Xbox Game Pass for PC has long served as an absolute steal for gamers on PC, bringing hundreds of games at a low price of $4.99/month. I’ve been subbed since the day the service was introduced, being able to play many games and getting hours of enjoyment. With that in mind, the Game Pass team has always promised the price would be upped one day, joining the service leaving beta. That day is finally upon us. Coinciding with today’s announcement of EA Play coming to Game Pass, the service is going up to $9.99/month. This price will go into effect on September 17th, but anyone currently subscribed will keep the $4.99 price until the next billing cycle. The team took to their Twitter account to unveil the change.
We're retiring the introductory price on the 17th, but if you're already a member, you'll pay the same rate through the next billing cycle. look out for a notification on the 17th to get more details
— PC Game Pass (@XboxGamePassPC) September 9, 2020
With Game Pass coming out of Beta, the service is going into general availability across the world. While most places already have the service, some places like South East Asia (excluding Singapore) can’t purchase or play the games currently. Bringing this to the world brings many more fans to the joys of Game Pass for PC, which is always a good thing. For those in areas with the service though, things won’t change. The most you’ll get is changes to Game Pass once it leaves Beta.
While we saw this change coming, one can’t help but wonder if this is because of EA Play coming to the service. EA Play costs $4.99/month as well, making both of them a combined value of $9.99/month. Would it not make more sense to either not do it altogether or have EA Play as an opt-in payment method, with a few added benefits? It makes it a shame for those who can’t afford the price increase, as they’ll no longer have access to Game Pass’ wide catalog.
Given how this is controversial, I’d like to hear your thoughts on this change. Will you be staying subscribed after the price hike? Do you believe the services should remain separate, under the pretense that Game Pass for PC remains $4.99/month? Let us know, and stay tuned at The Nerd Stash for all your news, reviews, and more!
