After the company's latest declaration of an extensive overhaul of its gaming subscription plans, the tech giant has clarified what these changes signify for players who currently hold an legacy Console subscription in effect. According to Xbox, anyone who presently holds a grandfathered Console subscription with recurring payments turned on will remain unaffected by the new pricing changes.
Latest Updates to Game Pass Tiers
Just a few days ago, Xbox announced that its top-tier plan will be priced at $29.99 monthly, a controversial move among subscribers. This change accompanies two renamed options—Essential and Premium—which modify the service's offerings and exclude day-one game releases. The move came after another adjustment in 2024, which eliminated Xbox Game Pass for Console in favor of Core and Standard tiers. Back then, Xbox allowed current members on the Console plan to retain their subscription at the same monthly rate of $10.99 with full benefits, such as the ability to play day-one releases.
“Players who are presently enrolled in Xbox Game Pass for Console and have recurring billing enabled can continue their membership,” an Xbox spokesperson stated. “If players turn off automatic payment renewal, or their subscription lapses, they will need to select between Essential, Premium, Ultimate or PC Game Pass plans when rejoining.”
Perks and Costs Stay the Same
Benefits and pricing of the legacy subscription will not be changing, as confirmed by Xbox: “Day one games are accessible with Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscriptions, as well as for subscribers who continue to hold an current Game Pass for Console. Gamers who are presently subscribed to the Console plan and have automatic payment renewal enabled can keep their subscription at $10.99/month.”
Upon inquiry, a company representative did not confirm for what duration grandfathered Console plans will stay available for existing members.
How to Check If You Are On a Console Plan
- Visit the official Game Pass page and log in with your Xbox account.
- Click your username in the top right corner of the page once logged in.
- Click on “Account Settings.”
- If you see “Console subscription” listed as an current plan, you will continue to access day-one games for $11 a month as long as automatic billing are turned on.
Be sure to check if you still have this exclusive benefit before canceling your subscription, as it will be impossible to get back into it once you opt out.
