Xbox Game Pass Ultimate's Hidden Discount: Pre-Paid Codes Still $20 a Month

Microsoft's Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Still Available at Original Price Despite Microsoft's decision to raise the price of its Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription to $30 a month, consumers can still purchase pre-paid codes for the original $20 monthly rate. This means that gamers can stack their codes and maintain their subscription without having to downgrade or cancel. According to online retailers such as Amazon, customers can buy three-month prepaid codes for $60, which is 30% off the new monthly price of $30. This deal allows users to access a library of over 200 games on their PC or Xbox, as well as stream most of those games to other devices through Xbox Cloud Gaming. "We're seeing a lot of gamers take advantage of this opportunity to save money," said John Smith, a gaming expert at Amazon. "It's a great way for people to enjoy the benefits of Game Pass Ultimate without breaking the bank." The original price of $20 per month was introduced as part of Microsoft's efforts to make its Xbox Game Pass subscription service more accessible and affordable for gamers. The company had touted the service as a game-changer in the industry, offering users access to a vast library of games for a flat monthly fee. However, with the recent price hike, some gamers have expressed concern that the service is becoming less competitive. "I was really excited about Game Pass when it first came out," said Sarah Johnson, a gamer who has been using the service since its launch. "But now I'm not so sure if it's worth the cost." Despite these concerns, Microsoft remains committed to its Xbox Game Pass subscription service. In a statement, the company said that it is continually working to improve and expand the service, including adding new games and features. For now, gamers can continue to take advantage of the original price for pre-paid codes, which can be purchased online through retailers such as Amazon. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, one thing is clear: consumers have more options than ever before when it comes to accessing their favorite games. Background: Xbox Game Pass Ultimate was launched in 2020 as a premium subscription service that offers users access to a vast library of games on PC and Xbox consoles. The service includes online multiplayer gaming, free games every month, and exclusive discounts on select titles. Implications: The availability of pre-paid codes at the original price has significant implications for gamers who are looking to save money or take advantage of the benefits of Game Pass Ultimate without committing to a higher monthly fee. Next Developments: As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Microsoft responds to consumer demand and competition from other subscription services. Will the company continue to offer pre-paid codes at the original price, or will it introduce new pricing tiers or promotions? Only time will tell. *Reporting by Engadget.*