The Amazing Value of Xbox Game Pass

Finding value from video games can be a challenge. This is especially true if you are seeking enjoyment and value at the same time. With game prices typically ranging from $20 to $60 for Standard editions, sure, you can find some occasional value. Especially when there is a rare Special or Deluxe edition in that price range. These are usually more in the $80 to $120 range on a regular basis. That’s where value tends to be more subjective and falls into the hands of what each individual wants.

Current gaming consoles are releasing at a somewhat more affordable rate now then upon their initial release. Of course, this helps some new gamers with a smaller gaming budget to be able to pick up a few games with their new console. Later this year however, new hardware is scheduled for release and as of this writing, has no officially set price point. Current speculation anticipates a $500 price point and I personally agree with that as a top end price. So, unless you’re already well established on that platform with a gaming library ready to go, where do you find value in games?

Enter Xbox Game Pass.

For those unaware, and I’m sure there are still a few gamers who are, Game Pass is a subscription-based video game service that is most similar to how Netflix operates. Comparisons to Gamefly really aren’t fair as Gamefly is a rental service that ships physical copies of games that you return upon being finished with them. Xbox Game Pass is a digital service, like Netflix, that gives the user access to a library of games that can be downloaded, played and then uninstalled at your convenience.

Now you might be asking yourself, “How is a subscription-based video game service a value to me?” For a low monthly rate ($9.99), or if you prefer annual ($99.99) you then have access to hundreds of games to fit your playing preference. Indie games, puzzlers, platformers, strategy, these are just a few of the game categories found on Game Pass. There is literally something for nearly everyone. Add to that the pledge from Microsoft that first party games will be available on Game Pass the day they are released and that should be enough to convince you of the value of Game Pass. But wait, there’s more!

Game Pass Ultimate is another option that is available. For a slightly higher rate ($14.99/month, with the first month for $1 to new subscribers) you can combine Xbox Live Gold and Game Pass subscriptions into one. Those who had already done this prior to the release of Gears 5, were able to download the Ultimate Edition of the game on the day of release! Also, Game Pass Ultimate comes with the added benefit of combining PC with it. So now, for that one price, you can get Gold and Game Pass on your console and PC. Game Pass on PC includes PC only games as well as Xbox play anywhere titles. For those achievement hunters out there, this could be a low-cost way to boost that GamerScore. Yes, some of the games you’ve likely already completed, but with new titles being added regularly and PC gaming access, the opportunity to grow and in some cases, stack titles together, combined with those useful guides on the internet can have you popping achievements like crazy.

Oh, by the way, there’s an app for that too. Yes, Xbox Game Pass has an app that allows you to browse and remotely install games for both console and PC while on the go! That’s gaming convenience and value all wrapped up in a nice little package. With the addition of Xcloud coming, soon you’ll be able to take your game library, including Game Pass games you’ve installed, on the go with you and game on your compatible device.

Finally, let’s talk about rewards. That’s right, those of you who diligently complete your daily Microsoft Rewards points tasks can find some value here. The new daily, weekly and monthly rewards give points for playing Game Pass games, remote downloads, achievements in Game Pass games and even for stringing together consecutive days or weeks of earning these rewards. The best value though, especially for the rewards points seekers is this: You can use your rewards points to renew your Game Pass membership and never pay again, as long as you continue to earn enough to redeem.

If I still haven’t convinced you of the value of Xbox Game Pass by now, well, maybe it’s just not something you’re interested in. I recommend though, that you talk to a friend who has it, or better yet, sign up for a free trial and give it a go yourself. If you still don’t like it, you don’t have to keep it, but maybe you’ll enjoy it and all the fantastic games that come with it.

See you out there and Happy Gaming everyone!