Microsoft has introduced three upgraded Xbox Game Pass tiers—Essential, Premium, and Ultimate—designed to match different playstyles across console, PC, and cloud. Each plan now offers a larger game library, unlimited cloud gaming, in-game benefits, and revamped Rewards with Xbox program. This has also increased the cost of the plans.
Microsoft says these changes aim to deliver “more value, more benefits, and more great games” across every type of player.
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
The Ultimate plan has received its most comprehensive update to date. It now provides access to over 75 day one games annually, including anticipated releases like Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, High on Life 2, Keeper, Ninja Gaiden 4, and The Outer Worlds 2.
The overall library has expanded to 400+ games, with 45+ new titles added today, such as Blue Prince, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and Hollow Knight: Silksong.
Additional benefits include:
- Fortnite Crew (available from November 18) with monthly V-Bucks and Battle Pass access.
- Ubisoft+ Classics, featuring Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, and Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Breakpoint.
- Access to EA Play.
Cloud gaming has been enhanced with 1440p streaming, shorter wait times, and the full exit from “Beta.” The updated Rewards program allows Ultimate subscribers to earn up to $100 annually, with 30% off select Game Pass games, 4x points on purchases, 10% back in points on selected add-ons, and up to 20% off select Game Pass titles.
Xbox Game Pass Premium
The Premium plan offers broader access while maintaining flexibility for players.
Subscribers gain access to 200+ games across console, PC, and cloud, including hits like Minecraft, Forza Horizon 5, and Grand Theft Auto V. Newly added titles such as Diablo IV and Hogwarts Legacy are also available, and Xbox-published releases are included within a year of launch (excluding Call of Duty).
Other features include:
- Unlimited cloud gaming, including select owned games.
- In-game benefits in League of Legends, Call of Duty: Warzone, and Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege X.
- Rewards with Xbox, with up to $50 annually, 2x points on purchases, and 5% back in points on selected titles and add-ons.
Xbox Game Pass Essential
The Essential plan provides a curated introduction to the Game Pass ecosystem.
It includes a library of 50+ games playable on console and PC, featuring Hades, Cities: Skylines – Remastered, Stardew Valley, and Warhammer 40,000: Darktide.
Key benefits:
- Unlimited cloud gaming, including select owned games.
- Online multiplayer.
- In-game benefits in League of Legends, Call of Duty: Warzone, and Overwatch 2.
- Rewards with Xbox, offering up to $25 annually and points on purchases.
Pricing and Availability
In India, the pricing starts as follows:
- Xbox Game Pass Essential: First month at Rs. 99, then Rs. 499/month
- Xbox Game Pass Premium: First 14 days at Rs. 99, then Rs. 699/month
- Xbox Game Pass Ultimate: Rs. 1,389/month (previously Rs. 829)
- PC Game Pass: Rs. 939/month (previously Rs. 449)
Current subscribers will transition automatically, with Core members moving to Essential, Standard members moving to Premium, and Ultimate members remaining on the Ultimate plan.
Microsoft notes that pricing may vary by region, depending on exchange rates and market conditions.