Microsoft Responds to FTC on Game Pass Pricing

Microsoft has responded to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) claim that recent price and tier changes to Xbox Game Pass would harm consumers. In a new filing, Microsoft states that the FTC’s allegations are misleading. They argue that the discontinued Xbox Game Pass for Console did not offer multiplayer functionality, which required an additional fee. The updated Game Pass Ultimate, despite its price increase from $16.99 to $19.99/month, provides greater value with new games available “day-and-date,” including Call of Duty. Microsoft asserts that the FTC’s focus during the Activision Blizzard trial was misplaced, emphasizing that there is no evidence of harm to competition.