But like any recurring expenditure, it makes absolute sense to want to know everything there is to know about the service before committing your hard-earned dollars, and to stay on top of the latest developments once you have. Here, we’ll tell you everything you need to know — from the pricing structure and subscription options to the latest and greatest games to be added to its expansive selection.

Note that this article does not currently cover Game Pass for PC.

RELATED: The Best Games On Xbox Game Pass

How To Subscribe

The process is pretty straightforward, but there are several avenues available, including:

Directly From Your Xbox Console

The first (and most common) way is to sign up directly from your Xbox One console, either via a promotional tile on your home screen or by locating it in the Subscriptions section of the Microsoft store.

Navigate to the Microsoft Store. Select the “Subscriptions” tab (usually located in the topmost group of tiles). Select the Game Pass tab and proceed as instructed.

Pre-Paid Cards & Codes

Pre-paid codes can also be purchased from retail outlets like GameStop, Best Buy, and the like. After obtaining your code, whether digitally or via a prepaid card:

Navigate to the Microsoft Store on your console. Select the “Redeem” option, either from the menu on the left-hand side of your screen or from the “Subscriptions” tab. Enter your code and enjoy!

From Your PC Or Mobile Browser

To sign up directly from your web browser or mobile device, you can visit the official Xbox website and pay $1 for your first month with this link and select the plan you’re interested in. It’s as simple as signing in and following the prompts provided!

How To Cancel Your Xbox Game Pass Subscription

If you need to bow out of an existing subscription, it’s easy to do so right from your console.

Navigate as follows from your Home Screen: Settings > Account > Subscriptions Select your Game Pass subscription. Select “View and manage subscription,” this will launch Microsoft Edge and load you into your Microsoft account page. Alternatively, you can simply log in to your Microsoft account from your device and browser of choice. Steps four and five remain the same regardless. Under subscriptions, select “Manage. " Under Game Pass/Game Pass Ultimate, select “Manage. " Then click on “Cancel Subscription. " You will be given the option to “Turn off recurring billing,” which is exactly what you’re wanting to do.

How Much Is Xbox Game Pass?

Game Pass has three different plans that have multiple subscription models, so there’s something for everyone when it comes to what you’re wanting to get out of the service.

Xbox Game Pass, Console

Recurring Subscription: $9. 99/mo 3-Month Code: $29. 99/mo 6-Month Code: $59. 99/mo

The core Game Pass model, as one may guess from the tin. The basic Game Pass provides access to a lightly rotated selection of Xbox console games, as well as some member-specific discounts.

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate

Recurring Subscription: $14. 99/mo* 3-Month Code: $44. 99

Game Pass Ultimate is the premier and all-inclusive Game Pass experience. It essentially includes the core Xbox Game Pass, Game Pass for PC, and Xbox Live Gold** in one tidy package.

Ultimate also includes:

Access to the games available on EA Play (EA’s own subscription-based service) Member perks that manifest as in-game content and special offers The ability to stream games to your Android phone or device (now in beta) Exclusive discounts and more!

*New subscribers can currently enjoy their first month for just $1.

** Includes all associated benefits, such as Games With Gold. Remaining Xbox Live Gold membership months are converted into Game Pass Ultimate at a reduced conversion ratio.

What Are Xbox Game Pass Perks

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members also get access to a variety of perks — special offers and bits of exclusive in-game content that rotate out from month to month. They’re time-limited, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the selection to ensure that you don’t miss out!

Perks Available For Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Subscribers

Here are all of the perks currently available, as well as the deadlines for claiming them:

Current as of February 1, 2023

What Are Game Pass Quests?

Game Pass quests are essentially achievements that generate Microsoft rewards points. The tasks range from earning a specific achievement within a game to simply booting up a Game Pass game on a daily basis. Microsoft rewards points can be cashed in for gift cards, Microsoft store credit, or if you save enough, additional free months for your Game Pass subscription.

The “Quests” panel can be accessed from your Game Pass menu. Some of these are generic, recurring quests that you can repeat daily, weekly, or monthly. However, there are some game-specific quests that are unique and rotate on a weekly and monthly basis.

Game Pass Weekly Quests (Expiring 2/6/23)

Game Pass Monthly Quests (Expiring 2/6/23)

There are currently no game-specific quests for the month of January. Check back in later for more updates!

What Games Are On Game Pass?

Current as of January 29, 2023

What Are The Best Games On Game Pass?

You could always check out our master list for the best games currently on Game Pass, but if you’re looking for a particular style or genre, check these curated lists to get an idea of what you should play next.

Best Local Co-Op & Split-Screen Games On Xbox Game Pass Best Strategy Games On Xbox Game Pass Best Indie Games On Xbox Game Pass Best Souls Like Games On Xbox Game Pass Best Open-World Games On Xbox Game Pass Best RPGs On Xbox Game Pass Best Multiplayer Games On Xbox Game Pass Best Xbox Game Pass Games For Kids Best Games Like GTA V On Xbox Game Pass Best Hidden Gems On Xbox Game Pass Best FPS Games On Xbox Game Pass Best Xbox Game Pass Games Like Diablo Best Horror Games On Xbox Game Pass Best PC Games On Game Pass Best EA Games On Xbox Game Pass Best Zombie Games On Xbox Game Pass

Currently Available

Coming Soon

Leaving Soon

Announced

What Happens To My Game Pass Games After They’re Removed?

You will lose access to that game. However, your saved data and progress should remain intact. Game Pass subscribers will also frequently have the benefit of purchasing games leaving the service with an exclusive discount. So if your new favorite game is making an exit, you can still buy it permanently while saving some money.

Can You Share Xbox Game Pass?

Depends on the context. You can share it across accounts on your home console.

Can You Gift Xbox Game Pass?

Yes. Microsoft offers a “Buy as Gift” option on its website.

What Happens To My Xbox Live Gold Subscription When I Subscribe To Xbox Game Pass Ultimate?

When you activate a Game Pass Ultimate subscription while your Xbox Live Gold subscription is live, your remaining Xbox Live Gold subscription is converted into Game Pass Ultimate via a conversion ratio. This is particularly handy when taking advantage of the initial $1 entry fee, as your remaining Xbox Live Gold months are converted at no additional charge. However, keep in mind this only applies to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and not Xbox Game Pass.

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