Yesterday, Microsoft decided to be a little sneaky and announce a brand new plan for Xbox Game Pass: Game Pass Standard.
The idea is that Game Pass Standard will, in theory, combine features that players love about Game Pass for console and Game Pass Core while providing an additional option when deciding which plan to subscribe to.
That’s right, Microsoft took a good long look at gamers and decided that what we want, what we really, really want, is another decision to make. Thanks.
So, if, like me, you hate the idea of yet another option to choose from, let me help make it easier by breaking it down.
Currently, the available Game Pass options are:
PC Game Pass – R119 per month
This subscription model will give PC gamers access to hundreds of games and new titles on day one. That includes games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Indiana Jones, and Great Circle.
This option will also give subscribers access to an EA Play membership, Riot Games benefits in Valorant, League of Legends, Teamfight Tactics, and more.
Game Pass Core – R99 per month
This subscription model is for those who want to play games from their Xbox console, with friends. Game Pass Core is your main avenue for online console multiplayer.
Subscribers can pay to play with others online, get member deals of up to 50% off select titles, and enjoy a catalogue of over 25 games in the Game Pass library.
Game Pass Standard – R149 per month
This is the latest option to be added to the Game Pass roster. In addition to giving subscribers all the same benefits received in Game Pass Core, Game Pass Standard also includes the benefits of a regular Game Pass subscription.
This means subscribers can access hundreds of games in the Game Pass library for console while also being able to play online with their friends.
Game Pass Ultimate – R199 per month
Game Pass Ultimate is, as the name suggests, the Ultimate way to experience all that Game Pass has to offer.
This option includes all the benefits in the other Game Pass plans. Subscribers will be able to enjoy hundreds of games, play games from day one, play multiplayer on consoles, and experience premium member benefits with deals and discounts on games and add-ons, free Perks, an EA Plus Subscription and more.
Subscribers can also stream games using cloud gaming before downloading them onto their consoles.
Overall, it feels like Game Pass Ultimate delivers the biggest bang for your buck if you plan on subscribing. Still, there is something to say about Microsoft’s efforts to give gamers plenty of options.
Do you subscribe to Game Pass? Let me know in the comments why or why not.