Over the past year, we've seen Microsoft abandon its console exclusivity plan and instead hedge all of its bets on making every device with a screen an Xbox. From what we can see, this strategy appears to be working; we recently witnessed Sony's PS5 charts dominated by Microsoft's offerings, which was a sign that Xbox was no longer competing in the console wars. If anything, it was trying to get rid of the console wars.

One of Microsoft's biggest players in this "Xbox-ification" of devices is the Game Pass. With a huge library of games, plus access to the Xbox Cloud Gaming service, people can play triple-A titles on pretty much any device that will allow it. It makes sense, then, that Microsoft would reveal a big, sweeping upgrade for its paid Game Pass plans as it attempts to carve out its own niche in the gaming scene.

Microsoft reveals its plans for its Game Pass subscriptions

Over on the Xbox Wire, Microsoft outlines its plans for the Game Pass subscription service. The Game Pass has three different plans: Essential, Premium, and Ultimate. For its biggest plan, Ultimate, the company is offering 75 day-one releases a year, premium-quality options, and reduced wait times for Cloud Gaming, as well as access to Fortnite Crew. The Fortnite alone usually costs $12/month, and unlocks the Fortnite Battle Pass, 1,000 V-Bucks every month, and other options.

Ultimate subscribers also gain access to Ubisoft+ Classics, which typically costs $16/month. This unlocks a "curated selection of Ubisoft games" that adds even more value to the plan. Finally, Ultimate subscribers can earn up to $100 per year through Microsoft's Rewards plan, simply by playing games, which can be redeemed for discounts on games and DLC. Unfortunately, this does mean the Ultimate plan is getting a $10 increase to $29.99 a month, so we'll see if this added content is enough to tide people over.

The Premium plan remains at $14.99 and is receiving 40 new games on PC today. Subscribers will also receive Xbox-published games "within a year of their launch," which excludes Call of Duty games. Additionally, Premium players receive unlimited cloud gaming and $50 per year in the Store through the Rewards plan.

Finally, the Essentials plan, which Microsoft aims to be a stepping stone to the other plans, includes a curated list of over 50 games, plus unlimited cloud gaming and a $25 annual subscription via Rewards with Xbox. It's very clear that Microsoft's intent is for this plan to act as a "taster" for the bigger ones, so you shouldn't expect a ton from it.

All of these changes take effect today, so if any of them catch your attention, you can subscribe and get started right away. If you're already an Ultimate subscriber, you should see the 50% price increase appear soon. Standard subscribers are being upgraded to Premium, and Core members will be transitioned to the Essential tier.