Xbox Game Pass is arguably one of the greatest gaming subscription services of all time. It released in 2017 and completely changed the gaming world. During that time, we saw subscription services in TV and film with Netflix and in music with Spotify. Although, there wasn’t a gaming subscription that even came close.
Microsoft introduced Xbox Game Pass subscription service to give gamers a huge catalog of games to play. Since its release, Microsoft has reported there are over 25 million subscribers. The best part is, Xbox Game Pass isn’t exclusive to Xbox consoles. It’s available on PC, mobile, and even Steam Deck. Here’s what you need to know in order to decide if you should get Xbox Game Pass.
What is Xbox Game Pass?
Xbox Game Pass allows users to play over 100 games wherever and whenever they want. New games are added all the time, and games from Xbox Game Studios are added the day of release. So massive games like Halo Infinite was available on Xbox Game Pass on its release date. You also get discounts and deals to Xbox games, in-game items, and more.
You can learn more about Xbox Game Pass in my video with AdoramaXP:
The Plans
There are three different plans of Xbox Game Pass, and each plan has its own perks. Here is a breakdown of each plan and what they offer.
Xbox Game Pass for Console
- $9.99 a month
- Only works on Xbox consoles
- Access to the entire Xbox Game Pass library, and new games added in the future
- Access to Xbox Game Studios titles on their release date
- Member discount and deals
This plan is perfect for console gamers who don’t require PC gaming. It’s an amazing value to jump back into retro games, or play newer games that are on your list.
Xbox Game Pass for PC
- $9.99 a month
- Only works on PC
- Access to the PC Game Pass library, and new games added in the future
- Access to Xbox Game Studios titles on their release date
- Member discount and deals
- Access to EA Play (a library of top EA games on PC, exclusive rewards, and member-only content0
This plan is focused on the PC gamer in your life. If you don’t own a console but still want to play Xbox titles, this plan is for you. Just make sure the games you want to play are accessible on PC before jumping into this plan.
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
- $14.99 a month
- Works on console, PC and mobile devices
- Access to the entire PC, Xbox and mobile gaming library, and new games added in the future
- Access to Xbox Game Studio titles on their release date
- Member discount and deals
- Play games from the Cloud (see below)
- Free perks including in-game content and partner offers
- Access to EA Play
- This plan also includes Xbox Gold (see below)
This is the best plan for your money. You can access the entire library on console, PC, and mobile. If you tend to travel a lot and not download games directly to your device, then you’ll love Cloud Gaming. The addition of Xbox Gold makes this plan the best option out there, especially if you’re an online gamer.
Cloud Gaming
Xbox Cloud Gaming allows gamers to play their favorite Game Pass games on PC, console, and mobile with just an internet connection. Gone are the days of installing a massive-sized game to your device. Performance does depend on your internet connection, so Xbox recommends 7 Mbps or higher on mobile, and 20 Mbps or higher on console.
On Android, you can download the Xbox Game Pass app. On iOS, the app is not available yet so you would need to play through your browser. If you find yourself traveling a lot, Cloud Gaming is the perfect companion so you can play on the go.
Xbox Live Gold
Xbox Live Gold allows you to play online with your friends. You can purchase Xbox Live Gold separately at $9.99 a month. Although, I would strongly recommend going with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate since it includes Xbox Live Gold and you get way more for your buck. Xbox Live Gold also gives you free games monthly that you can add to your library and play as long as you have the plan. You also get access to game discounts in the Microsoft Store.
Is This for Me?
The best way to determine if this subscription is right for you is to check out the game library here. You can filter based on console games and PC games depending on what you like to play.
If you find more than two games that you’d love to play, then it’s worth it. If a game is around $40 to $70 (depending on when you buy it) and one month of Game Pass is as low as $9.99 a month, you’re already saving at least $30.
On top of that, massive AAA title games are available on their release date on Xbox Game Pass. For example, Redfall, Starfield, and Scorn will each be in the $60 to $70 range. Xbox Game Pass saves you a ton of money, and it allows you to demo games before buying them.
If you’re on the fence about a game and unsure if you might like it, spending $9.99 a month to test it out is a way better deal than the regular price. I have Xbox Game Pass for PC, and I love that I can play my favorite Xbox titles without having to buy another console. It makes it easier for me to stay in the Xbox world.
Xbox also makes it even easier to stay in a digital world with the Xbox Series S — the most affordable, next generation console available.
Game On
Xbox makes it incredibly easy and affordable to play your favorite Xbox games on PC, console, and mobile — wherever and whenever. With over 100 high quality games to choose from and more added monthly, you’ll be set for the remainder of your gaming life.
