Xbox Game Pass lowers prices and introduces possible new flexible bundles

Microsoft recently announced that the price of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscriptions will be significantly reduced. This price cut comes amid changes to the service’s lineup, including the loss of day-one Call of Duty releases, which will affect different users in different ways.

Price cut and changes to the lineup

On 21 April 2026, Microsoft officially announced that the price of the Ultimate tier of Xbox Game Pass has been lowered from €30 to €23 per month. However, this change also means that popular Call of Duty games will no longer be available to subscribers on day one. The news has sparked mixed reactions, ranging from disappointment among die-hard Call of Duty fans to relief among users who are less interested in the franchise.

Flexibility in subscription options

In addition, Jez Corden of Windows Central reports that even more significant changes may be on the way. Customers could eventually be able to build their own Game Pass bundles, choosing specific content and features based on their personal preferences. This points to a shift toward a more flexible model, where users can decide which parts of the service they want included, potentially saving money if they do not need certain features.

What users should watch for

With these announced changes, questions are being raised about what else could be removed from Game Pass beyond Call of Duty. The reporting also raises concerns about the future of other content, such as access to EA Play and Ubisoft Classics. Many worry the service could lose more of its value if additional popular titles disappear. Even so, the mood among gamers remains optimistic, with hopes that users will be able to tailor their subscription to match their gaming habits.

Timeline

21 April 2026: Microsoft announces a price cut for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate from €30 to €23.
21 April 2026: The package will no longer include day-one Call of Duty releases.
22 April 2026: Jez Corden reports that new flexible Game Pass bundles may be coming, allowing users to select their own options.

The Xbox Game Pass price cut is a clear response from Microsoft to recent criticism over the service’s pricing and lack of compelling value. Losing Call of Duty from the day-one lineup suggests Microsoft is trying to create a more competitive and attractive offer by lowering the cost of access. Future flexibility in the lineup could also mark a new direction for how gaming subscriptions are positioned in the industry.