- Microsoft hikes prices worldwide for its Xbox Game Pass service
- Also day one release feature removed from some packages
- Some fans have expressed frustration with the moves
Microsoft has announced a range of price hikes and changes to the terms for its Xbox Game Pass services across the world.
In the US, Game Pass Ultimate has increased in price from $16.99 per month to $19.99. these changes are already in effect for new members, but they won’t affect existing members until September 12.
Replacement service
Meanwhile, the $10.99 a month Xbox Game Pass Console tier will be replaced with Xbox Game Pass Standard, which will cost $14.99. But this new service will not have the day one release feature, which will be controversial as Call of Duty will be joining Xbox game Pass as a title soon as Microsoft recently bought Activision Blizzard. Users will however still have access to hundreds of games through the feature but doesn’t include online multiplayer and member discounts.
This means Xbox gamers will have to subscribe to Game Pass Ultimate if they want access to new games on the day they are released. Previously, Microsoft had said that the hugely anticipated new game Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 would be available straight away to Game Pass subscribers.
Social media
Some fans have taken to social media to point out that when Microsoft acquired Activision the company said it would not lead to higher Game Pass prices and expressed their frustration that Black Ops 6 will only be available on day one through the Game Pass Ultimate.
But others have defended the Game Pass, saying that it is still represents a good deal compared to other services on the market.
Call of Duty is one of the biggest game franchises on the market and Black Ops 6 is expected to be released on October 25.
