What exactly is Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, and how does it differ from the standard Xbox Game Pass subscription? I’m also interested in understanding which platforms it’s compatible with (Xbox consoles, PC, cloud gaming), what types of games are typically included in the library (AAA titles, indie games, etc.), and how often the game selection changes. Finally, what are the additional benefits, such as Xbox Live Gold inclusion and any exclusive deals or discounts for members, and what’s the current pricing structure, including any potential trial periods or family plan options?
Answer
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is a subscription service offered by Microsoft that combines Xbox Live Gold with the standard Xbox Game Pass library, and adds additional perks. It’s the most comprehensive Game Pass offering.
Core Components:
- Xbox Live Gold: This is required for playing most multiplayer games online on Xbox consoles. It also includes:
- Deals with Gold: Weekly discounts on select games.
- Games with Gold: Two free downloadable games per month that subscribers get to keep as long as they have an active Gold subscription (Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S games). Xbox 360 games claimed via Games with Gold are yours to keep forever, even without an active subscription.
- Xbox Game Pass for Console: Grants access to a library of hundreds of downloadable games that can be played on Xbox consoles (Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S). The library is constantly changing, with new games added regularly and some games leaving periodically. These games are available to play as long as they are in the Game Pass library and the subscription is active.
- Xbox Game Pass for PC: Grants access to a separate library of downloadable games that can be played on Windows PCs. Like the console library, this collection is also constantly updated with new games and removals. Some games are available on both the console and PC libraries, but the selections are not identical.
- Xbox Cloud Gaming (xCloud): Allows subscribers to stream a selection of Game Pass games to compatible devices, including mobile phones, tablets, PCs, and some smart TVs, without needing to download them. This expands the playing experience beyond the Xbox console or PC. This requires a stable internet connection.
- EA Play: Included with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. This adds a selection of EA games to the Game Pass library on both console and PC, offers exclusive in-game rewards and content, and provides early trials of select upcoming EA titles.
- Ultimate Perks: Subscribers periodically receive extra perks, such as in-game content (cosmetics, items), DLC, subscriptions to other services (e.g., Discord Nitro), and other bonuses. These perks are often time-limited.