Microsoft has recently implemented price increases for certain tiers of its Xbox Game Pass subscription service, specifically the Ultimate and PC Game Pass tiers. The Ultimate tier, which offers the most extensive selection of games and features, has seen its monthly fee rise from $19.99 to $29.99. Meanwhile, the PC Game Pass subscription price has increased from $11.99 to $16.49 per month.
Consumers wishing to subscribe are advised to avoid purchasing directly through Microsoft’s retail channels, as these reflect the new prices. Instead, those interested in continuing with the service may find better deals at various other retailers, where subscriptions are still available at their previous prices.
For instance, a one-month subscription to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate can currently be purchased for $19.99 from retailers like Amazon, GameStop, Best Buy, and Walmart. Additionally, a three-month subscription is available for $59.99, which effectively allows subscribers to receive one month free compared to the new pricing structure.
In terms of PC Game Pass, retailers like Amazon, GameStop, and Best Buy offer a three-month membership at $35.99, maintaining the previous pricing before the recent increase. These options may represent more budget-conscious alternatives for consumers looking to access these gaming services without paying the elevated subscription fees directly through Microsoft.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/tech/791012/xbox-pc-game-pass-ultimate-how-to-get-old-price