How much is Xbox Live vs Game Pass?
Xbox Live is the online gaming service provided by Microsoft for the Xbox console, while Xbox Game Pass is a subscription-based service that offers access to a wide range of games. Both services have unique features and pricing models, which are essential to understand before making a choice. In this article, we will explore the different pricing options for Xbox Live and Game Pass, helping you make an informed decision about which one is best for you.
Game Pass Core: The New Xbox Online Subscription
As of September 2020, Microsoft has replaced Xbox Live Gold with a new subscription service called Xbox Game Pass Core. This new service will include the usual Xbox online console multiplayer support, deals and discounts, and a small catalog of more than 25 games. The cost of Game Pass Core will remain the same as Xbox Live Gold, at $10 a month or $60 a year.
Xbox Live Pricing
Xbox Live has several pricing options, including:
• Xbox Live Gold: The most basic subscription plan that allows online multiplayer gaming. It costs $9.99 a month or $59.99 a year.
• Xbox Live Gold with Online: This plan includes online multiplayer gaming and also allows for online browsing and shopping. It costs $13.99 a month or $79.99 a year.
• Xbox Live Gold with Online and Free Games: This plan includes online multiplayer gaming, online browsing and shopping, and access to a selection of free games. It costs $20.99 a month or $129.99 a year.
• Xbox Live Platinum: The most premium subscription plan, which includes all the features of the basic plans, plus additional benefits like a larger selection of free games, ad-free browsing, and a boost in online multiplayer performance. It costs $24.99 a month or $149.99 a year.
Game Pass Ultimate: The Ultimate Gaming Subscription
For gamers who want access to a larger library of games, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is the way to go. This subscription plan includes all the benefits of Game Pass Core, as well as access to a library of more than 100 games, including newer titles and classic games. The cost of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is $15 a month or $120 a year.
Comparison of Xbox Live and Game Pass Pricing
Here’s a comparison of the pricing options for Xbox Live and Game Pass:
| Plan | Price per Month | Price per Year |
|---|---|---|
| Xbox Live Gold | $9.99 | $59.99 |
| Xbox Live Gold with Online | $13.99 | $79.99 |
| Xbox Live Gold with Online and Free Games | $20.99 | $129.99 |
| Xbox Live Platinum | $24.99 | $149.99 |
| Game Pass Core | $10 | $60 |
| Xbox Game Pass Ultimate | $15 | $120 |
Free Trials and Promotions
Both Xbox Live and Game Pass offer free trials and promotions. Xbox Live offers a 14-day free trial for new subscribers, while Game Pass offers a free one-month trial for new subscribers.
Free Games with Xbox Live and Game Pass
Here’s a list of free games that are included with each subscription plan:
| Plan | Number of Free Games |
|---|---|
| Xbox Live Gold | 2 games per month |
| Xbox Live Gold with Online and Free Games | 4 games per month |
| Xbox Live Platinum | 5 games per month |
| Game Pass Core | 25 games |
| Xbox Game Pass Ultimate | 100+ games |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Xbox Live and Game Pass are two different services offered by Microsoft for the Xbox console. While Xbox Live is the online gaming service that provides multiplayer gaming and other features, Game Pass is a subscription-based service that offers access to a library of games. The pricing options for Xbox Live and Game Pass vary depending on the plan chosen, with Game Pass Core being the most affordable option. However, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate provides access to a larger library of games, making it the best option for gamers who want to play a wide range of games. Ultimately, the choice between Xbox Live and Game Pass depends on your gaming needs and preferences.