Xbox Game Pass Subscribers May Continue to Get Day-One Releases for Under $30 Per Month
After Microsoft's recent announcement of a major restructuring of its gaming subscription tiers, Xbox has explained what the updates signify for players who still have an legacy Console subscription in effect. According to Xbox, anyone who presently holds a grandfathered Console subscription with automatic billing enabled will remain unaffected by the updated cost changes.
Latest Changes to Xbox Game Pass Subscription Plans
Just a few days ago, Xbox announced that its top-tier plan will be priced at $29.99 per month, a controversial move among members. The update accompanies two renamed options—Premium and Essential—which alter the service's offerings and exclude new titles at launch. The move came after a prior change in 2024, which phased out the Console plan in favor of Core and Standard levels. At that time, Xbox permitted current members on the Console plan to keep their subscription at the same price of $11 per month with full benefits, including access to games on launch day.
Subscribers who are presently enrolled in the Console plan and have recurring billing enabled can maintain their subscription,” a representative stated. “If users turn off automatic payment renewal, or their membership expires, they will have to select between Essential, Premium, Ultimate or PC Game Pass plans when resubscribing.”
Perks and Pricing Remain Unchanged
The perks and monthly fee of the legacy subscription will remain the same, as confirmed by Xbox: “Day one games are accessible with Ultimate and PC Game Pass plans, as well as for members who continue to hold an current Game Pass for Console. Gamers who are currently subscribed to Xbox Game Pass for Console and have recurring billing turned on can continue their subscription at $10.99 per month.”
Upon inquiry, an Xbox spokesperson declined to specify for what duration grandfathered Console plans will stay available for current subscribers.
How to Check If You Are On a Console Plan
- Visit the Game Pass website and sign in with your Xbox account.
- Select your username in the upper-right section of the page once logged in.
- Choose “My Microsoft Account.”
- If you see “Xbox Game Pass for Console” shown as an active subscription, you can still access day-one games for $10.99 monthly as long as automatic billing are enabled.
Be sure to verify if you still have this exclusive benefit before ending your membership, as it will be impossible to rejoin the plan once you cancel.
