How Does Xbox Game Pass Work

What Is Xbox Game Pass?

Describing Xbox Game Pass as “the Netflix of video games” is already a tired comparison, but frankly, it’s also a perfect summation of how the service works. A monthly subscription nets you digital access to a hefty library of games ranging from indie sensations to triple-A titles, with the only real limitations being your hard drive space, download times, and the catalog itself (which consists of hundreds of games as we speak).

But like any recurring expenditure, it makes absolute sense to want to know everything there is to know about the service before committing your hard-earned dollars, and to stay on top of the latest developments once you have. Here, we’ll tell you everything you need to know — from the pricing structure and subscription options to the latest and greatest games to be added to its expansive selection.

How To Subscribe To Xbox Game Pass

The process is pretty straightforward, but there are several avenues available, including:

Directly From Your Xbox Console

The first (and most common) way is to sign up directly from your Xbox console, either via a promotional tile on your home screen or by locating it in the Subscriptions section of the Microsoft store.

1. Navigate to the Microsoft Store.
2. Select the “Subscriptions” tab (usually located in the topmost group of tiles).
3. Select the Game Pass tab and proceed as instructed.

Pre-Paid Cards & Codes

Pre-paid codes can also be purchased from retail outlets like GameStop, Best Buy, and the like. After obtaining your code, whether digitally or via a prepaid card:

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

From Your PC Or Mobile Browser

To sign up directly from your web browser or mobile device, you 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 signing in and following the prompts provided!

How To Cancel Your Xbox Game Pass Subscription

If you need to bow out of an existing subscription, it’s easy to do so right from your console.

1. Navigate as follows from your Home Screen: Settings > Account > Subscriptions
2. Select your Game Pass subscription.
3. Select “View and manage subscription,” this will launch Microsoft Edge and load you into your Microsoft account page. Alternatively, you can simply log in to your Microsoft account from your device and browser of choice. Steps four and five remain the same regardless.
4. Under subscriptions, select “Manage.” Under Game Pass/Game Pass Ultimate, select “Manage.” Then click on “Cancel Subscription.”
5. You will be given the option to “Turn off recurring billing,” which is exactly what you’re wanting to do.

How Much Is Xbox Game Pass?

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

Xbox Game Pass Core

• Recurring Subscription: $9.99/mo
• 3-Month Code: $24.99

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

Xbox Game Pass Standard

• Recurring Subscription: $14.99/mo

Standard replaces what was previously referred to as Xbox Game Pass Console, minus access to day one new releases. However, it’s important to note that if you were previously on the Console plan, you will stay and be grandfathered in. Standard plans apply to new subscribers going forward.

PC Game Pass

• Recurring Subscription: $11.99/mo

Just as with Game Pass for console, PC Game Pass comes with a rotating selection of games, but there are some PC-exclusives available to subscribers. In addition to that, you get an EA Play membership as well.

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate

• Recurring Subscription: $19.99/mo
• 3-Month Code: $49.99

Game Pass Ultimate is the premier and all-inclusive Game Pass experience. It essentially includes the core Xbox Game Pass, Game Pass for PC, and Xbox Game Pass Core in one tidy package.

Ultimate also includes:

• Access to the games available on EA Play (EA’s own subscription-based service)
• Member perks that manifest as in-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 Xbox Game Pass Perks?

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members also get access to a variety of perks — special offers and bits of exclusive in-game content that rotate out from month to month. They’re time-limited, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the selection to ensure that you don’t miss out!

Perks Available For Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Subscribers

Here are all of the perks currently available, as well as the deadlines for claiming them:

Current as of December 5, 2024

What Are Xbox Game Pass Quests?

Game Pass quests are essentially achievements that generate Microsoft rewards points. The tasks were revamped at the start of 2024 to be more straightforward, eliminating game-specific quests. Now, most daily quests are just generic, such as “Play any Game Pass Game” or “Earn an Achievement in a Game Pass Game.” Microsoft rewards points can be cashed in for gift cards, Microsoft store credit, or if you save enough, additional free months for your Game Pass subscription.

The “Quests” panel can be accessed from your Game Pass menu. These are recurring quests that you can repeat daily, weekly, or monthly.

What Games Are Currently On Xbox Game Pass?

Current as of November 28, 2024

What Are The Best Games On Game Pass?

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

All Games Currently Available On Xbox Game Pass Ultimate

Games Coming Soon To Xbox Game Pass

Games Leaving Xbox Game Pass

Games Announced For Xbox Game Pass

Frequently Asked Questions

What Happens To My Game Pass Games After They’re Removed?

You will lose access to that game. However, your saved data and progress should remain intact. Game Pass subscribers will also frequently have the benefit of purchasing games leaving the service with an exclusive discount. So if your new favorite game is making an exit, you can still buy it permanently while saving some money.

Can You Share Xbox Game Pass?

Depends on the context. You can share it across accounts on your home console.

Can You Gift Xbox Game Pass?

Yes. Microsoft offers a “Buy as Gift” option on its website.

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Xbox Game Pass Ultimate

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is the highest tier of Microsoft’s flagship game subscription service that offers over 100 game titles that you can play with a single purchase, making it one of the most outstanding value propositions of the Xbox ecosystem to date.

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