Microsoft has placed a limit on the ability of users to extend their Xbox Game Pass subscriptions in some countries.
The Subscriptions and Billing section on the official Xbox Support website has been updated with information regarding a policy change that puts a new limit on the ability to extend Xbox Game Pass subscriptions in certain countries, including Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Singapore, Taiwan, and Turkey.
As per the details shared on the website, Game Pass Core, Game Pass for Console, and PC Game Pass can be extended to a maximum of 36 months in all countries where they’re available except for the following, where the limit is 13 months: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Singapore, Taiwan, and Turkey.
In addition, it is mentioned that EA Play can be extended to a maximum of 36 months in all countries where it’s available, except for the following where the limit is 13 months: Argentina and Turkey.
Microsoft has warned that those who attempt to redeem a code or gift card that will extend a subscription beyond its limit will receive a “Hold off extending this right now” error message, and they will need to wait until the limit won’t be exceeded. Those who wish to view their existing subscription end dates can do so by signing in to their Microsoft account’s Services and subscriptions page.
In related news, Matt Piscatella, Executive Director and Video Game Industry Analyst at Circana (NPD), took to Twitter/X earlier this year to share his views on the growth of game subscriptions, such as Xbox Game Pass. According to him, subscription growth has flattened, and subscription services on console and PC platforms account for only 10% of total video game content spending in the US. He stated that he understood some people wanting to “protect” their preferred model, but the idea that subs will become dominant is not supported by data. He claimed that game subscriptions have been more additive than cannibalistic, and offer players, developers and publishers more choice in how to play or market their games.