Microsoft’s bold Game Pass rethink resets the rule for gaming

Gaming is getting more expensive, and everyone is feeling the pinch.

Sony (SONY) said it will raise U.S. prices for the PlayStation 5 lineup starting April 2. The standard PS5 will cost $649.99, the Digital Edition will cost $599.99, and the PS5 Pro will cost $899.99. At the same time, Microsoft (MSFT) is already charging $29.99 a month for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.

That is why a new report about Game Pass is turning heads. GameSpot, citing The Information, said new Microsoft Gaming CEO Asha Sharma is aiming for new methods to make Xbox products, including Game Pass, more appealing to a larger set of users. One idea that is being considered is cheaper Game Pass tiers.

That is the key point for both readers and investors. Microsoft has not confirmed that it is launching ads in Game Pass. What is reportedly under consideration is lower-priced options for Game Pass.

The ad-supported angle is still a possible next step. However, that is not the confirmed takeaway.