Xbox Game Pass is rumored to undergo major restructuring in 2026, potentially eliminating the standalone PC Game Pass tier while introducing cheaper ad-supported options. The leaked information suggests Microsoft will experiment with PlayStation Plus-style tier naming and a streaming-only version with time restrictions and forced advertisements, though these plans remain unverified.
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Xbox Game Pass Restructuring: Rumored Changes
According to sources cited by ResetEra moderators, Microsoft is considering two new subscription options for 2026. One would be a cheaper tier with advertisements, while another could be free or nearly free but limited to streaming with strict time-based access and mandatory ads—similar to free-tier models used by music streaming services.
| Tier | Rumored Changes | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| Essential (formerly Core) | 50+ games, console & PC access | $9.99/month (unchanged) |
| Premium | Mid-tier option (details unclear) | TBD |
| Ultimate | 50% price increase, Ubisoft+ included | $29.99/month (up from $19.99) |
| Ad-Supported Tier | Streaming-only, time restrictions, forced ads | Low-cost or free (2026) |
| PC Game Pass | Potentially eliminated | Currently $12/month |
Ultimate Tier Gets 50% Price Increase
Microsoft officially announced Xbox Game Pass Ultimate will increase from $19.99 to $29.99 per month, effective immediately—a substantial 50% jump. This dramatic price hike includes the addition of Ubisoft+ Classics and enhanced Fortnite benefits, though the value proposition remains debatable for many subscribers.
The price increase positions Ultimate as a premium service, potentially pushing budget-conscious gamers toward cheaper tiers or the rumored ad-supported options when they launch.
PC Game Pass Elimination Concerns
The rumored elimination of the standalone PC Game Pass tier ($12/month) would force PC-only players to either downgrade to the Essential tier with limited game selection or upgrade to the expensive $29.99 Ultimate plan. This leaves a significant gap in Microsoft’s offerings for dedicated PC gamers who don’t need console access or cloud streaming.
PC gamers have historically valued Game Pass for day-one access to Microsoft first-party titles at reasonable pricing. Removing this tier could alienate a core segment of the subscription base.
Ad-Supported Gaming: Industry First?
If implemented, Xbox Game Pass would become one of the first major gaming subscription services to offer ad-supported tiers. The streaming-only model with time restrictions mirrors strategies used by Spotify and YouTube, attempting to convert free users into paying subscribers through friction.
However, gaming differs fundamentally from passive media consumption. Forced advertisements during gaming sessions could prove more disruptive than in music or video streaming, potentially harming user experience significantly.
PlayStation Plus-Style Tier Naming
The rumored adoption of Essential, Premium, and Ultimate naming mirrors Sony’s PlayStation Plus structure. This simplified nomenclature could reduce consumer confusion around Game Pass’s historically complicated tier system, though it also signals Microsoft following Sony’s lead rather than innovating.
Unverified Information Requires Caution
These rumored changes come from industry sources without official Microsoft confirmation. Given the gaming market’s constant evolution and Microsoft’s history of adjusting Game Pass structure, these plans could change significantly before implementation—or may never materialize.
FAQs
When will Xbox Game Pass ad-supported tiers launch?
Rumored for 2026 testing, but unverified and subject to change or cancellation.
What’s the new Xbox Game Pass Ultimate price?
$29.99/month (up from $19.99), a 50% increase effective immediately.
