On the heels of significant price increases for Xbox Game Pass subscriptions, Microsoft has implemented another unexpected change for its subscribers. The company has quietly confirmed that it is removing the DLC discounts that come with subscriptions and were a significant benefit for players. Instead, it was announced that subscribers will receive Microsoft Rewards points back for DLC purchases. This is a development that is considered to significantly reduce the service’s appeal.

Game Pass isn’t as profitable as it used to be

In a statement to multiple tech news sites, Microsoft stated that the change is not specific to a specific game but covers DLC and in-app purchases for all games in the Game Pass library. Under the new change, Ultimate subscribers to the top-tier package will receive 10% of eligible purchases back in Rewards points. Premium members will receive 5%. This system replaces the instant discount advantage of the old system, forcing players to use indirect store credit.

Earlier this month, Microsoft announced that the goal of Game Pass is to “provide unparalleled value” through its extensive game catalog. This announcement even announced that 45 new games would be added to the library alongside the price increase. However, with the removal of DLC discounts, players are now missing out on the immediate 10% discount and are forced to accumulate points instead. This move has eliminated the direct cost advantage of a subscription and has led members to question the overall value they receive from the subscription service.

All of these developments, especially considering the price increase and the accompanying loss of benefits, may lead some Game Pass members to reconsider their decision to renew their subscriptions. While such sudden changes may upset players, there are still ways to purchase subscriptions at the previous discounted prices through prepaid codes.

Microsoft’s successive moves raise questions about the service’s future value. What are your thoughts on these changes? Do you plan to maintain your Game Pass subscription?