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Following Microsoft's recent declaration of an extensive restructuring of its Game Pass tiers, the tech giant has clarified what these changes mean for players who currently hold an Xbox Game Pass for Console active. As stated by Xbox, subscribers who presently maintains a grandfathered Console subscription with automatic billing turned on will remain unaffected by the updated cost adjustments.

Recent Updates to Game Pass Tiers

Just a few days ago, Xbox announced that Xbox Game Pass Ultimate will be priced at $29.99 monthly, a decision that sparked debate among members. The update accompanies two renamed tiers—Premium and Essential—which alter the available features and do not include day-one game releases. This shift came after another adjustment in 2024, which phased out Xbox Game Pass for Console in favor of Core and Standard levels. Back then, Xbox allowed current members on the Console plan to keep their membership at the unchanged price of $11 per month with full benefits, including access to day-one releases.

“Players who are presently subscribed to Xbox Game Pass for Console and have automatic payment renewal activated can maintain their membership,” an Xbox spokesperson stated. “If players disable automatic payment renewal, or their membership expires, they will need to choose between Essential, Premium, Ultimate or PC Game Pass plans when rejoining.”

Perks and Costs Remain Unchanged

Benefits and monthly fee of the Console plan will not be changing, as confirmed by Xbox: “Day one games are available with Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscriptions, as well as for subscribers who still have an current Console subscription. Players who are presently subscribed to Xbox Game Pass for Console and have automatic payment renewal enabled can continue their membership at $10.99/month.”

Upon inquiry, an Xbox spokesperson did not confirm for what duration legacy Console subscriptions will stay available for current subscribers.

How to Check If You Have a Console Plan

• Visit the Game Pass website and log in with your Microsoft account.
• Select your username in the top right corner of the screen once signed in.
• Choose “Account Settings.”
• If you see “Console subscription” listed as an active subscription, you will continue to access new releases for $11 a month as long as recurring payments are enabled.

Make sure to verify if you still have this golden ticket before ending your membership, as you won’t be able to rejoin the plan once you opt out.