Xbox CEO Admits Game Pass Is Too Expensive, Plans Changes

Xbox CEO Admits Game Pass Is Too Expensive – Promises Better Value Ahead

In a surprising move that has sparked renewed hope among gamers, Xbox’s new CEO Asha Sharma has openly acknowledged that Game Pass has become too expensive and is no longer delivering the value players expect.

According to an internal memo revealed by The Verge, Sharma admitted that the current subscription model is not the final or ideal version, and that pricing has reached a point where it may be too high for many users.

Rising Prices Push Players Away

Over the past 15 months, Microsoft has increased Game Pass pricing twice, pushing the top-tier Game Pass Ultimate plan from $19.99 to $29.99 per month.

This sharp increase has led to growing dissatisfaction among players, with many choosing to cancel their subscriptions after feeling that the service no longer offers sufficient value.

For a platform built on accessibility and variety, this shift has raised serious concerns about long-term sustainability.

A New Model Is on the Horizon

In her memo, Sharma emphasized the need to find a better value equation for players in the short term, while aiming to evolve Game Pass into a more flexible system in the long run.

This could mean:

• More tiered pricing options
• Adjustments to included content
• New approaches to subscription flexibility

While no final plan has been announced, the acknowledgment itself marks a rare moment of transparency from Xbox leadership.

Why Prices Increased in the First Place

Industry analysts suggest that one major factor behind the price hikes is the inclusion of major AAA titles such as Call of Duty on day one.

While this adds value for players, it also means Microsoft is losing potential revenue from direct sales, forcing the company to compensate through higher subscription fees.

There are also rumors that Microsoft may explore:

• Lower-cost tiers with ads
• Selective removal of high-cost titles
• More budget-friendly entry plans

Content Still Going Strong

Despite pricing concerns, Game Pass continues to deliver high-quality content. Recent additions include:

• Hades 2
• Kiln from Double Fine
• Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (Remake)

Sharma has promised to reveal more detailed plans in the coming weeks, reassuring players that Xbox remains committed to delivering strong value.

A Turning Point for Subscription Gaming

This moment could signal a major shift in the gaming subscription industry.

If Microsoft successfully adjusts pricing to a more accessible range—potentially around $10 to $15 per month—it could bring back players who were previously priced out.

More importantly, it shows that even industry giants must adapt to player expectations in an increasingly competitive market.

For now, all eyes are on Xbox to see whether it can restore Game Pass as the best value in gaming.

 Origin: Engadget