Microsoft's Gaming Subscription Members Can Still Access New Game Launches for Under $30 Monthly
After Microsoft's latest announcement of a major overhaul of its gaming subscription plans, the tech giant has explained what the updates signify for players who still have an Xbox Game Pass for Console in effect. According to Xbox, subscribers who currently holds a grandfathered Console subscription with recurring payments turned on will remain unaffected by the new pricing changes.
Recent Updates to Xbox Game Pass Subscription Plans
Earlier this week, Xbox announced that its top-tier plan will be priced at $29.99 monthly, a controversial move among members. This change comes with two renamed options—Premium and Essential—which alter the service's offerings and exclude new titles at launch. This shift came after another adjustment in 2024, which phased out the Console plan in favor of Standard and Core levels. Back then, Xbox permitted current Console subscribers to retain their subscription at the unchanged monthly rate of $10.99 with full benefits, such as access to games on launch day.
“Players who are currently enrolled in Xbox Game Pass for Console and have recurring billing activated can maintain their subscription,” an Xbox spokesperson stated. “If users disable automatic payment renewal, or their subscription lapses, they will have to choose between the Essential, Premium, Ultimate, or PC Game Pass plans when resubscribing.”
Perks and Costs Stay the Same
The perks and monthly fee of the Console plan will not be changing, as confirmed by Xbox: “Day one games are available with Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscriptions, as well as for members who still have an active Console subscription. Gamers who are currently enrolled in the Console plan and have automatic payment renewal enabled can keep their membership at $10.99 per month.”
When asked, an Xbox spokesperson did not confirm how long legacy Console subscriptions will stay available for existing members.
How to Verify If You Have a Console Plan
- Go to the official Game Pass page and sign in with your Microsoft account.
- Select your profile name in the upper-right section of the screen once signed in.
- Click on “Account Settings.”
- If you see “Xbox Game Pass for Console” listed as an current plan, you will continue to get day-one games for $10.99 monthly as long as automatic billing are enabled.
Be sure to check if you hold this golden ticket before ending your membership, as you won’t be able to rejoin the plan once you cancel.
