Xbox boss Dustin Blackwell has defended Microsoft’s decision to make Game Pass a lot more expensive.
Earlier this week, Microsoft announced it would be raising the price of all three Xbox Game Pass subscription tiers and changing benefits for users. Previously the most expensive Xbox Game Pass tier set players back £14.99 a month but Microsoft are now charging £29.99 for Ultimate.
“Our goal with Game Pass has been clear: deliver unmatched value, benefits, and a deep library of games for our players,” explained a blog post from Microsoft. “We know not everyone wants the same thing in their Xbox experience, so we’re evolving Game Pass to offer more flexibility, choice, and value to all players.”
As part of the “evolution” of Game Pass, more than 90 titles were added to the service but according to reports, Microsoft’s website crashed shortly after the announcement as players rushed to cancel their subscriptions.
choosing your way to play? this will help: https://t.co/6pRXMX9u4L pic.twitter.com/AdCJtBksYf
— Xbox Game Pass (@XboxGamePass) October 1, 2025
Speaking to The Verge, Microsoft’s Director of Gaming and Platform Communications Dustin Blackwell defended the price hike.
“We understand price increases are never fun for anybody, but we’re trying to reinforce by adding more value to these plans as well,” he explained. “It’s something we don’t take lightly, and we’re listening to the feedback of players and the community to try to provide them with more of what they’re asking for.”
