Xbox Game Pass is a subscription service aimed at gamers. It was launched in 2017 and has evolved over the years. The most recent change happened last year 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 Standard. It further went on to increase subscription prices around the globe.
These changes are the reason existing and new Xbox users may feel confused about the subscription tiers, benefits, and prices. This article explains everything in detail to help you decide which one is a better pick.
Xbox Game Pass Subscription Tiers and Benefits
Xbox Game Pass Core: Price and Benefits
Xbox Game Pass Core is the entry-level subscription tier with basic benefits. It was introduced last year 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 keep adding new titles to the curated catalogue over time.
Price:
- Rs 349 per month
Xbox Game Pass Standard: Price and Benefit
Xbox Game Pass Standard is the most affordable subscription tier if you are interested in the Xbox Game Pass library of games for the console. There are hundreds of quality video games that you can download and play. Some of these are Forza Horizon 5, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, Minecraft, EA Sports FC 24, Cricket 24, Far Cry 6, and F1 23.
It keeps refreshing the lineup regularly. Online console multiplayer and special deals are part of this tier too. However, you do not get access to day-one releases. This is the newest Xbox subscription tier and replaces the Xbox Game Pass for Console.
Price:
- Rs 619 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 video games available on PC. It includes day-one releases of new games from Xbox Game Studios, Bethesda, Activision Blizzard, and more. Some of these include Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle.
There is an additional benefit in terms of EA Play membership. This gives you access to multiple EA games without any extra charge.
Price:
- Rs 449 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 hundreds of quality video games on both PC and console. There is EA Play membership, new day-one releases, online console multiplayer, and special deals/discounts. There are also perks that include in-game content, consumables, partner offers, and more.
Price:
- Rs 829 per month
You can check out the complete list of games available under different subscription tiers by visiting the official catalogue page.
Note: Xbox Cloud Gaming is not available in India yet.
Here is a quick overview of Xbox Game Pass tiers’ pricing and benefits:
Tiers | Benefits | Pricing |
Xbox Game Pass Core | Curated library of console games, online multiplayer, and special deals | Rs 349 |
Xbox Game Pass Standard | Xbox Game Pass library of console games, online multiplayer, and special deals | Rs 619 |
Xbox Game Pass PC | Xbox Game Pass library of PC games, EA Play, day one release, and special deals | Rs 449 |
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate | Xbox Game Pass library of PC and console games, EA Play, day one release, online multiplayer, special deals, and Perks | Rs 829 |
Xbox Game Pass Subscription Tiers: Which One to Pick?
The first thing you need to figure out is what device(s) you would be gaming on. If you are only a PC gamer, your only option is to go with Xbox Game Pass PC. For gamers who want to play on both Xbox and PC, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is the right pick.
If you are interested in playing solely on Xbox, 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. For those looking to access the Xbox Game Pass library with hundreds of console games, the Standard tier is the way to go.