What is the difference between Game Pass Core and other Xbox game subscription services?
Xbox has been a household name for many gamers for years, offering a wide range of gaming experiences and subscription services to cater to different types of players. One of the most popular subscription services is Game Pass, which comes in three variants: Core, Ultimate, and Free Play Day. But what’s the difference between these services? In this article, we’ll explore the differences between Game Pass Core and other Xbox game subscription services, helping you decide which one is best for you.
Game Pass Core: The Entry-Level Option
Game Pass Core is the entry-level option in Xbox’s game subscription service family. For a monthly fee of $10, you get access to a rotating library of around 20-25 games, which includes popular titles like Doom Eternal, Forza Horizon 5, and Fallout 76. Note that these games are selected by Xbox, and not all games are available at all times. Game Pass Core also includes online multiplayer access, which allows you to play with friends and other gamers online.
Game Pass Ultimate: The Premium Option
Game Pass Ultimate is the premium option in Xbox’s game subscription service family. For a monthly fee of $15, you get access to the entire Game Pass library, including new games added to the service each month. You also get access to online multiplayer, EA Play membership, and Riot Games benefits, such as Champions skins and emotes. Additionally, you can play games on both Xbox console and PC.
Game Pass Free Play Day: The Trial Version
Game Pass Free Play Day is a trial version of Game Pass Core that allows you to play select games for a limited time (usually a weekend). You don’t need to subscribe to a monthly service, and you can play games without any commitment. However, keep in mind that the selection of games may be limited, and not all games are available during the free play period.
What’s Included in Game Pass Core?
Here are some of the key benefits of Game Pass Core:
- Access to a rotating library of around 20-25 games
- Online multiplayer access
- Deals and discounts on select games (up to 50% off)
- Free Play Days for select fully featured games
Key Differences Between Game Pass Core and Ultimate
Here are some of the key differences between Game Pass Core and Ultimate:
- Library size: Game Pass Ultimate has access to the entire Game Pass library, while Game Pass Core has a smaller selection of around 20-25 games.
- New game additions: Game Pass Ultimate gets new games added to the service each month, while Game Pass Core does not.
- EA Play membership: Game Pass Ultimate includes EA Play membership, which provides access to a library of EA games and exclusive content. Game Pass Core does not.
- Riot Games benefits: Game Pass Ultimate includes Riot Games benefits, such as Champions skins and emotes. Game Pass Core does not.
Is Call of Duty on Game Pass?
One of the most frequently asked questions is whether Call of Duty games are available on Game Pass. The answer is no, at least until 2024. Microsoft has partnered with Activision Blizzard to make Call of Duty games exclusive to their platforms, and they won’t be available on Game Pass or Xbox Game Pass Ultimate until a later date.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, Game Pass Core is an entry-level option that offers a rotating library of games, online multiplayer access, and deals and discounts. While it’s a great option for casual gamers or those looking to try out new games, it’s limited compared to Game Pass Ultimate. If you’re looking for a more premium experience with access to a larger library of games and additional benefits, Game Pass Ultimate is the way to go.
Here’s a summary of the key points:
| Service | Price | Games | Online Multiplayer | New Game Additions | EA Play Membership | Riot Games Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Game Pass Core | $10 | 20-25 | ||||
| Game Pass Ultimate | $15 | All |
We hope this article has helped you understand the differences between Game Pass Core and other Xbox game subscription services. If you have any further questions or comments, please let us know in the comments below!