It’s a day many dedicated Xbox fans have been dreading. As of October 1, 2025, Microsoft has implemented a significant and unwelcome change to its popular Microsoft Rewards program, specifically targeting how users redeem points for Xbox Game Pass. The move effectively makes it harder and more “expensive” to get the subscription service using earned points, and it’s the latest in a series of changes that have left loyal users feeling undervalued.
What’s the Big Change?
Previously, users could directly exchange their accumulated Rewards points for Game Pass subscription time, often at a discounted rate. It was a simple, one-click process that allowed many to effectively get Game Pass for free just by using Microsoft services like Bing and playing games on Xbox. That convenient option is now gone.
Starting today, users can no longer directly redeem points for Game Pass. Instead, they must first redeem their points for an Xbox gift card and then use that gift card’s balance to purchase a subscription. In a notification to users, Microsoft laid out the new, multi-step process, which adds friction and, more importantly, effectively increases the cost. The direct redemption options were often a better value than the standard gift card conversion rates, meaning users will now have to earn more points to get the same one-month subscription.
The Community Is Frustrated, Not Fooled
The reaction from the community has been swift and overwhelmingly negative. Fans are calling this a major “nerf” to the program’s value. On forums like Reddit, users have expressed their disappointment, with many seeing this as the end of an era. One user commented, “I suspect that the loss leading phase is coming to a close and consumers will need to start paying accurately. This will be an interesting litmus test to how many Gamepass subscribers are ‘organic’ and not out of good deals.”
This isn’t an isolated incident. For months, users have been reporting other downgrades to the Rewards program, including a severe reduction in daily earning potential, the removal of popular rewards like Amazon gift cards, and a confusing new user interface that makes it harder to track progress. This latest change feels like the most significant cutback yet, directly impacting the crown jewel of the Xbox ecosystem.
A Strategic Shift for Microsoft?
For years, Microsoft Rewards has been a powerful tool for building user loyalty and subsidizing the cost of Game Pass, helping to fuel its incredible growth. These recent changes suggest a strategic shift. As Game Pass has matured, Microsoft may now be testing the true loyalty of its user base, seeing how many subscribers will stick around when the deals and freebies start to dry up. It signals a move away from aggressive, growth-at-all-costs tactics and toward a focus on direct profitability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main change to Microsoft Rewards for Game Pass?
As of October 1, 2025, you can no longer directly redeem Rewards points for a Game Pass subscription. You must now redeem points for an Xbox gift card first, and then use that balance to buy Game Pass.
Does this make Game Pass more expensive to get with points?
Effectively, yes. The direct redemption options were often a better value than the standard gift card conversion rates, so you will likely need to earn more points than before to cover the cost of a subscription.
Why are users upset about this change?
It makes a previously simple process more complicated and devalues the points they have earned. Many see it as the end of an era where Game Pass could be easily obtained for free.
Have there been other recent negative changes to Microsoft Rewards?
Yes, users have reported numerous other “nerfs” in recent months, including reduced daily point earning, the removal of certain gift card options, and a more confusing user interface.
Can I still technically get Game Pass for free with points?
Yes, but it will take more effort and more points than before. The path is less direct and less valuable.
Conclusion
While Microsoft has every right to change its own loyalty program, the latest devaluation feels like a significant blow to the most engaged members of the Xbox community. It’s a move that erodes goodwill and signals a clear shift in the company’s strategy for Game Pass. The days of easily earning a “free” subscription are over, replaced by a system that requires more effort for less reward. For the millions of users who diligently completed their daily searches and weekly quests, this change feels less like a reward and more like a penalty.