Microsoft has made some changes to its Xbox Game Pass subscription service, and it’s causing confusion among gamers. With multiple options available for PC and console players, it can be challenging to figure out which plan is best for you. Let’s break down the different Game Pass tiers to help you make an informed decision.
For PC gamers, there are two main options: PC Game Pass and Game Pass Ultimate. PC Game Pass costs $10 per month and includes a library of several hundred games that you can download and play on your gaming PC. Game Pass Ultimate, priced at $17 per month, offers the same PC game library along with the ability to stream games from Microsoft’s cloud gaming centers.
Console players have three options to choose from: Game Pass Core, Game Pass Console, and the newly introduced Game Pass Standard. Game Pass Core is primarily for online multiplayer gaming on Xbox consoles and costs $10 per month. Game Pass Console, priced at $11 per month, offers a library of downloadable Xbox games but no streaming options. The new Game Pass Standard tier, priced at $15 per month, includes downloadable console games but lacks day-one releases and streaming capabilities.
In September, Microsoft will be increasing the prices of its Game Pass plans. The centerpiece Game Pass Ultimate package will go up from $17 to $20 per month, while the PC Game Pass will increase from $10 to $12 per month. Additionally, the new Game Pass Standard tier will be introduced for console players at $15 per month.
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right plan. Simplifying the offerings to three main plans could make it easier for gamers to decide: Game Pass for PC, Game Pass Basic for Xbox, and Game Pass Ultimate for both PC and console gaming.
In conclusion, Microsoft’s Game Pass subscription service offers a wide range of options for gamers, but the recent changes and price hikes may leave some players scratching their heads. By understanding the different tiers and what they offer, you can make an informed decision on which plan best suits your gaming needs.