Changes are afoot for Xbox Game Pass subscribers. Following the recent announcement that Microsoft is ending the use of reward points for Game Pass subscriptions, subscribers are finding that the price of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is increasing, a move the company describes as “service evolution.”
The adjustments to Microsoft’s gaming ecosystem haven’t stopped there.
Beyond the free titles offered through the subscription, Game Pass has been known for its additional perks. But a key benefit appears to have been quietly removed.
Xbox Game Pass: Discounts Significantly Reduced
Previously, Game Pass members enjoyed a 10% discount on downloadable content (DLC) and add-ons. This was a particularly beneficial perk for sizable DLC releases that added depth to existing game narratives. This discount is now absent. For instance, The Order of the Giants DLC for Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is now listed at full price, irrespective of Game Pass membership.
Starfield, Bethesda’s expansive space-exploration RPG, is also impacted. The Shattered Space expansion is now priced without the former 10% discount for Game Pass subscribers, mirroring the change applied to the Indiana Jones DLC.
As reported by Pure Xbox, the DLC discount feature has seemingly been integrated into the Xbox Rewards program.
Microsoft’s explanation for the change is ambiguous: “With our upgraded Rewards program, players can get up to 30 percent value on select Game Pass games, with 4x points on purchases of games and add-ons, 10 percent back in points on select Game Pass library titles and add-ons, and up to 20 percent off select Game Pass games.”
While the description suggests improved value, the actual benefits for users are unclear.
The removal of discounts extends beyond DLC and add-ons. The Call of Duty franchise is also affected. Previously, Game Pass subscribers received discounts on COD Points. However, with the anticipated launch of Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, this discount appears to have been discontinued. Game Pass members will now purchase COD Points at the standard price, like everyone else.
Hopefully, this concludes the series of unwelcome updates for Xbox gamers. Further negative announcements would likely be met with dismay.
- Released
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November 14, 2025
- ESRB
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Mature 17+ / Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Strong Language, Suggestive Themes, Use of Drugs