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A leaked internal memo from Microsoft Gaming CEO Asha Sharma suggests that Xbox Game Pass pricing could be revised in the future, as the company reassesses the value of its subscription service amid rising costs and evolving user expectations.
According to the memo, first reported by The Verge and circulated on social media, Sharma acknowledged that Xbox Game Pass may currently be positioned above what many players are willing to pay, stating that the service has become “too expensive for players” in its current form.
While no immediate price adjustments have been confirmed, the comments indicate that Microsoft is actively exploring potential changes to the structure and pricing of its flagship gaming subscription service.
Microsoft Reassessing Xbox Game Pass Value Proposition
Xbox Game Pass remains one of Microsoft’s core gaming products, offering subscribers access to a rotating library of titles across Xbox consoles and Windows PCs. The service includes day-one releases from Xbox Game Studios, alongside third-party titles spanning major franchises and indie releases.
The subscription is currently available in multiple tiers, ranging from approximately $9.99 (around RM47) per month for entry-level plans to $29.99 (around RM142) per month for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
Despite its wide content library, the memo suggests Microsoft is reconsidering how the service balances pricing, flexibility, and perceived value.
Sharma reportedly stated that the long-term direction for Xbox Game Pass could involve evolving it into a more flexible system, though she emphasized that any such transformation would require significant testing and iteration before rollout.
Possible Structural Changes Under Discussion
Beyond pricing concerns, the memo also hints at broader structural adjustments. Microsoft is said to be exploring alternative subscription models that could better align with player expectations while maintaining profitability.
Sharma is expected to discuss these proposals further with Xbox leadership teams, although no timeline has been provided for when or if changes might take effect.
At this stage, it remains unclear whether adjustments would involve price reductions, tier restructuring, or changes to included benefits such as day-one game access.
Timing Comes Amid Industry Speculation
The leaked memo arrives during a period of increased speculation surrounding Xbox’s subscription strategy. Recent rumors have suggested that major franchises, including future entries in the Call of Duty series, could potentially skip Xbox Game Pass releases.
Such a move would represent a significant shift for the service, which has historically used high-profile day-one launches as a key selling point. However, Microsoft has not confirmed any changes regarding Call of Duty availability.
Leadership Transition and Strategic Direction
Sharma’s comments also come shortly after she assumed the role of Microsoft Gaming CEO following Phil Spencer’s retirement. Since stepping into the position, she has already addressed community feedback regarding Xbox’s platform strategy, including demand for more console-exclusive titles.
While Microsoft continues to expand its presence across multiple platforms, including PlayStation 5 releases for select titles such as Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, the company is still working on its next-generation hardware, reportedly codenamed Project Helix.
Xbox Game Pass Still a Major Player in 2026
Despite uncertainty surrounding future pricing, Xbox Game Pass remains a central pillar of Microsoft’s gaming ecosystem. The service continues to offer a steady pipeline of new releases, including upcoming titles scheduled for April 2026.
Industry observers note that while price changes are possible, Microsoft’s broader challenge will be maintaining subscriber value without undermining the service’s core appeal.
For now, however, any potential adjustments remain speculative, with no confirmed changes announced.
