The latest price increase for Xbox Game Pass has made lots of gamers questions whether it’s still worth it. I was speaking to some friends recently who felt that they needed to take advantage of more of the available games to make it worth it, as when we played, we mostly used it to play Rainbow 6 Siege (which we love). I felt the same frustration that many players shared, cost of living is high, prices are going up in every part of our lives, this just felt like yet another increase where we’re getting the rough end of the stick. However, after sitting with it for a while, replaying some of my favourite titles and discovering new ones, I keep coming back to the same conclusion. Even with the higher subscription fee, Game Pass still offers access to an incredible library of games that would cost far more to buy individually. The value isn’t gone, you just need to find it.
The Frustration After the Price Increase
There’s something deeply personal about the way these subscriptions affect us. When a service that has become part of your daily routine gets more expensive, it feels like someone is gently pushing a door closed. For many players, Game Pass used to feel like a small luxury that didn’t require second thoughts. The price hike changed that tone. Suddenly, it turned into a conscious financial decision.
Even so, when I look at the full catalogue and the constant rotation of new releases, I can’t ignore the fact that we still get access to brilliant games that easily justify the cost. From first-party blockbusters via Xbox to indie gems that might never have crossed my radar, the library remains one of the richest in gaming.
An Evolving Library That Still Surprises
One of the biggest reasons I stay subscribed is the discovery element. Game Pass has a way of nudging me toward titles I might never have bought outright. Sometimes it’s a smaller adventure with a unique art style. My wife plays some of the weirder indie games, and I tend to play more of the “blockbuster” games. For me personally, I find the value in the Bethesda games that are released for free on GamePass. I’ve adored their games for over 15 years, so having access to their catalogue provides me with plenty of value. Discovery is they key though. Simply put, there are games on there that I would never have played if if wasn’t for GamePass. I can say for sure I would never have played games such as F1 Manager, Deathloop, Indiana Jones, Medieval Dynasty, Halo (I had just never played them previously) and more. And the truth is those games are great, but I wouldn’t have bought them. Especially when each game would cost £40-60. Either way, it feels like the catalogue continues to evolve rather than stagnate.
There’s also the comfort of knowing that many flagship Xbox titles launch directly into the service. This alone represents massive value. Buying even two or three of those games per year at full price would exceed the subscription cost.
Comparing the Real Cost to Buying Games Outright
I’ve always found it helpful to take a step back and compare the numbers. A single AAA game can easily cost more than a couple months of Game Pass. When I factor in the variety that comes with the subscription, the equation shifts heavily in its favour. Even if I only complete a handful of games each year, the return on investment stays strong.
For families or players who share consoles, the value multiplies. Being able to download and try games instantly without worrying about the financial commitment of full retail prices feels liberating.
The PlayStation and Nintendo Comparison
Every ecosystem has its strengths, and competitors like PlayStation and Nintendo take different approaches with their subscription models. While they both have compelling libraries, neither offers quite the same blend of day-one releases, variety and the constant sense of discovery that Game Pass provides.
Game Pass doesn’t always win on exclusives, and it has its peaks and valleys, but the balance of affordability and breadth is still hard to beat.
Is Game Pass Still Worth It Today?
For me, the answer is yes. The price increase hurt and it changed how I emotionally relate to the subscription, yet the core value remains intact. The access to brilliant games, fresh releases and hidden gems continues to outweigh the higher monthly cost. It still feels like one of the most generous ways to experience gaming today.
If you play regularly, Game Pass remains a strong investment. If you only dip in occasionally, it might be worth taking breaks between the titles you truly want. Either way, the service continues to have an appeal that’s hard to replicate anywhere else.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Game Pass still good value after the price increase?
Yes. The library remains massive, the variety is unmatched and day one releases help maintain long term value, even with the higher fee.
Should casual gamers stay subscribed?
Casual players may benefit from pausing between major titles, but Game Pass remains one of the easiest ways to try new games without big upfront costs.
Are the day one Xbox exclusives still guaranteed?
Microsoft continues to release many of its first party games into Game Pass on day one. This policy significantly boosts its value compared to competing services.
Hi, I’m Jacob. I write and edit for GameDayRoundup with a focus on football news, gaming culture and the growing world of esports. I enjoy breaking down big stories into something that feels approachable and fun to read. I’m always looking for new topics, new angles and new ways to keep our readers informed without overcomplicating anything. Writing for this site lets me share the things I follow every day and I love being part of the team.
