Xbox Game Pass Could Get Cheaper as Microsoft Plans Major Changes

Microsoft may be preparing to rethink the pricing of its popular Game Pass service, as new leadership signals a shift toward better value for players.

According to a recently leaked internal memo reported by The Verge, Xbox’s new boss, Asha Sharma, shared insights with employees about the future of Xbox Game Pass and PC Game Pass and it sounds like changes are on the horizon.

In the memo, Sharma made it clear that Microsoft does not see the current Game Pass structure as permanent. Instead, the company is actively exploring ways to improve affordability and long-term flexibility.

She reportedly stated:

“Game Pass is central to gaming value on Xbox. It’s also clear that the current model isn’t the final one. Short term, Game Pass has become too expensive for players, so we need a better value equation. Long term, we will evolve Game Pass into a more flexible system which will take time to test and learn around.”

This statement suggests Microsoft is aware of growing concerns about subscription costs and is considering adjustments to keep the service competitive.

Over the past few years, Microsoft has gradually increased the cost of Xbox Game Pass across multiple tiers. These price hikes have often been met with criticism from the gaming community.

One potential factor behind these increases is the addition of major titles—especially blockbuster franchises like Call of Duty. According to The Verge, the inclusion of such high-profile games may have contributed to the most recent pricing changes.

There are also rumours circulating that Microsoft could take a different approach with future releases. A report from Windows Central, citing journalist Jez Corden, suggests that the 2026 Call of Duty title might not launch on Game Pass immediately and potentially as a way to manage costs.

While the memo highlights Microsoft’s intention to evolve Game Pass, there’s no indication that price reductions or major updates will happen right away.

Sharma acknowledged ongoing online discussions about pricing, but any changes will likely take time as Microsoft experiments with new models.

For subscribers, this could signal a future where Game Pass becomes more adaptable and possibly offering different pricing tiers, bundles, or usage-based options.

Although nothing is confirmed yet, the key takeaway is clear: Microsoft is listening to feedback and is actively working toward making Game Pass more appealing and cost-effective.

Xbox Game Pass remains one of the most important services in modern gaming, but its long-term success may depend on how well Microsoft balances value and pricing.

With leadership openly acknowledging the need for change, gamers can expect the service to evolve but I would expect this to be an overnight change.

[source theverge.com]