Microsoft is reportedly considering a major redesign of Xbox Game Pass that could merge two of its subscription tiers.
According to Windows Central, the company is exploring the possibility of merging PC Game Pass with Xbox Game Pass Premium, a move that would change how much players pay and what they access.
PC Game Pass currently offers day one access to many major titles on Windows for a standalone monthly fee. Game Pass Premium now provides access to a large library of games on console and PC without a release on day one. The merger could create a single tier for players across all platforms.
What Microsoft’s Game Pass changes could look like
The idea is still in its early stages and Microsoft has not made any official announcements. According to The Verge, the proposed merger is part of broader plans for Xbox Game Pass after recent revisions in 2025.
One possibility is that PC Game Pass users could be moved to the Premium tier, which could streamline subscription offerings but could also mean they miss out on perks like certain day one releases unless they upgrade to a higher tier.
PC Game Pass is currently available at a lower monthly price compared to Premium and offers access to multiple PC games and first-party titles at launch. If Microsoft merges the two subscriptions, these benefits could be consolidated into a new unified tier with a broader range of services.
Microsoft is also exploring free, ad-supported streaming of Xbox games with playtime limits. There’s also talk that Microsoft will integrate more third-party services into Game Pass subscriptions, building on existing partnerships like EA Play, Ubisoft+ Classics and Fortnite Crew, which are already included in higher tiers.
An important question that many players may be asking themselves is whether this change would affect the amounts they have already paid or whether they would lose access to features they value most.
The report suggests that the merged structure could see PC players lose standalone access to day one releases, pushing players towards the Ultimate tier if they want the most comprehensive coverage.
These plans appear to be exploratory for now, and insiders don’t expect any major changes in 2026. If Microsoft moves forward, it could change the way millions of gamers access games across devices.
