How Xbox Game Pass works

What is Xbox Game Pass?

Describe Xbox Game Pass calling it “the Netflix of video games” is already a tired comparison, but frankly it's also a perfect summary of how the service works. A monthly subscription grants you digital access to a rich library of games that range from indie sensations to triple-A titles, with the only real limitations being hard drive space, download times, and the catalog itself (which consists of hundreds of games as we know). speak).

But like any recurring expense, it makes perfect sense to want to know everything there is to know about the service before committing your hard-earned money, and to stay up to date on the latest developments once you've done so. Here we'll tell you everything you need to know: from pricing structure and subscription options to the latest and greatest games to add to its wide selection.

How to subscribe to Xbox Game Pass

The process is quite simple, but there are several avenues available, including:

Directly from your Xbox console

The first (and most common) way is that sign up directly from your Xbox consolevia a promotional tile on the home screen or by locating it in the Subscription section of the Microsoft Store.

1. Go to the Microsoft Store.
2. Select the “Subscriptions” (usually located in the top group of boxes).
3. Select the Game passage card and proceed as indicated.

Prepaid cards and codes

Prepaid codes can also be purchased at retail outlets such as GameStop, Best Buy and the like. After obtaining your code, either digitally or via a prepaid card:

1. Sign in to the Microsoft Store on your console.
2. Select the “Redeem“, from the menu on the left side of the screen or from the “Subscriptions” tab.
3. Enter your code and enjoy!

From your PC or mobile browser

TO register directly from your web browser or mobile deviceyou can visit the official Xbox website and pay $1 for your first month with this link and select the plan you're interested in. It's as simple as logging in and following the instructions provided!

How to cancel your Xbox Game Pass subscription

If you need to cancel an existing subscription, it's easy to do so directly from your console.

1. Navigate as follows from the home screen: Settings > Accounts > Subscriptions
2. Select your Game Pass subscription.
3. Select “View and manage your subscription,” this will launch Microsoft Edge and load you into your Microsoft account page. Alternatively, you can simply sign in to your Microsoft account from your favorite device and browser. Steps four and five remain the same regardless.
4. Under subscriptions, select “Riding stables.” In Game Pass/Game Pass Ultimate, select “Riding stables.“Then click”Cancel subscription.”
5. You will be given the option to “Turn off recurring billing,” which is exactly what you want to do.

How much does Xbox Game Pass cost?

Game Pass has four different plans that have multiple subscription models, so there's something for everyone when it comes to what you want to get out of the service.

Xbox Game Pass Core

• Recurring subscription: $9.99/month
• 3 month code: $24.99

Replacing Xbox games with Gold, Core offers a small library of Xbox games and online console multiplayer capabilities.

Standard Xbox Game Pass

• Recurring subscription: $14.99/month

Standard replaces what was previously called Xbox Game Pass console, minus access to new day one releases. However, it is important to note that if you were previously subscribed to the Console plan, you will remain and be retained. Standard plans apply to new subscribers going forward.

PC Game Pass

• Recurring subscription: $11.99/month

Just like with Game Pass for consoles, PC Game Pass comes with a rotating selection of games, but there are some PC exclusives available to subscribers. On top of that, you also get an EA Play subscription.

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate

• Recurring subscription: $19.99/month
• 3 month code: $49.99

Game Pass Ultimate is the most complete and complete Game Pass experience. It essentially includes Xbox Game Pass, Game Pass for PC, and Xbox Game Pass Core in one neat package.

Ultimate also includes:

• Access to games available on EA Play (EA Subscription Service)
• Member benefits that manifest as game content and special offers
• The ability to Stream games to your Android phone or device (now in beta)
• Exclusive discounts and more!

What are the benefits of Xbox Game Pass?

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members also have access to a variety of benefits: special offers and exclusive game content that changes from month to month. They are limited in time, so it's a good idea to keep an eye on the selection to make sure you don't miss out!

Benefits available to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers

Here are all the benefits currently available, as well as the deadlines for requesting them:

Current as of December 5, 2024

What are Xbox Game Pass missions?

Game Pass missions are essentially achievements that generate Microsoft reward points. Tasks were revamped in early 2024 to be simpler, eliminating game-specific missions. Now, most of the daily quests are just generic, like “Play any Game Pass game” or “Get an achievement in a Game Pass game.” Microsoft rewards points can be redeemed for gift cards, Microsoft Store credit, or, if you save enough, additional free months to your Game Pass subscription.

The “Missions” panel can be accessed from the Game Pass menu. These are recurring missions that you can repeat daily, weekly or monthly.

What games are currently available on Xbox Game Pass?

Current as of November 28, 2024

What are the best games on Game Pass?

You can always check out our master list of the best games currently on Game Pass, but if you're looking for a particular style or genre, check out these curated lists to get an idea of ​​what you should play next.

All games currently available on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate

All games marked special and bold in the list below are those available to those who are subscribed to Xbox Game Pass Core.

Games coming to Xbox Game Pass

Games coming out of Xbox Game Pass

Games announced for Xbox Game Pass

Frequently asked questions

What happens to my Game Pass games after they are removed?

You will lose access to that game. However, your saved data and progress should remain intact. Game Pass subscribers will also often have the benefit of purchasing games leaving the service at an exclusive discount. So, if your new favorite game is about to come out, you can still purchase it permanently and save money.

Can you share Xbox Game Pass?

It depends on the context. You can share it between accounts on your home console.

Can you give Xbox Game Pass as a gift?

YES. Microsoft offers a “Buy as a gift” option on its website.