Hold onto your controllers, Malaysian gamers! Microsoft has recently announced a price increase for the PC version of Xbox Game Pass in Malaysia. This news comes just a few months after the service launched locally in 2022, offering a “Netflix for games” experience at a competitive price point.

Previously, the monthly subscription fee for Xbox PC Game Pass stood at RM15. This budget-friendly price point was a major selling factor for Malaysian gamers, especially compared to individual game purchases. However, starting from July 10th, 2024, new subscribers will be charged a revised price of RM20 per month. Existing subscribers will see the price hike reflected in their subscriptions starting from September 12th, 2024. This increase seems to be affecting markets worldwide.

Unfortunately, Microsoft hasn’t provided any official reasons for the price increase specific to the Malaysian market. However, on a global scale, Xbox has been steadily adding high-profile titles like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 to its Game Pass library, potentially contributing to rising content acquisition costs.

Despite the price bump, Xbox Game Pass still offers a compelling value proposition for many gamers. With access to a vast library of downloadable titles, including day-one releases from Microsoft Studios, the service remains a cost-effective way to explore a wide variety of games. Additionally, Game Pass includes perks like online multiplayer access and discounts on in-game purchases for select titles.

While Xbox Game Pass remains a leader in the subscription service space, Malaysian gamers do have other options. Competitors like PlayStation Now offer similar libraries, although their availability in Malaysia might be limited. Additionally, some publishers like Electronic Arts have their own subscription services, granting access to specific game catalogs.

The price increase for Xbox Game Pass in Malaysia might sting a bit, but the service still offers good value for gamers who enjoy variety and the convenience of a large downloadable library. However, it’s worth considering your gaming preferences and comparing options before making a decision. Keep in mind, that existing subscribers have a two-month grace period before the new price kicks in. So, this might be a good time to re-evaluate your gaming needs and decide if Xbox Game Pass continues to be the right fit for your budget.