Xbox Game Pass is a subscription service aimed at Xbox and PC gamers. It was launched in 2017 and has evolved over the years. The most recent change happened a couple of years ago when Microsoft decided to phase out Xbox Live Gold and Xbox Game Pass for Console. These were replaced by the new tiers: Xbox Game Pass Core and Xbox Game Pass Standard.
These changes are the reason existing as well as new Xbox users may feel confused about Xbox Game Pass subscription tiers, benefits, and prices. This article explains subscription tiers in detail to help you decide which one is a better pick.
Also Read: PlayStation Plus Tiers Explained
Xbox Game Pass Tiers Price and Benefits
Xbox Game Pass Core Price and Benefits
Xbox Game Pass Core is the entry-level tier with basic benefits. It was introduced in 2023 and replaces what was previously known as Xbox Live Gold. It offers a curated catalogue of over 30 console video games that you can play. It further offers online console multiplayer and special deals/discounts for subscribers. Microsoft says it will continue to add new titles to the curated catalogue over time.
Price:
- $9.99 per month
Xbox Game Pass Standard Price and Benefits
Xbox Game Pass Standard is the most affordable subscription tier if you are interested in the Xbox Game Pass library of console games. There are hundreds of quality video games that you can download and play. The lineup is refreshed regularly, so that you do not get bored with the same set of games. Online console multiplayer and special deals are also part of this tier. However, you do not get access to day one releases.
Price:
- $14.99 per month
Xbox Game Pass PC Price and Benefits
As the name suggests, Xbox Game Pass PC is aimed at gamers who are interested only in PC games. It offers access to hundreds of quality PC video games. It includes day one releases for new games as and when available, like the recently released Hollow Knight: Silksong. There is an additional benefit in terms of EA Play membership. This gives you access to multiple EA games without any extra charge.
Price:
- $11.99 per month
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Price and Benefits
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is the most expensive subscription tier. It offers all the benefits that Xbox has to offer. It has a library of hundreds of quality video games on PC, console, and cloud gaming. There is EA Play membership, new day-one releases, online console multiplayer, and special deals/discounts.
Price:
- $19.99 per month
Here is a quick overview of Xbox Game Pass tiers’ pricing and benefits:
| Benefits | Price (per month) | |
| Xbox Game Pass Core | Curated library of console games, online multiplayer, and special deals | $9.99 |
| Xbox Game Pass Standard | Xbox Game Pass library of console games, online multiplayer, and special deals | $14.99 |
| Xbox Game Pass PC | Xbox Game Pass library of PC games, EA Play, day one releases, online multiplayer, and special deals | $11.99 |
| Xbox Game Pass Ultimate | Xbox Game Pass library of PC and console games, cloud gaming, EA Play, day one releases, online multiplayer, and special deals | $19.99 |
Xbox Game Pass Tiers: Which One to Pick?
If you are a PC gamer with no console, Xbox Game Pass PC is the obvious choice. For gamers who want to play on both Xbox and PC, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is the way to go.
If you are interested in playing solely on Xbox, then you can choose between Xbox Game Pass Core and Xbox Game Pass Standard. The Core tier makes sense if you only want online multiplayer support and special deals. Those looking to access the Xbox Game Pass library with hundreds of console games, the Standard tier is the right pick.
