Microsoft is set to implement substantial price hikes for Xbox Game Pass across various global markets, including South Africa, impacting popular subscriptions like Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
In South Africa, starting in September, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate will surge by 54.2%, escalating from $7.1 to $11 per month. Similarly, the price of Game Pass Core will increase by 66.8%, rising from $26 per year to $44.1. These adjustments are notably steeper than price increases in other regions, such as the US, where Xbox Game Pass Ultimate will rise by 17.7%, reaching $19.99 monthly.
Despite the stability of the exchange rate against major currencies like the euro and dollar over the past year, Microsoft’s decision to raise prices in South Africa reflects a broader strategy amidst market shifts and upcoming game launches.
In addition to these changes, Microsoft has revised pricing for PC Game Pass across several markets, including South Africa. New members will now pay $6.6 per month, up from $4.4 previously, while similar adjustments apply to other subscription tiers.
The announcement precedes the arrival of high-profile titles like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 to Game Pass, underscoring Microsoft’s ongoing investment in its gaming ecosystem.
According to reports, Microsoft also plans to introduce a new “standard” subscription tier in the coming months, excluding day-one access to first-party Xbox games. Specific pricing for this tier in South Africa has yet to be disclosed.
These price increases, which will take effect in September, mark Microsoft’s strategic move to align its subscription offerings with evolving market dynamics and content strategies.
