According to reports, Microsoft may be preparing to make further changes to its Game Pass subscription model. The company is reportedly exploring the possibility of combining the PC Game Pass tier with the Game Pass Premium plan in order to simplify its subscription structure.
Over the past year, Microsoft has introduced several significant changes to the Game Pass service. These include launching new plans and increasing prices across various tiers.
Recent Updates
In October, Microsoft implemented major changes to Xbox Game Pass. The company replaced the Core and Standard plans with the new Essential and Premium tiers.
At the same time, it increased the price of Game Pass Ultimate, which remains the most comprehensive and expensive subscription plan.
Microsoft also added PC support across all Game Pass tiers. However, it raised the price of the standalone PC Game Pass plan, which still offers day-one access to newly released games.
Why a Merger Could Happen
According to a report by The Verge, Microsoft is considering merging PC Game Pass with Game Pass Premium.
Currently, the Essential, Premium, and Ultimate plans already provide access to PC games. As a result, the main distinction of PC Game Pass is its day-one access to new titles.
If Microsoft merges the two plans, it could create a simpler and more streamlined subscription structure.
Additionally, this move may align with speculation that the next-generation Xbox console could function more like a Windows-based PC. In such a scenario, maintaining a separate PC-focused tier might complicate pricing and potentially reduce the value proposition of the higher-priced Game Pass Ultimate plan.
No Major Changes Expected in 2026
The report suggests that Game Pass is unlikely to undergo major overhauls in 2026. Instead, Microsoft may focus on strengthening the service by adding more third-party offerings to existing subscriptions.
Currently, certain Game Pass tiers already include services such as Ubisoft+ Classics, EA Play, and Fortnite Crew.
Possible Free Cloud Gaming Tier
Earlier reports also claimed that Microsoft may introduce a free, ad-supported Xbox Cloud Gaming tier.
Under this plan, users would be able to stream cloud-compatible games without requiring a paid Game Pass subscription. The free cloud gaming option is reportedly expected to launch sometime this year.
Current Game Pass Plans in India
Here are the current Game Pass subscription plans available in India:
Game Pass Essential (₹499 per month)
Provides access to over 50 games playable on PC, Xbox consoles, Windows handheld devices, and other supported platforms. It also includes Xbox Cloud Gaming support.
Game Pass Premium (₹699 per month)
Offers a library of more than 200 games. Subscribers can access select new titles within one year of launch. Cloud streaming support is also included.
PC Game Pass (₹939 per month)
Includes hundreds of PC games along with guaranteed day-one access to new releases. EA Play content is also bundled.
Game Pass Ultimate (₹1,389 per month)
The top-tier plan offers over 500 games, day-one releases, cloud gaming, Ubisoft+ Classics, EA Play, and Fortnite Crew.
