Microsoft defends Game Pass price increase against FTC criticism, highlighting added value and no competition harm.

From Nasdaq: 2024-07-22 15:45:29

Microsoft defended its new Game Pass Standard subscription at $14.99/month, 36% more than the old Game Pass for Console. The FTC criticized the move as “product degradation” and a price increase for existing customers, calling it harmful. Microsoft argued the new service offers more value with multiplayer functionality and day-and-date releases like Call of Duty.

In response to the FTC’s criticism, Microsoft stated that the discontinued Game Pass for Console didn’t include multiplayer, which had to be purchased separately for a total cost of $20.98/month. The tech giant defended the price increase for Game Pass Ultimate to $19.99/month, highlighting the addition of new games like Call of Duty for subscribers.

Microsoft emphasized that the FTC’s concerns about competition during the Activision Blizzard acquisition were unwarranted, as Call of Duty is still available to all. The tech giant argued that there is no evidence of harm to competition, pointing out that Sony’s subscription service thrives despite offering fewer day-and-date releases.



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