Microsoft's Gaming Subscription Members Can Still Get New Game Launches for Less Than $30 Per Month

Following Microsoft's recent declaration of a major restructuring of its Game Pass plans, the tech giant has clarified what these changes signify for players who currently hold an legacy Console subscription in effect. According to Xbox, anyone who currently maintains a legacy Console subscription with recurring payments enabled will not be affected by the updated cost adjustments.

Latest Updates to Game Pass Tiers

Just a few days ago, Xbox announced that its top-tier plan will now cost $29.99 per month, a decision that sparked debate among members. This change comes with two renamed options—Essential and Premium—which alter the service's offerings and do not include day-one game releases. The move followed another adjustment in last year, which phased out Xbox Game Pass for Console in favor of Core and Standard levels. Back then, Xbox permitted current members on the Console plan to retain their subscription at the same monthly rate of $10.99 with all perks, such as the ability to play games on launch day.

Subscribers who are currently subscribed to Xbox Game Pass for Console and have automatic payment renewal enabled can maintain their subscription,” a representative stated. “If users turn off automatic payment renewal, or their subscription lapses, they will have to choose between Essential, Premium, Ultimate or PC Game Pass plans when rejoining.”

Benefits and Costs Stay the Same

The perks and monthly fee of the Console plan will remain the same, as confirmed by Xbox: “New releases are available with Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscriptions, as well as for subscribers who continue to hold an current Console subscription. Gamers who are currently enrolled in the Console plan and have automatic payment renewal enabled can keep their subscription at $10.99/month.”

Upon inquiry, a company representative declined to specify for what duration grandfathered Console plans will stay available for current subscribers.

Steps to Verify If You Have a Console Plan

• Visit the Game Pass website and log in with your Microsoft account.
• Select your username in the upper-right section of the page once signed in.
• Choose “Account Settings.”
• If you find “Console subscription” listed as an active subscription, you can still access new releases for $10.99 monthly as long as automatic billing are turned on.

Make sure to verify if you still have this golden ticket before ending your membership, as you won’t be able to rejoin the plan once you opt out.