Microsoft is reportedly planning a major overhaul of Xbox Game Pass that would allow subscribers to select individual benefits rather than paying for a package containing features they do not need. The proposed à-la-carte subscription model could introduce optional add-ons for console games, cloud gaming and online multiplayer within a revised tiered structure.
The plans were detailed in an October 20, 2026, Fortune report by Sebastian Herrera, citing people familiar with Xbox’s strategy. The changes are part of a broader effort led by Xbox CEO Asha Sharma to restructure Microsoft’s gaming business and improve its appeal to players.
Under the reported system, Game Pass subscribers would have more flexibility in choosing which services they receive. Instead of relying entirely on predefined subscription packages, players could potentially select benefits suited to how they use Xbox.
For example, someone primarily interested in playing games locally on an Xbox console might not need cloud gaming access. Similarly, players focused on online multiplayer could potentially subscribe to the features they use without paying for a broader collection of services. These are possible applications of the proposed model rather than confirmed subscription configurations.
Fortune specifically identifies console-only games, cloud gaming and multiplayer as features being considered for the revised structure. However, the report does not establish whether each would become a completely independent subscription or how individual add-ons would be combined with existing tiers.
The proposed changes follow earlier adjustments to Game Pass pricing under Sharma’s leadership. In April 2026, Microsoft reduced the monthly US price of Game Pass Ultimate from $29.99 to $22.99 and PC Game Pass from $16.49 to $13.99. The company also changed its approach to new Call of Duty releases, removing future entries from day-one Game Pass availability.
A more customizable subscription structure could give Microsoft another way to address affordability concerns while retaining players who use different parts of the Xbox ecosystem. However, lower overall subscription costs are not guaranteed. The final price would depend on the base tier, the cost of individual add-ons and which benefits Microsoft chooses to bundle together.
The potential overhaul also comes as Microsoft expands its gaming strategy beyond traditional consoles. Sharma is overseeing development of Project Helix and additional Xbox devices for portable gaming, which could make the distinction between console, PC and cloud gaming subscriptions increasingly relevant.
For now, Microsoft continues to offer Game Pass through its existing subscription structure, with different tiers providing access to different game libraries and benefits. The October 2026 Game Pass lineup, including Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade and Mouthwashing, illustrates how game availability and subscription eligibility currently vary between tiers.
Microsoft has not formally announced the reported à-la-carte overhaul, published pricing for individual benefits or confirmed when a revised subscription system might launch. It also remains unclear whether existing subscribers would be migrated automatically or offered the option to retain their current plans.
Until Microsoft provides an official announcement, the customizable Game Pass structure remains a reported plan rather than a confirmed change to the service.
