Microsoft Delays Xbox Game Pass Price Hike in India

Microsoft’s recent Xbox Game Pass Ultimate price increase sparked controversy after raising the monthly fee from $20 to $30 for new subscribers. The higher price reflects extra benefits like 75 day one releases per year, upgraded cloud streaming quality, and added partner services such as Ubisoft+ Classics and Fortnite Crew. However, an official Microsoft communication clarified that current subscribers in some regions will not see their billing increase immediately, as long as they stay on auto-renewal. 

In India, the price for Xbox PC Game Pass rose from INR 449 to INR 939, while the Ultimate, Premium, and Essential also saw similar increases.  India is one of the regions excluded from the planned price increase for existing customers. Cancelling the subscription and rejoining Game Pass will not allow Indian gamers to continue using the service at the old prices. 

Price Hike Details and Microsoft’s Response

The updated Game Pass pricing went into effect on October 1 for new users, and was initially scheduled to apply to all existing subscribers at their next billing cycle, approximately November 4. Microsoft later sent emails to subscribers in countries including Ireland, Germany, Poland, South Korea, and India to reassure them that their subscriptions would continue at the old rate for now. The company emphasized that canceling an active subscription would result in the new price if customers choose to resubscribe later.

Microsoft’s Xbox communications team explained the staggered rollout is designed to comply with local consumer protection laws requiring advance notice before subscription price changes. While subscribers in markets like the US and UK have already experienced the new pricing, others benefit from a temporary delay to ease the transition and address customer concerns.

Players reacting to the price increase voiced frustration at having to pay significantly more, especially at a time of economic uncertainty. Microsoft has sought to position the increase as justified by the expanded service offerings and continues to monitor community feedback. For those wishing to keep their current rate, experts advise maintaining active auto-renewal and avoiding subscription cancellations. Microsoft promises to provide transparent notifications well in advance of any future price changes affecting existing subscribers.

This approach suggests Microsoft is attempting a balance between expanding Game Pass’s value and maintaining goodwill among a diverse, global subscriber base in the face of evolving market conditions.