Xbox Game Pass is a subscription service offered by Microsoft as part of the Xbox network. It was launched on June 1, 2017, and allows users to download and play video games for Xbox video game consoles or Microsoft Windows PCs from a rotating library, with the games remaining accessible as long as the user has an active subscription. The service consists of two products: Xbox Game Pass for Xbox One, Series X, and Series S consoles, and PC Game Pass for PCs running Windows 10 and Windows 11. Xbox Game Pass and PC Game Pass are available as separate subscription products, while a premium tier known as Game Pass Ultimate includes access to both services, an on-demand cloud gaming service available on console, PC, and mobile platforms, and Xbox Live Gold subscription benefits.
Some key features of Xbox Game Pass include:
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Access to a rotating library of games: Xbox Game Pass subscribers can access a rotating library of games for Xbox consoles or PCs, with new games added regularly.
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Discounts on game purchases: Game Pass subscribers also receive discounts on purchases of games from the services library and their respective downloadable content (DLC) .
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Different subscription options: Xbox Game Pass and PC Game Pass are available as separate subscription products, while Game Pass Ultimate includes access to both services, an on-demand cloud gaming service, and Xbox Live Gold subscription benefits.
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Access to exclusive games: Xbox Game Pass subscribers can access Xbox exclusives on the day of their release, as well as new titles from third-party publishers and a catalog of games from the Xbox, Xbox 360, and Xbox One eras.
Xbox Game Pass is similar to Xbox Ones existing EA Play video game subscription service. Game Pass members enjoy access to high-quality games in the PC or console catalog until either the membership is canceled/expires, or a game leaves the Game Pass catalog. Game titles, number, features, and availability vary over time and by region, platform, console, and Game Pass plan.
