Microsoft has commented on the reaction to the price increase and changes to Xbox Game Pass. Dustin Blackwell, responsible for gaming and platform communications at Microsoft, said in an interview that the idea was to provide more opportunities and value for different types of players.
He noted that all plans now include more games, including for PC, and that more people will be able to use games in the cloud.
Blackwell acknowledged that no one likes price increases, but explained that the company believes the new features and benefits outweigh the increase. He also said that Microsoft has tried to balance what each plan offers for casual and more avid gamers.
"We understand that price increases can be annoying, and we try to compensate for this by adding more benefits to our subscriptions. We don't do this just for the sake of it — we listen to feedback from players and the community to give them everything they really need."
Blackwell emphasized that Xbox Game Pass now offers more opportunities.
"We provide access to more than 75 new games per year. That's 50% more than last year."
He also emphasized the importance of an expanded catalog, more cloud games, and the addition of Ubisoft+ Classics and Fortnite Crew subscriptions, which are included in the most expensive plan.
