Xbox Game Pass is undergoing significant changes in Norway as Microsoft responds to widespread concerns about rising subscription costs. The service, which provides access to a large library of games for a monthly fee, has seen multiple price increases in recent years, prompting criticism from subscribers who feel the value no longer justifies the expense. According to verified reports from Norwegian tech publications, the current pricing structure is being reevaluated by Xbox leadership to restore affordability and competitiveness in the market.
Internal communications leaked to The Verge and reported by Gamer.no reveal that Asha Sharma, who assumed the role of Xbox head earlier in 2026, has acknowledged that Game Pass has develop into “too expensive for players.” In an internal memo shared with Xbox employees, Sharma stated that the current model is not sustainable and that changes are imminent to deliver better value for money. She emphasized that whereas Game Pass remains vital for gaming on Xbox, the recent price hikes—particularly those tied to the inclusion of major titles like Call of Duty—have strained subscriber satisfaction.
One of the primary drivers behind the cost increases has been the integration of Activision Blizzard’s catalog into Game Pass following Microsoft’s acquisition. The addition of high-profile franchises such as Call of Duty contributed to a steep price rise in late 2025, especially in regions like Norway where currency exchange rates and local taxation amplified the impact. Windows Central journalist Jez Corden noted that Microsoft is now evaluating whether to remove Call of Duty from the service as a potential way to reduce costs, though Sharma has not confirmed this as a definitive solution.
Sharma has outlined a dual-track approach to reforming Game Pass: short-term adjustments to improve immediate affordability and long-term efforts to build a more flexible system. In the near term, the focus is on finding a better balance between price and content offerings, possibly through tiered pricing or promotional access models. There are indications that a lower-cost, ad-supported tier could be introduced to serve as an entry point for new users, although no official announcement has been made regarding its launch timeline or pricing.
Looking ahead, Sharma envisions a more adaptable Game Pass platform that can respond dynamically to user preferences and market conditions. This evolution will require time, testing, and feedback from both players and developers. The goal is to shift away from a rigid, one-size-fits-all subscription toward a model that offers greater choice and perceived value, particularly in price-sensitive markets.
The reconsideration of Game Pass pricing in Norway reflects broader trends in the gaming industry, where subscription services face increasing scrutiny over cost-effectiveness. As consumers grow more selective about their digital entertainment spending, platforms like Xbox must demonstrate clear benefits to retain loyalty. Microsoft’s willingness to acknowledge internal concerns and pursue structural changes signals a shift toward greater transparency and responsiveness to user feedback.
For now, Norwegian subscribers await official confirmation of the revised pricing tiers and any accompanying changes to content availability. Until then, the existing Game Pass plans remain in effect, though anticipation is building around what a reformed service might look like. Industry observers suggest that any successful overhaul will need to balance profitability with accessibility, ensuring that core gaming audiences continue to see value in the subscription while attracting new users through more accessible entry points.
As the situation develops, World Today Journal will continue to monitor official statements from Xbox and Microsoft for verified updates on Game Pass pricing, structural changes, and release timelines for any new service tiers in Norway and other global markets.
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