Microsoft Freezes Game Pass Ultimate Price Hike for Some, Who’s Still Paying Less

Microsoft’s Game Pass Ultimate subscribers just got hit with surprising news. The company’s latest price increase, one of its biggest yet, is being delayed for some regions but not for everyone. In other words, depending on where you live, you may still be paying your old rate for a while longer.

This partial delay has caused quite a stir among gamers. Some are relieved, while others feel left out. So what exactly is going on with Game Pass pricing, and why did Microsoft make this move? Here’s everything you need to know.

The Sudden Price Jump

Earlier this month, Microsoft announced a major 50% price increase for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, raising the monthly cost from $19.99 to $29.99 in the U.S. The change also rolled out to other markets with similar proportional hikes. This new price applies to new subscribers immediately, while existing ones were initially told they would automatically move to the new rate after their billing cycle ended.

However, that plan is now being adjusted, but only in certain regions. Microsoft has quietly confirmed that some existing subscribers in countries like Germany, Ireland, South Korea, Poland, and India will not see the higher rate immediately.

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Instead, they can keep their current subscription price for now. Meanwhile, in major markets like the United States and the United Kingdom, the higher pricing remains in full effect for both new and current members.

The company has promised that subscribers who are temporarily exempt will receive at least 60 days’ notice before their prices eventually go up.

Why Microsoft Is Delaying the Hike

There’s no official detailed explanation, but several factors likely influenced Microsoft’s decision.

One is regional regulation. Some countries have consumer protection laws that require companies to provide extended notice periods before subscription price changes. By delaying the increase, Microsoft is complying with these local rules while avoiding potential backlash.

Another reason might be customer sentiment. The Game Pass Ultimate price jump was steep and widely criticized. By offering a temporary freeze in select countries, Microsoft could be testing the reaction before fully rolling it out everywhere. It’s a way to manage the outrage and avoid a sudden wave of cancellations.

There’s also the business angle. The company is continuing to bundle new services into Game Pass, such as Ubisoft+ Classics and Fortnite Crew, to make the subscription seem more valuable. These additions are meant to justify the higher price, but by phasing the rollout, Microsoft can observe how customers respond to the new offerings before everyone pays more.

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What It Means for You

If you’re a Game Pass subscriber, your situation depends on where you live.

For users in the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Australia, the new pricing is already active. That means your next renewal will reflect the higher cost unless you downgrade or cancel. For those in the countries with the delay, you’re safe for now, but only temporarily. Once Microsoft decides to lift the freeze, the price will increase for you, too.

This setup creates an uneven experience for the global community. Many gamers are questioning why some countries get a grace period while others don’t. Unfortunately, Microsoft hasn’t provided a clear answer, only saying it’s due to “regional rollout schedules.”

It’s also worth noting that if you’re in a country with the delay, canceling your current plan and re-subscribing later will lock you into the new, higher price. So, if you’re still on the old rate, it’s best to stay subscribed to keep it as long as possible.

Community Reactions

The reaction from the gaming community has been mixed. On social media, many players are frustrated that the price jump was so sudden and so large. Some feel that the inclusion of new games and perks doesn’t justify such a sharp increase, especially with big titles like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 already expected to hit the platform later this year.

Others point out that Game Pass Ultimate still offers incredible value when compared to buying games individually. For $29.99, players get access to hundreds of titles, cloud streaming, PC integration, and exclusive discounts. Still, that argument only goes so far when inflation is squeezing wallets and entertainment budgets everywhere.

Tech reviewers have noted that this move reflects a broader industry trend. Subscription services across the board, from Netflix to PlayStation Plus, have been raising prices aggressively over the past year. Microsoft, however, is under more scrutiny because Game Pass was once celebrated for its affordability and accessibility.

Why the Strategy Might Work

From Microsoft’s perspective, the pricing strategy might actually make sense. By introducing the new cost slowly and unevenly, the company can monitor cancellations, adjust marketing messages, and roll out additional features before the full hike hits globally.

This kind of phased rollout is common in tech. It’s a way to test reactions without burning the entire customer base at once. Microsoft is likely hoping that by the time everyone is paying more, the service will include enough added value to make it feel justified.

The company has also started promoting the Game Pass Standard tier, a cheaper plan that doesn’t include cloud gaming but gives access to a library of titles. This could attract players who don’t want to pay the full Ultimate price but still want access to new releases.

What You Can Do Now

If you’re an existing subscriber, there are a few smart moves to make right now:

1. Check your billing region. Log in to your Microsoft account and confirm if you’ve received an email about the delayed pricing. If not, assume the new rate applies to you.

2. Keep auto-renewal on if you’re in a delay region; canceling will end your old price protection.

3. Consider stacking prepaid months. Some users in delayed countries are extending their subscriptions at the old rate before Microsoft applies the hike.

4. Monitor your email. Microsoft has promised a 60-day notice period before implementing the change for delayed regions.

Final Thoughts

Microsoft’s handling of the Game Pass Ultimate price hike is a mix of smart timing and confusing communication. The company has bought itself some time by delaying the increase for certain countries, but it also risks alienating players who feel they’re being treated unfairly based on geography.

In the bigger picture, Game Pass is still one of the most compelling deals in gaming, especially with new AAA titles launching on day one. But as the price climbs closer to $30 a month, players are starting to question how long that value will last.

If you’re one of the lucky ones who was delayed, enjoy the lower price while it lasts. For everyone else, the hike might be an opportunity to re-evaluate your subscription habits and decide whether Game Pass Ultimate still feels worth it in 2025’s gaming economy