Microsoft Gaming Reduces Game Pass Prices and Prepares New Console ‘Project Helix’

Following a leadership change, Microsoft Gaming has announced plans to revive the Xbox brand. After adopting the ‘Microsoft Gaming’ name in 2022, coinciding with the acquisition of Activision Blizzard, the company is now moving back towards its original identity. CEO Asha Sharma and CCO Matt Booty stated that Xbox’s renewed goal is to increase the number of daily active players. They acknowledged that while Microsoft Gaming encompassed the company’s structure, it had not fully achieved its ambitions or excellence.

Xbox intends to place gaming consoles at the center of its future strategy. It has formed a multi-year partnership with AMD to develop the next-generation console, codenamed ‘Project Helix,’ which promises high performance and an exceptional gaming experience. Responding to customer complaints and concerns about high service fees, Xbox has reduced the price of its Game Pass subscriptions. The monthly fee for Game Pass Ultimate has been lowered from $29.99 to $22.99, while the PC Game Pass subscription cost has dropped from $16.49 to $3.99.

However, despite these reductions, prices remain somewhat higher compared to the 50% price increase made in October 2025. Xbox has also decided to remove the ‘Call of Duty’ franchise from its ‘day-one’ launch lineup. Additionally, the company has announced plans to further enhance platforms such as Minecraft, The Elder Scrolls, and Sea of Thieves. It aims to expand its reach in China, other emerging markets, and among mobile users. Furthermore, policies regarding the ‘exclusivity window’ for certain games and the use of AI technology will be re-evaluated.