Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass is one of the best subscription game services on the planet, thanks to a large library of games and a great same-day release policy for many of their triple AAA games. One thing you may not realize is that the service isn’t just for Xbox owners, Microsoft offers an Xbox GamePass subscription for PC quite well. In this guide, we’ll talk about what an Xbox Game Pass for PC membership includes, how much it costs, and how it can take your gaming to the next level.
What is Xbox Game Pass and how does the PC Game Pass work?
Xbox Game Pass is a subscription service for Xbox console and PC players with over 100 games to choose from that you can download directly to your Xbox or PC. The service works similarly on both PC and console, only the library is different. Obviously, some games remain console exclusives, and vice versa. For example, there are quite a few standalone PC games that you won’t find in the console version of Game Pass.
Xbox Game Pass works the same way on PC and console, with slightly different games available for download.
To use Xbox Game Pass, you’ll need to download the Xbox app from the Windows Store. Once you’ve installed the app, you can sign up for an Xbox Game Pass for PC subscription and browse the library of available titles. Just keep in mind that for each game you will need to make sure you meet the minimum system requirements before downloading. Once you install the game, you will be able to play it offline as long as you have an active Game Pass subscription – depending on the specific game. Some games may require an internet connection to play, while others can be played completely offline.
In addition to the games in the library, Xbox Game Pass for PC subscribers also get exclusive discounts on select games and DLC (downloadable content) packs. This can be a great way to save money on your favorite games and add new content to your collection.
How much does PC Game Pass cost?
The cost of Xbox Game Pass for PC varies depending on where you live. In the United States, the current pricing options for Xbox Game Pass for PC are as follows:
- Monthly subscription: $9.99 per month
- Quarterly Subscription: $29.99 every 3 months (equivalent to $9.99 per month)
- Annual subscription: $99.99 annually (equivalent to $8.33 per month)
Also keep in mind that this only includes access to Xbox Game Pass on PC. If you also own a console or are looking for game streaming benefits, you’ll want to consider Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. The Ultimate Pass costs $14.99 per month and includes the following perks:
- Xbox Game Pass for consoles: You’ll get access to over a hundred games that you can install on your Xbox One, Xbox One X, Series S, or Series X.
- Xbox Game Pass for PC version: You will also get full access to over a hundred games on your Windows 10 or 11 PC.
- Xbox Live Gold: This service is required for online play on Xbox consoles. In addition to playing online, you’ll get 2-4 free games every month and special discounts on select purchases.
- Xbox Game Streaming: Cloud gaming on your PC, mobile devices, consoles, and even select Samsung Smart TVs.
- EA Play: Over 60 EA games included for download.
Still not sure if you want the Standard Service or the Ultimate Edition? Our Xbox Game Pass vs Ultimate guide can help you make that decision.
What games come with PC Game Pass?
The games available in the Xbox Game Pass for PC library are updated regularly, so the specific games available may change over time. However, the Xbox Game Pass for PC library typically includes a wide range of games from a wide variety of genres, including first-person shooters, role-playing games, sports games, and more.
Some examples of games that have been included in the Xbox Game Pass for PC library in the past (and/or still exist today) include:
- gears 5
- Forza Horizon 4
- outer worlds
- eternal torment
- Maine Craft
- memory of a fairy tale
- Myth II
- Myth III
- Fallout 3
- Halo: The Master Chief Collection
- Battletoads
- Pines Lighthouse
- wasteland 3
- Ori and the will of the wisps
- Sea of Thieves
- Formula 1 2020
- Fallout: New Vegas
- Fallout 4
- Fallout 76
Note that the availability of specific games in the Xbox Game Pass for PC library may vary depending on your location. Some games may not be available in all regions. You can check out the list of games available in your Xbox Game Pass for PC library through the Xbox app or by visiting the Microsoft Store on your PC.
Xbox PC Game Pass system requirements
The system requirements for games in Xbox Game Pass for PC library will vary depending on the game selected. However, most of the games in the Xbox Game Pass for PC library require a PC that meets the minimum system requirements listed below:
- OS: Windows 10 or later
- Healer: 1.5 GHz or faster
- memory: 4 GB of RAM
- Graphics: DirectX 11 or later with WDDM 1.0 driver
It should be noted that these are only the minimum system requirements, and some games may require higher hardware specifications in order to run smoothly. You can check the specific system requirements for a particular game by visiting the game’s page on the Microsoft Store or by checking the game developer’s website.
Xbox Game Pass alternatives for PC
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If you’re looking to stream games, there are some obvious alternatives like GeForce Now, Amazon Luna, or even Playstation Plus if you own a PlayStation 4 or PS5. If you are looking for a service that allows you to download PC games for a monthly subscription? Honestly, there aren’t a lot of alternatives outside of the Xbox Game Pass PC version. That said, you have two options, just keep in mind that neither has nearly the amount of games and variety in genres that you’ll find from Microsoft.
- EA Play: EA Play is a subscription service that gives members access to EA’s game library, exclusive in-game challenges and rewards, exclusive members-only content, and early beta access to select new releases. It is available on Xbox, PlayStation and PC platforms. Membership prices range from $5 to $15 per month.
- Ubisoft Plus: Ubisoft Plus is a subscription service that allows members to access the library of Ubisoft games, including new releases, on PC. It also includes additional content such as DLCs, expansions, and in-game items. Members can also play select games on Stadia. Pricing depends on whether you get the standard or premium service. The two services are $14.99 and $19.99, respectively.
Instructions
Regardless of which subscription you choose, all Xbox Game Pass PC tiers include the ability to download games to your PC, although some also add extras like game streaming. To download games from PC Game Pass, you’ll need to open the Xbox app on your PC and sign in. Click game arcade From the tab to the left side, browse the available games. Select the one you want and press last install. Once the game is over, you will be able to access the Play button to start it.
Unfortunately no. Xbox Game Pass for PC does not include Xbox Live Gold. Gold is a separate subscription that offers many online games, some free monthly games, and select other benefits on Xbox consoles and PC.
Have you tried to download but had problems? There are many reasons why you may not be able to install games from your PC library on your computer. The most common issues are: insufficient storage space, outdated drivers, network issues, or your hardware doesn’t meet the requirements for the game in question. In some cases, they can also be issues with the Microsoft Store. Unfortunately, there is no single easy fix, but checking these potential issues is a good starting point.