Get the latest Xbox Game Pass news for Australia. We cover the massive addition of Call of Duty, upcoming games like Forza Horizon 6 and Subnautica 2, plus full details on the 2026 price increase and new subscription tiers.
Xbox Game Pass AU: CoD, Forza 6 & 2026 Price Updates
Xbox Game Pass AU: CoD, Forza 6 & 2026 Price Updates
Breaking Xbox Game Pass News Today
Keeping up with all the xbox game pass news can be a full-time job, but we’ve got you covered with the latest updates for Aussie gamers. As of 2026, the service continues to evolve, bringing massive new titles, structural changes, and exciting future prospects. From the latest additions announced on the official Xbox Wire to global tier adjustments, here’s what’s happening right now. While much of the xbox game pass news usa and xbox game pass news uk focuses on regional server upgrades, Australia is seeing some of the biggest library updates yet. For a complete overview of what’s available Down Under, check out our comprehensive guide to Xbox Game Pass in Australia.
Call of Duty Enters the Game Pass Catalogue
The biggest xbox game pass news today is undoubtedly the full integration of the Call of Duty franchise. Following the landmark acquisition of Activision Blizzard by Microsoft, the entire back catalogue and all new releases are now part of the service. For gamers wondering about call of duty game pass access, you’ll need Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to play new titles like this year’s *Modern Warfare IV* on day one. This move solidifies Game Pass as the ultimate destination for fans of first-person shooters and flagship microsoft games.
Huge Upcoming Games (2025 – 2026)
The future of Game Pass looks incredibly bright with a slate of highly anticipated titles. Topping the list of upcoming games 2026 is the confirmed release of Forza Horizon 6, which is set to take the iconic racing festival to Japan. Another huge announcement is Subnautica 2, which will not only expand on the beloved underwater survival formula but will also finally introduce the long-requested subnautica multiplayer co-op mode. These two titles alone represent massive value and are among the most anticipated new games 2026 for the platform.
Games Leaving Game Pass Soon
It’s always sad to see games go, but it’s a necessary part of the service’s rotation to make way for new titles. Here are some of the key games leaving game pass at the end of this month. Make sure you play them before they’re gone, or buy them at a discount! For the most accurate, up-to-the-minute list, be sure to check your xbox game pass newsletter or the “Leaving Soon” tab on your console dashboard.
- Control (Console, PC, Cloud)
- The Outer Worlds (Console, PC, Cloud)
- Undertale (Console, PC, Cloud)
- Ghostrunner (Console, PC, Cloud)
Summary
This article is your go-to source for all the latest xbox game pass news in Australia for 2026. You’ll find everything you need to know about the recent price increases and new subscription tiers, including a breakdown of what each level offers. We also dive into the massive new games coming to the service, like Call of Duty and the highly anticipated Forza Horizon 6 and Subnautica 2. Plus, you’ll get the scoop on next-gen Xbox hardware rumours, the growth of cloud gaming, and answers to your most frequently asked questions.
TLDR
- Call of Duty is on Game Pass: All new titles, including this year’s release, are available day one with an Ultimate subscription.
- Prices Have Increased: You’ll find a new tier structure and updated pricing for all Xbox Game Pass plans in Australia.
- Major Games Confirmed: You can look forward to Forza Horizon 6 and Subnautica 2 (with multiplayer) arriving on the service at launch.
- New Xbox Rumours: The next-generation Xbox console is rumoured to be targeting a late 2026 release.
📑 Table of Contents
Xbox Game Pass Price Increase and Tier Restructuring
One of the biggest pieces of xbox game pass news this year has been the complete overhaul of the subscription tiers and a global price adjustment. These changes affect both new and existing members, streamlining the options available while reflecting the growing value of the catalogue. For those on a budget, it’s always worth checking for student discounts on gaming subscriptions which can help soften the blow of price adjustments. The primary goal from Microsoft seems to be pushing users towards its all-inclusive Ultimate tier.
Comparing the New Game Pass Tiers
Navigating the new xbox game pass tiers is simpler than before. The old “Console” tier has been phased out for new members, replaced by a “Standard” tier. Here’s how they stack up:
- Game Pass Core: This is the new version of Xbox Live Gold. It provides online multiplayer access and a curated library of over 25 high-quality games.
- Game Pass Standard: This tier gives you access to the full console game catalogue, including day-one first-party titles. It does not include online multiplayer.
- PC Game Pass: The dedicated option for PC gamers. It includes the full PC catalogue, day-one releases, and an EA Play membership.
