Xbox Game Pass May Restructure Plans, Merging PC and Premium Packages
Recent reports suggest Microsoft may make further changes to its Xbox Game Pass service. Following the October 2025 price increase for the Game Pass Ultimate tier to $29.99 per month, which added nearly 50 new games and guaranteed more than 75 first-day releases per year, fans have had to reconsider the value proposition of the service.
Expanding Partnerships
According to Tom Warren from The Verge, Microsoft is testing ways to expand Game Pass offerings. One potential strategy is increasing integration with third-party services. Currently, Game Pass Ultimate includes partnerships with Fortnite Crew, Ubisoft+ Classics, and EA Play. Adding new partners could differentiate Xbox Game Pass in an increasingly competitive gaming subscription market.
Merging PC and Premium Packages
Another potential change under consideration is merging Xbox Game Pass Premium with PC Game Pass. The current PC Game Pass costs $16.49 per month and is limited to PC play, excluding cloud or console access. A combined package could simplify subscription options while providing broader access across multiple platforms, improving overall value for users.
Timeline and Outlook
Tom Warren cautions that major changes are unlikely in 2026. Xbox only recently adjusted its pricing and subscription structure at the end of 2025. Additionally, PC Game Pass membership continues to grow steadily, so Microsoft is not expected to make rapid changes this year, allowing users time to adapt to the recent adjustments.
Looking ahead to hardware, AMD reports suggest the next Xbox console may launch in 2027. Rumors indicate this could be a PC-console hybrid, aligning with the company’s recent push into portable gaming through the ROG Ally Xbox device in 2025. This demonstrates Xbox’s strategy to evolve into a platform playable anywhere and on multiple devices.
Conclusion
In 2026, Xbox Game Pass subscribers are likely to continue with the current structure while possibly gaining new perks through third-party partnerships. Those interested in new Microsoft consoles or portable devices should follow updates closely, as upcoming hardware appears focused on premium performance and expanded features.
Origin: Insider-Gaming
