The Xbox Game Pass has completely changed the way people play video games. From casual players to hardcore fans, millions rely on this subscription service to access a huge library of titles at a fraction of the cost of buying games individually.
But with the Xbox Game Pass price increase announced in 2025, many players are asking: Is Game Pass Ultimate still worth it? Let’s break down everything you need to know — from new pricing, the best Xbox Game Pass Ultimate games, and how titles like Call of Duty Black Ops 7 fit into the future of gaming.
What Is Xbox Game Pass?
Launched by Microsoft, the Xbox Game Pass is often called the Netflix of gaming. For a monthly subscription, players get unlimited access to hundreds of games, ranging from big AAA releases to indie gems.
Works on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC
Offers both console and cloud gaming
Constantly updated with new titles each month
This service has been such a hit that many gamers now consider it an essential part of the Xbox ecosystem.
Xbox Game Pass Price Increase Explained
One of the biggest gaming headlines of 2025 has been the Game Pass price increase. Microsoft confirmed that subscription costs are going up globally, citing rising development costs and the addition of blockbuster titles to the service.
Game Pass Console → Higher monthly cost than before
PC Game Pass → Slight increase, but still cheaper than buying games individually
Game Pass Ultimate price increase → The most notable change, that it bundles console, PC, and cloud access
For many, the Xbox Game Pass price increase feels inevitable as more premium games, including Call of Duty Black Ops 7, are added to the lineup.
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate – Still the Best Value?
The Xbox Game Pass Ultimate tier is the all-in-one package that includes:
All Game Pass games (console + PC)
EA Play membership
Cloud gaming access (play on mobile/tablet via streaming)
Exclusive member discounts
Even with the Game Pass Ultimate price increase, it remains one of the best deals in gaming. Players get access to hundreds of titles, including new releases that launch day one on the service.
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Games in 2025
Some of the biggest reasons players stick with Game Pass Ultimate are the blockbuster games included at no extra cost. In 2025, here are some of the highlights:
Call of Duty Black Ops 7 – The latest entry in the iconic FPS series, launching directly on Game Pass.
Starfield – Still one of the most played sci-fi RPGs.
Forza Motorsport – A must-play for racing fans.
Minecraft – Evergreen favorite with constant updates.
Halo Infinite – Continues to evolve with multiplayer updates.
This list keeps expanding, proving that despite the Game Pass price increase, Ultimate subscribers are still getting incredible value.
Why Microsoft Xbox Game Pass Matters
Microsoft isn’t just selling consoles anymore — it’s building a gaming ecosystem. With Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, cloud gaming, and integration across devices, the brand is shaping the future of how people access games.
Key benefits of Microsoft Xbox Game Pass:
Flexibility: play on console, PC, or mobile.
Discovery: access hundreds of games you might never buy individually.
Community: multiplayer titles like Call of Duty Black Ops 7 are instantly more accessible.
Is Game Pass Worth It After the Price Increase?
The Game Pass price increase has raised eyebrows, but when compared to buying games individually, it’s still cost-effective. For example:
Buying Call of Duty Black Ops 7 outright could cost $70.
Subscribing to Game Pass Ultimate gives you COD, Halo, Forza, and hundreds of other titles for a monthly fee.
For most players, the math still works in favor of Game Pass.
Final Thoughts
The Xbox Game Pass Ultimate price increase might sting, but the service continues to be one of the most valuable subscriptions in gaming. With major titles like Call of Duty Black Ops 7 joining the lineup, along with classics and indie gems, Game Pass Ultimate remains a must-have for Xbox and PC gamers.
Whether you’re new to the Game Pass ecosystem or debating an upgrade, 2025 proves one thing: Microsoft Xbox Game Pass is here to stay, and it’s shaping the future of how we play.
