Microsoft has rolled out a major update to its subscription ecosystem, cutting the cost of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate while quietly changing how one of gaming’s biggest franchises will be delivered going forward.
Effective immediately, Microsoft is lowering subscription prices:
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate: now $22.99/month (down from $29.99)
PC Game Pass: now $13.99/month (down from $16.49)
The company notes that pricing may still vary depending on region, but the direction is clear, Game Pass is becoming more accessible.
Call of Duty strategy takes a turn
Alongside the price drop, Microsoft confirmed a significant shift for Call of Duty.
Starting this year:
- New Call of Duty titles will not launch day-one on Game Pass
- Instead, they’ll be added around the following holiday season (roughly a year later)
Existing Call of Duty games already on the service will remain available
This marks a notable departure from Microsoft’s long-standing push to make major titles available on Game Pass at launch.
Despite the change, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate continues to offer a robust package:
- Access to hundreds of games across console and PC
- Day-one releases for select titles
- Online multiplayer access
- Xbox Cloud Gaming for streaming on multiple devices
- Exclusive in-game perks and bonuses
According to Team Xbox, the update reflects feedback from a diverse global player base. The company emphasized that there’s no “one-size-fits-all” model and that it will continue to adjust the service based on user behavior and preferences.
This move suggests Microsoft is refining its Game Pass strategy, making it cheaper to enter while being more selective about when premium franchises like Call of Duty hit the platform.
For players, it’s a trade-off: lower monthly costs, but a longer wait for some of the biggest releases.
Emmanuel Umahi
