Microsoft has delayed its controversial Xbox Game Pass Ultimate price hike for some existing subscribers in select international markets, holding off on increases that were set to take effect this month.

The company confirmed that current subscribers in countries including Germany, Ireland, South Korea, Poland and India will continue paying existing rates “for now”, provided they maintain an active, auto-renewing subscription.

The move follows widespread backlash after Microsoft announced a global price increase of up to 50% for new Game Pass Ultimate users last week.

The decision does not affect Australia, the US or UK, where the new pricing has already been implemented.

Australian Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers are now paying A$35.95 per month, up from A$22.95 previously.

In an email sent to affected customers, Microsoft said: “At this time, these increases will only affect new purchases and will not affect your current subscription for the market in which you reside, as long as you are on an auto-recurring plan. Should you choose to cancel your plan and repurchase, you will be charged at the new current rate.”

The company also promised at least 60 days’ notice before any future adjustments in those markets.

Microsoft’s head of Xbox communications, Kari Perez, told The Verge that the temporary freeze is “in line with local requirements,” suggesting regional consumer protection laws are behind the delay rather than a strategic backflip in response to criticism.

The pause offers a temporary reprieve for affected gamers, but Microsoft made it clear that the grace period won’t last indefinitely.

Once regulatory notice periods expire, prices in those regions are still expected to climb.