Xbox Game Pass is a premium subscription service for Xbox and PC gamers. It provides members with unlimited access to over 100 video games, including triple-A blockbusters, forgotten classics and unique indies.
The service launched in 2017 and has been described by many as the “Netflix for games.” Xbox Game Pass offers its members unlimited access to games included in the subscription, eliminating the need for costly one-off purchases. Premium services such as Xbox Live and EA Play are also included at no extra cost, and the catalogue of games is updated monthly.
If you’re an Xbox or PC gamer, there’s no doubt that Xbox Game Pass has a lot to give. Read on for our brief guide on what exactly the Games Pass entails, pricing details and more.
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What is Xbox Game Pass?
Xbox Game Pass is a video game subscription service created by Microsoft. It can be used on Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One consoles, PCs, and Android mobile devices. Device support may vary depending on which subscription plan is selected.
Offering unlimited access to over 100 games, users can filter their gaming choices by genre, and download their chosen games to their device. In addition to first-party games from Xbox Game Studios, the Game Pass offers titles by third-party publishers such as Bandai Namco, Capcom and 2K Games. Due to Microsoft’s recent acquisition of ZeniMax Media, Bethesda Softworks catalogue is also available.
The service also provides day-one access to new launches. This means that when Halo Infinite launches, Game Pass subscribers will be able to download and play the title at no extra cost.
Through backward compatibility of Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One, Game Pass members will also have access to video game classics, some of which were originally released alongside Xbox or Xbox 360.
How much is an Xbox Game Pass?
The Xbox Game Pass is split into three separate plans which vary in price and offerings, according to your preferences. Read our outline of the plans below:
Xbox Game Pass for console: At £7.99 per month, members can enjoy access to over 100 high-quality console games with new ones being added all the time. This option also provides members access to Xbox Game Studios titles on the day they are premiered, as well as exclusive member discounts and deals.
Xbox Game Pass for PC: At £7.99 per month, the PC Games Pass delivers over 100 PC games, access to Xbox Game Studios on the day of release and exclusive member discounts and deals. This plan also includes a library of top EA PC games, rewards, and member-only content.
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate: The top-tier Games Pass plan costs £10.99, offering members a series of additional perks. Other than providing access to hundreds of console, PC and Android games, the Ultimate Game Pass also allows members to enjoy some of EA’s most beloved titles and in-game rewards, as well as an Xbox Live Gold membership. Cloud gaming is also available through this plan, making it possible to game on your tablet or Android mobile device.
At the time of writing, Xbox Game Pass is offering one month subscription for only £1. Click here to view the offer.
What games are available on the Xbox Game Pass?
Hundreds of games are available through the Game Pass, with popular choices including Minecraft, Halo 2 and NBA 2K21. New titles are continuously being released, the most recent of which include Madden NFL 2, Octopath Traveller and Yakuza 6.
Original Xbox and Xbox 360 games are also available in the Games Pass library, such as Alan Wake, Fallout 4, Fusion Frenzy and Battlefield: Bad Company.
For the full list of the game library, click here.
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How long do I have access to games within the Xbox Games Pass library?
Members will be able to enjoy a wide range of high-quality console or PC games until their membership ends or until a game is withdrawn from the Xbox Game Pass library.
Games that will soon be withdrawn from the Game Pass library will fall under a ‘leaving soon’ category on the Xbox dashboard, giving members a chance to play them before they’re gone.
Is an Xbox Game Pass worth it?
If you’re an avid Xbox or PC gamer, the Xbox Game Pass is certainly worth a try.
By purchasing the Game Pass, you’ll have immediate access to a vast array of gaming content, without the hassle of additional purchases. You’ll also have the chance to leave your comfort zone, trying games and genres you wouldn’t typically purchase, while also being able to enjoy your favourite classics via backward compatibility.
The interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, with a clear layout, genre filters and trailers for each game.
Make sure to visit the official Xbox website to subscribe to the service.
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