Microsoft states it is "aiming to justify" the recent price hikes for Xbox Game Pass by "enhancing the service's value"

Microsoft acknowledges the discontent surrounding price hikes but emphasizes the necessity of such changes, referring to its latest decision to increase the costs of various Xbox Game Pass subscriptions.

In an interview with The Verge, Dustin Blackwell, Microsoft's director of gaming and platform communications, stated the company aims to enhance the value of its offerings, justifying the price adjustments. "We consider these decisions carefully, always integrating player and community feedback to meet their needs more effectively," he expressed.

The announcement involved increasing the cost of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, the top-tier subscription, from $19.99/£14.99 to $29.99/£22.99 monthly. Furthermore, changes were made to the Xbox Game Pass Standard, now called Xbox Game Pass Premium, and the PC Game Pass.

Blackwell clarified that these pricing changes are a result of additional content, particularly affecting the Ultimate tier. Users will now have access to over 400 global titles, including many from partners committed to bringing new games to the platform. He highlighted that subscribers would enjoy more than 75 day-one releases annually, marking a 50% increase compared to last year.

Additionally, Microsoft recently disclosed plans to increase the prices of its Xbox Series X|S consoles in the U.S., with hikes ranging from $20 to $70 depending on the model.