Since October 1, 2025, the prices of the Xbox Game Pass have significantly increased. Many former users and players are reacting in shock and anger, but one agency knew better years ago.
Who commented on the price increase of the Game Pass? Since the Xbox Game Pass has become a little more to almost 50% more expensive depending on the tier, many players are complaining about this decision: It’s inappropriate, too expensive, and even makes “the PS Plus offer of the Playstation seem like a good deal” (Muddy Verity via X).
While many players express frustration and disappointment, a person has now responded to the discussion who already anticipated such consequences. She tried together with her agency to prevent such an outcome.
Lina Khan, who was the chairwoman of the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) at the time of Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision, responded to a X post. This post shows the rising costs of the Game Pass since the acquisition of Activision Blizzard and reports that Microsoft had stated at that time that the acquisition should not lead to rising prices for the subscription model – exactly what she and the FTC had warned against.
Microsoft is “too big to worry”
What does the former chairwoman say about the price increase? The post that Khan responded to illustrates with a graphic how the price of the Game Pass (Ultimate tier) has risen significantly and disproportionately from 2023 to 2025 since the court rejected the FTC’s efforts. The conclusion of the poster @LeeHepner: “Lina Khan was right” (via X).
Khan demonstrates with her reaction that she and the FTC could observe how similar decisions had previously led to rising prices, as “dominant companies simply become too big to worry about the consequences”:
The acquisition of Activision by Microsoft resulted in significant price increases and layoffs, which harmed both players and developers.
As we have observed in various industries, increasing market consolidation and rising prices often go hand in hand.
When dominant companies become too big to worry, they can worsen the situation for their customers without worrying about the consequences.
Lina Khan via X
How did the FTC act during Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision? The FTC had warned since its objection that Microsoft could exploit its dominant position in the market, to increase the prices of the Game Pass. To get the deal through, Microsoft made multiple promises, to which complaints followed. FTC lawyers stated that Microsoft contradicted itself and made “inconsistent” statements.
If you want to learn more about the FTC’s efforts and Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision, you can do so here on MeinMMO .
As many players feel betrayed by the Game Pass price increase, many prefer to cancel their subscription or completely turn away from Xbox. Even die-hard and loyal Xbox fans feel forced to switch to their rival due to Microsoft’s decision: User plays on Xbox for 24 years, now switches to PS5 because he is upset by a decision made by Microsoft
