Microsoft has announced significant changes to its Xbox Game Pass offerings, particularly impacting the discount structure for subscribers. The company has eliminated the 10% discount on downloadable content (DLC) for Ultimate members, instead opting to provide more rewards points.
Changes to Xbox Game Pass Rewards
Starting recently, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers lost their 10% discount on DLC purchases, a feature that was highly valued by fans, especially for popular titles like Call of Duty. This change began to draw attention when the gaming community noted that discounts on COD Points and the Blackcell battle pass were no longer available.
New Reward Points Structure
- Ultimate subscribers will now earn 10% in points on select purchases.
- Premium subscribers will earn 5% in points on the same purchases.
- Ultimate members maintain a 20% discount on select Game Pass library games.
- Additional rewards: All Rewards members earn points for game purchases, with Premium and Ultimate subscribers earning 2x and 4x points, respectively.
Microsoft aims to keep users engaged within its ecosystem by encouraging full-price purchases, with the intention of reimbursing through reward points. This strategy seeks to maintain customer expenditure within its framework rather than allowing broader savings.
Price Increase and Service Enhancements
Microsoft also recently raised the price of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate from $19.99 to $29.99 per month, creating a yearly increase of $120 for subscribers. In response to this price hike, the company has promised new features, including:
- Up to 75 day-one releases per year.
- Inclusion of Fortnite Crew and Ubisoft+ Classics.
- Improvements to Xbox Cloud Gaming, which has exited beta status.
The upgrade promises better streaming quality and shorter wait times, enhancing the overall gaming experience for subscribers.
Future Implications
For gamers hoping to play titles such as Call of Duty, the new structure may force them into opting for the higher-priced Ultimate tier. The implications of these adjustments have prompted fans to reevaluate their subscription choices.
Polling data indicates uncertainty among consumers regarding Game Pass subscriptions, with a significant percentage indicating they may not continue with the service. As fans analyze the new benefits versus the increased costs, Microsoft’s recent decisions could lead to a shift in subscriber habits.
