it apart from other game subscription services. Whether you’re a hardcore fan of day-one releases or a casual gamer looking for value, there’s a Game Pass tier designed to fit how you play.