The long-rumored Game Pass price increase is officially happening. Microsoft recently confirmed that subscription fees for its popular gaming service will rise in October 2025 for U.S. players.
This change will impact Game Pass Ultimate, the newly expanded tier, and bundles such as the Fortnite Crew Xbox Game Pass package.
Xbox Game Pass Price Increase Schedule – Essential Dates Every Gamer Must Know
Microsoft says the new prices will take effect on October 12, 2025. Current subscribers will see the higher rates reflected on their next billing cycle after that date.
- Game Pass Ultimate: rises from $19.99 → $29.99/month
- Game Pass Premium: $14.99/month – Remain the same as the old Standard.
- Essential PC Game Pass: No increase.
Subscribers who want to cancel, downgrade, or compare tiers like Game Pass Premium vs Ultimate should do so before their billing date to avoid being charged the new amount.
What’s Changing with the New Price
Microsoft says the higher price supports more day-one releases, cloud gaming improvements, and perks like Ubisoft+ Classics. Some of these extras, including the Fortnite Crew Xbox Game Pass bundle, will be part of the Ultimate and Premium tiers.
For gamers curious about the added content, check out the full Game Pass Premium Game List to see whether the expanded catalog makes the new cost worthwhile.
Should You Upgrade or Downgrade?
The new pricing has led many players to weigh Game Pass Premium vs Ultimate carefully. Premium now includes more add-ons and exclusive content, but Ultimate remains the cheaper option if you mainly care about the core library and cloud streaming.
Final Word
The Game Pass price increase begins October 12, 2025, and will affect millions of U.S. subscribers. If you’re thinking about switching to a cheaper plan or leaving altogether, check our guide on how to cancel or Downgrade Your Xbox Game Pass Subscription Easily to avoid being billed at the new rate.
For players who love day-one titles and extras like Fortnite Crew, the upgrade could be worth it — but casual gamers may find the higher fees harder to justify.
