Microsoft Changing Game Pass Subscription Limits; Makes ‘Stacking’ Much Harder

Microsoft has changed the subscription rules for different Xbox Game Pass tiers in several countries. Subscribers in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Singapore, Taiwan, and Türkiye who are using Game Pass Core, Game Pass for Console, and PC Game Pass now have a maximum extension limit of 13 months. This change also applies to EA Play memberships in Argentina and Türkiye.

As shown in the tweet revealing this change, the old system let users “stack” subscriptions, potentially extending their service up to 36 months. This new limit is probably a way to prevent a common cost-saving strategy: using VPN services and buying subscriptions from regions with better prices to get longer memberships. It’s common practice, and to be honest, they let it go on for far too long.

The reason it’s unfair is because the countries where people pretend to be from have a lower economic cost of living. They make a lot less, so Microsoft charges them a lot less so they can still enjoy what we all do. This price matches their cost of living, and everyone is happy. However, when you are from the US and try to get their prices and stack them over the years, it’s like taking unfair advantage of the company to lower costs in other nations.

From a business standpoint, this change aligns with an internationally consistent pricing model. However, it could affect users in some regions more than others, particularly those with weaker economies and currency values.

• Game Pass Ultimate can be extended to a maximum of 36 months in all countries where it’s available.
• Game Pass Core, Game Pass for Console, and PC Game Pass can be extended to a maximum of 36 months in all countries where they’re available except for the following, where the limit is 13 months: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Singapore, Taiwan, and Türkiye.
• EA Play can be extended to a maximum of 36 months in all countries where it’s available, except for the following, where the limit is 13 months: Argentina and Türkiye.

Microsoft’s changes

While Game Pass Ultimate’s 36-month limit remains unchanged, this adjustment significantly affects subscribers of the other Game Pass tiers in the specified countries. Microsoft has explained the change in detail, along with the limits and supported regions, on its website.

The change has led to different opinions among users. Some see it as a good way to keep prices fair and prevent users from exploiting price differences between regions. However, others in regions where Game Pass is relatively expensive compared to wages feel it will make it harder to afford long-term memberships.

Overall, the changes to Game Pass subscription rules show how tricky it can be to offer services at different prices in various parts of the world. Microsoft wants to make the prices stay at a rate that is affordable, but the effect on customers varies depending on where they live. We’ll see if they continue to change based on this stacking trick.