Core Service and Platform Access
Xbox Game Pass is a video game subscription service by Microsoft Gaming, first launched on June 1, 2017. Consequently, the service allows users to download and play a revolving library of games. The games remain accessible as long as the subscription is active.
Furthermore, the service works on a broad range of platforms, including Xbox Series X/S, PC Game Pass, Android, iOS, and smart TVs, with features like Xbox Game Pass download. Significantly, 37 million members were reported as of July 2025.
Tier Structure and Price Evolution
The service currently offers three main tiers: Essential, Premium, and Xbox Ultimate Game Pass 12 month. However, the previous low-cost option, Xbox Live Gold, was discontinued and merged into the new Essential tier.
The highest tier, Game Pass Ultimate, which costs $30 per month (as of October 2025), includes access to both console and PC Game Pass libraries, plus Xbox Cloud Gaming.
Also, new subscribers often sought Xbox Game Pass deals like the introductory Xbox Game Pass Ultimate 1 month rate. The Xbox Game Pass Ultimate 3 months option and other periods can be purchased through retailers, sometimes at a lower price than the new monthly rate.
Included Content and Partner Benefits
All new Xbox Game Studios titles have been available on Game Pass from their release day since January 2018. The Ultimate tier now includes partner services like EA Play and Ubisoft+ Classics.
Interestingly, even the popular Riot Games titles offer bonus rewards to subscribers. For those looking to bundle hardware and service, Xbox All Access provides a console and Game Pass Ultimate in a monthly payment plan.
Development Philosophy and Financial View
The concept of Game Pass was a strategic move by Phil Spencer to reposition the Xbox brand around a subscription model, like Netflix. This subscription model is used to compensate developers in various ways, including upfront lump sums.
But it was acknowledged that the service does, in fact, “cannibalize” game sales for a limited time. Nevertheless, Microsoft believes the model is sustainable, aiming to attract more players through value and word-of-mouth.
Indie Developer’s Mixed Reception
Initially, many indie game developers praised Game Pass, stating that the financial support allowed them to fully fund experimental titles like Pentiment. For instance, deals provided financial security and allowed teams to expand.
Conversely, by the mid-2020s, criticisms grew. Some developers argued that the deals were becoming less favorable and that the overall model was seen as unsustainable and possibly a form of predatory pricing subsidized by Microsoft’s resources.
Xbox Live Ultimate
The transition from Xbox Live Gold resulted in the creation of the Essential tier, which effectively carries the online multiplayer component previously offered by Xbox Live Ultimate (Gold).
Therefore, online console multiplayer is included in all tiers now, with the higher tiers adding extensive game libraries and cloud benefits.
Structure
The subscription catalog is regularly updated, with games being added and withdrawn. Games can be played offline for up to 30 days.
Subscribers
The subscriber base grew rapidly, reaching around 35 to 37 million by August 2025.
Availability
Xbox Game Pass is widely available in dozens of countries, covering North America, Europe, Asia, and more.
Reception from Indie Video Game Developers
The perception of the service among independent studios has shifted from initial praise for financial security to later concerns about deal sustainability and its long-term impact on the industry.
Conclusion
Ultimately, Xbox Game Pass is a continually evolving subscription service that has significantly changed the gaming landscape, although its long-term pricing and financial impact on game developers remain debated.
