UPDATE: GameStop has just announced it will continue to offer the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription at the old rate of $19.99 per month, defying Microsoft’s recent price hike. This bold move comes just days after Microsoft revealed plans to increase the subscription cost, with the Ultimate plan now set at $29.99 per month. Gamers can breathe a sigh of relief as GameStop commits to maintaining the old price both online and in-store.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on October 1, 2025, GameStop reassured customers, stating, “We will continue to sell Xbox Game Pass Ultimate for $19.99/month in-store and online.” A cheeky photo accompanying the announcement read, “You’re welcome.” This decision illustrates GameStop’s responsiveness to widespread complaints from gamers about the price increases.
The recent price hike announced by Microsoft has stirred significant backlash among gaming enthusiasts, with many opting to cancel their subscriptions. Microsoft justified the increases, claiming they are intended to provide “more flexibility, choice, and value.” However, this rationale hasn’t quelled dissatisfaction within the gaming community, particularly as the new pricing makes subscription gaming less appealing.
The price of Game Pass for PC also saw an increase, rising from $11.99 to $16.49 per month. With high-profile releases like The Outer Worlds 2 priced at $70, many gamers are questioning the value of renting games via subscription when purchasing outright offers similar costs.
GameStop’s commitment to the previous price structure offers a vital lifeline for gamers reluctant to pay the newly inflated rates. In addition to GameStop, customers can find subscription codes at the old price through major retailers such as Amazon, Target, Best Buy, and Loaded.
As this situation develops, all eyes are on Microsoft, which is reportedly exploring a free, ad-supported version of Xbox Cloud Gaming to regain consumer trust. The gaming industry is watching closely to see how these price adjustments will affect subscription rates and gamer loyalty moving forward.
Stay tuned for further updates as the gaming landscape continues to shift.
