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Following the company's recent announcement of an extensive overhaul of its gaming subscription tiers, Xbox has clarified what the updates mean for gamers who currently hold an legacy Console subscription active. According to Xbox, anyone who presently maintains a grandfathered Console subscription with recurring payments enabled will not be affected by the new pricing adjustments.

Latest Changes to Xbox Game Pass Subscription Plans

Just a few days ago, Xbox revealed that its top-tier plan will now cost $29.99 monthly, a decision that sparked debate among subscribers. The update accompanies rebranded tiers—Premium and Essential—which alter the service's offerings and exclude new titles at launch. This shift came after another adjustment in last year, which phased out Xbox Game Pass for Console in exchange for Standard and Core tiers. At that time, Xbox allowed current Console subscribers to keep their membership at the unchanged price of $11 per month with full benefits, including the ability to play games on launch day.

Subscribers who are presently enrolled in Xbox Game Pass for Console and have recurring billing enabled can continue their subscription,” a representative explained. “If users turn off automatic payment renewal, or their membership expires, they will have to choose between Essential, Premium, Ultimate or PC Game Pass plans when rejoining.”

Perks and Costs Stay the Same

Benefits and pricing of the Console plan will not be changing, as confirmed by Xbox: “Day one games are available with Game Pass Ultimate and PC subscriptions, as well as for subscribers who continue to hold an current Console subscription. Players who are presently enrolled in the Console plan and have recurring billing enabled can keep their membership at $10.99/month.”

Upon inquiry, an Xbox spokesperson declined to specify how long legacy Console subscriptions will remain active for current subscribers.

How to Check If You Have a Legacy Subscription

• Visit the Game Pass website and log in with your Xbox account.
• Select your username in the upper-right section of the page once signed in.
• Click on “Account Settings.”
• If you see “Console subscription” listed as an current plan, you can still access new releases for $11 a month as long as automatic billing are enabled.

Make sure to check if you hold this exclusive benefit before canceling your subscription, as it will be impossible to rejoin the plan once you opt out.