- Game Pass Ultimate: The top-tier offering, also known as game pass premium. It bundles Core, Standard, and xbox pc game pass together. It also includes EA Play, exclusive perks, and access to Xbox Cloud Gaming.
How Much Does Xbox Game Pass Cost Now?
The recent xbox game pass news price increase has been implemented across Australia. Here are the current recommended retail prices (RRP) for new subscribers:
- Game Pass Core: $11.95 per month / $95.60 for 12 months
- Game Pass Standard: $13.95 per month
- PC Game Pass: $12.95 per month
- Game Pass Ultimate: $19.95 per month / $239.40 per year
When you look at the xbox game pass news price, the value of an xbox game pass ultimate 12 months subscription becomes clear, offering a significant saving over a rolling monthly plan and answering the question of how much is xbox game pass ultimate with a more cost-effective annual option.
Xbox Series X Hardware and Cloud Gaming
The Game Pass experience is intrinsically linked to the hardware that powers it. As the Xbox Series X matures, all eyes are turning to what’s next for Microsoft’s console family and how cloud technology will shape the future of gaming.
rumours
Next-Gen Xbox Rumours: When is the New Xbox Coming Out?
The number one question in the community is, “when is the new xbox coming out?” While the original xbox series x release date was back in late 2020, persistent industry leaks and analyst predictions point towards a new xbox 2026 launch window. This next-gen console is expected to be built from the ground up to leverage cloud technology, potentially offering a digital-only version that relies heavily on Game Pass for its entire library.
The Growth of Cloud Gaming on Xbox
Cloud gaming xbox has moved from a niche feature to a core pillar of the ecosystem. Included with an ultimate game pass subscription, it allows you to stream hundreds of high-quality games directly to your phone, tablet, laptop, or smart TV, no console required. This microsoft ultimate perk means you can play graphically intensive games like *Starfield* or *Microsoft Flight Simulator* on a device that wouldn’t normally be able to run them, making high-end gaming more accessible than ever before.
Community Reactions and Official Support
Major changes to a beloved service always spark a lot of conversation. Here’s a look at how the community is reacting to the latest news and how you can get help if you need it.
What the Reddit Community is Saying
The general sentiment on the r/XboxGamePass subreddit is cautiously optimistic. According to most xbox game pass news reddit threads, users are thrilled with the addition of the Call of Duty library, seeing it as a massive value-add that justifies the price increase for many. However, some are disappointed by the removal of the old “Console” tier, feeling it pushes them towards the more expensive Ultimate subscription even if they don’t need PC or Cloud gaming.
Xbox Customer Support and Redeeming Codes
If you’ve purchased a prepaid subscription card, you’ll need to know how to xbox redeem code. The process is simple:
- Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the guide.
- Select “Store”.
- Press the “View” button to open the side menu, and then select “Redeem”.
- Enter the 25-character code and follow the prompts.
💡 Pro Tip: For any billing issues or account problems, the best place to go is the official xbox support website. Avoid third-party services and contact xbox customer service directly for secure and reliable help.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much is Game Pass Ultimate in Australia?
The current game pass ultimate price in Australia is $19.95 per month. This all-in-one subscription includes access to the console and PC game catalogues, online multiplayer, EA Play, and Xbox Cloud Gaming, making it the most comprehensive xbox game pass cost tier.
Can I get Xbox Game Pass for PC only?
Yes, you absolutely can. Xbox Game Pass for PC is a standalone subscription. The current pc game pass price is $12.95 per month in Australia, and it includes the full PC library, day-one access to new Microsoft titles, and an EA Play membership at no extra cost.
Is Forza Horizon 6 confirmed for Game Pass?
Yes. While we are still waiting for a precise release date to answer “when is forza 6 coming out“, it has been confirmed that as a first-party Microsoft and Xbox Game Studios title, Forza Horizon 6 will be available on Game Pass from the very first day of its global launch.
Does Xbox Game Pass Ultimate include a 12-month option?
Yes, though it’s typically found via third-party retailers. While Microsoft’s own store focuses on 1-month and 3-month subscriptions, you can purchase an xbox game pass ultimate 12 month code from authorised sellers. This is often the most cost-effective way to subscribe for a full year.
Where can I find the official Xbox Game Pass newswire?
The official source for all announcements is Xbox Wire. This is the official blog and xbox game pass newswire where Microsoft posts all news, game announcements, developer interviews, and the bi-weekly updates detailing which games are coming to and leaving the service.
Written by
Ruby Walker
