Xbox Game Pass could let players build their own subscription plans
Microsoft is reportedly preparing a major overhaul of Xbox Game Pass that would allow subscribers to choose which features they want to pay for rather than purchasing fixed packages.
The proposed system would introduce an à la carte model covering console games, online multiplayer and cloud gaming, according to a Fortune report, citing people familiar with the company’s plans.
Under the proposed structure, players could select individual benefits while retaining a tier-based subscription system. For example, someone interested only in console games could potentially avoid paying for cloud streaming or other bundled services.
Microsoft has not confirmed the changes, and neither pricing nor a launch date has been disclosed.
The potential overhaul comes as Xbox chief executive Asha Sharma works to restructure Microsoft’s gaming business following declining console sales and mounting pressure to improve profitability.
Xbox Game Pass currently offers several subscription tiers, including Essential, Premium, Ultimate and PC Game Pass, with different game libraries and benefits.
Next-gen Xbox could arrive in 2028
The same Fortune investigation revealed that Microsoft is targeting the 2028 holiday season for its next-generation Xbox console, internally known as Project Helix.
The company is also reportedly planning a new handheld gaming device for the 2027 holiday season.
However, hardware development has reportedly faced internal challenges. Engineering deadlines for Project Helix have been brought forward by several months, increasing pressure on development teams and encouraging greater use of artificial intelligence.
Cost could present another obstacle. Internal projections suggest the next-generation Xbox could retail for $1,200 to $1,800 unless Microsoft subsidises the hardware.
Neither the release window nor the projected price has been formally confirmed.
