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Following Microsoft's latest declaration of an extensive restructuring of its gaming subscription tiers, Xbox has clarified what the updates signify for players who currently hold an Xbox Game Pass for Console in effect. As stated by Xbox, anyone who currently maintains a grandfathered Console subscription with recurring payments enabled will not be affected by the new pricing changes.

Latest Changes to Xbox Game Pass Tiers

Earlier this week, Xbox revealed that Xbox Game Pass Ultimate will now cost $29.99 monthly, a decision that sparked debate among members. This change comes with two renamed tiers—Essential and Premium—which modify the available features and do not include new titles at launch. This shift followed a prior change in 2024, which phased out Xbox Game Pass for Console in favor of Core and Standard levels. At that time, Xbox permitted current Console subscribers to keep their membership at the unchanged price of $11 per month with all perks, including the ability to play games on launch day.

“Players who are presently enrolled in the Console plan and have automatic payment renewal enabled can maintain their subscription,” a representative explained. “If users turn off recurring payments, or their membership expires, they will need to select between the Essential, Premium, Ultimate, or PC Game Pass plans when rejoining.”

Perks and Costs Stay the Same

Benefits and pricing of the Console plan will not be changing, as confirmed by Xbox: “Day one games are accessible with Ultimate and PC Game Pass plans, as well as for subscribers who continue to hold an current Game Pass for Console. Players who are presently subscribed to the Console plan and have automatic payment renewal enabled can continue their subscription at $10.99/month.”

When asked, an Xbox spokesperson declined to specify for what duration grandfathered Console plans will remain active for current subscribers.

How to Verify If You Are On a Legacy Subscription

• Visit the Game Pass website and sign in with your Microsoft account.
• Click 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” shown as an current plan, you will continue to access new releases for $10.99 monthly as long as recurring payments are enabled.

Make sure to verify if you still have this golden ticket before canceling your subscription, as it will be impossible to rejoin the plan once you cancel.