Xbox Game Pass Adds June Blockbusters, But Fans Protest Price Hike

Xbox Game Pass subscribers received a thrilling lineup of new titles this June, with standout additions like *Assassin’s Creed Mirage*, *Resident Evil 4 Remake*, and *Octopath Traveler II* joining the service. While the impressive list has gamers buzzing with excitement, Microsoft’s simultaneous announcement of a price hike has sparked unrest across the community.

The price of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is set to increase from $14.99 to $17.99 per month starting July 1st. The standard console tier will also rise, moving from $10.99 to $12.99. Microsoft cited “ongoing investments” in content and cloud infrastructure as reasons for the bump, emphasizing the value delivered by new titles and day-one releases.

But many fans aren’t convinced. Social media lit up with backlash shortly after the news broke, with users pointing out that this marks the second price hike in just under 12 months. “Game Pass used to be the best deal in gaming,” said Reddit user TechNerd77. “Now it’s starting to feel like cable all over again.”

Despite the controversy, the June additions are undeniably strong. *Resident Evil 4 Remake*, which set a new standard for modern reimaginings when it launched in March 2023, brings high-intensity survival horror to subscribers. Meanwhile, *Octopath Traveler II*, a critically acclaimed JRPG with unique dual protagonists and stunning HD-2D visuals, caters to genre enthusiasts. *Assassin’s Creed Mirage*, a return to the franchise’s stealth roots set in Baghdad, provides further variety.

Analysts say the new additions are part of Microsoft’s strategy to compete with the growing library of Sony’s PlayStation Plus Extra service, though they’ll have to walk a tightrope to maintain goodwill. “Microsoft is trying to justify the value with big games, but consumers are sensitive to timing,” said games industry analyst Sarah Lee. “If it looks like a bait-and-switch, there’s going to be pushback.”

Whether the uproar will impact the service’s subscriber numbers remains to be seen. But one thing’s clear: Microsoft is betting big on Game Pass’s future—even if it comes at a steeper price.