New Xbox Game Pass Standard Now Available: A Comprehensive Guide
New Xbox Game Pass
- Game Pass Core ($9.99/month)
- Online console multiplayer
- Member discount of up to 50% off on select titles
- Access to catalog of select high-quality games updated 2-3x a year (currently has 44 titles with the latest update last month)
- PC Game Pass ($11.99/month)
- Access to hundreds of PC games
- Day-one titles
- Includes EA Play
- Riot Games benefits
- Discounts of up to 20%
- Game Pass Standard ($14.99/month)
- Includes all Game Pass Core benefits
- Access to hundreds of high-quality console games
- Game Pass Ultimate ($19.99/month)
- Includes all benefits from PC Game Pass, Game Pass Core, and Game Pass Standard
- Access to hundreds of games on console, PC, and cloud
- Day-one titles
- EA Play membership
- Premium member benefits (deals, discounts, free Perks)
- