Is the Xbox Game Pass price increase delayed for some users? These are the affected ones

Those affected by the price changes of Xbox Game Pass.

More stories in the category Technology

• Crash Bandicoot will have its own animated series on Netflix
• When will there be a new Call Of Duty on Switch 2? Phil Spencer responds
• Xbox Update: All the Latest News that Have Arrived to the Console and You Should Know

Don't miss anything and follow us on Google News!

---

The recent reorganization of Microsoft’s Game Pass plans (now called Essential, Standard, Premium, and Ultimate) has become a significant source of controversy and anticipation among gamers. Previously, the levels were divided into Console, PC, Core, and Ultimate, each focused on different types of users.

It’s no surprise that Microsoft is receiving criticism after significantly increasing the price of Xbox Game Pass. Although the hike has already affected many regions, some have yet to feel its impact. A service that was once praised as one of the best deals in the industry is now seen as a move that prioritizes profits over users.

Below are the reasons behind what’s really happening, why Microsoft adopted this measure, and which regions are “safe” for now:

---

Basic Aspects of the Price Increase

• Microsoft announced a 50% increase in the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate plan, going from $19.99 to $29.99 per month in major markets. This applies to all regions, except for five countries: Germany, Ireland, South Korea, Poland, and India.

• Microsoft introduced three new plans: Essential, Premium, and Ultimate. The price hike is part of a broader reorganization of the Game Pass offer.

• This policy is already active in many regions for new subscribers, meaning they are already paying the new rates.

• Microsoft clarified that, for existing subscribers in certain countries, the price increase will not be applied immediately. However, in the US and the UK, the increase will affect both new and existing subscribers without exception.

---

Reasons for the Delay in Some Regions

Legal and Regulatory Requirements: One of the reasons cited by Microsoft is that in some regions, there are different regulations regarding subscription price changes. Therefore, Microsoft must provide a minimum of 60 days’ notice before applying the new prices to active contracts.

Public Impact and Reaction: The company is aware of the effect that a significant price increase can have. The announcement has already led to cancellations, so Microsoft is trying to minimize the exodus of users by offering a margin in some markets. This also serves as a containment measure to avoid a wave of simultaneous cancellations in particularly sensitive regions.

---

Affected and Safer Regions

• Regions temporarily exempt for existing subscribers

Existing subscribers in the following markets have received an email informing them that their rates will not change for now. This measure only applies to plans with automatic renewal.

The countries are: India, Germany, Ireland, South Korea, and Poland. In these countries, the price increase will only affect new subscriptions.

However, there is an important point to consider: if an existing user cancels their subscription and then resubscribes, they will be treated as a new subscriber and will be charged the higher rate.

• Non-exempt or less protected regions

Neither the United States nor the United Kingdom are part of this protected group. Users in these regions are subject to the price increase, regardless of whether they are new or existing subscribers.

---

General Impact

Xbox Game Pass has long been considered one of the best gaming experiences available. However, the price increase could lead players in more sensitive markets to reconsider their plans. Some have already taken the following measures:

• Redeeming previously purchased Game Pass codes at old prices.

• Switching to PC Game Pass or Game Pass Core to save money.

• Exploring alternatives that can replace the service in case of cancellation.

The new structure, which was supposed to facilitate the experience, has left many users confused and frustrated. On social media, numerous voices have risen to criticize the company for eliminating the console plan, increasing prices, and introducing unclear benefits that seem to favor subscribers who pay more.

---

What This Means for You

If you’re an existing subscriber:

• Don’t cancel your automatic renewal plan if you live in one of the five countries where the increase has been delayed.

• Pay attention to Microsoft’s emails, as they should notify you before the new prices take effect.

• Consider buying gift cards or prepaid codes from reputable sources, such as Eldorado.gg and their Xbox Game Pass subscription, to secure the current price before the new rates are applied.

---

Consequences

The Xbox Game Pass subscription remains a revolutionary service, but Microsoft’s latest price change marks a . The company is counting on its most loyal user base to stay for convenience. To reinforce this loyalty, Microsoft is also offering additional promotions on Game Pass.

However, the delayed rollout in certain countries shows how regulatory protections can benefit some users, at least temporarily. If you’re an existing subscriber in one of the protected regions, you will likely not see an immediate price increase as long as you keep your subscription active. But just because it hasn’t happened yet doesn’t mean it won’t. Microsoft has indicated that the increase is imminent. Regions without legal or regulatory protection will feel the full impact of the price hike.

This situation has become an opportunity for competitors, as many users are already seeking alternatives to cope with the drastic price increase. The global change is about to arrive, and with more AAA games on the horizon, Game Pass continues to define what modern entertainment means in the world of gaming.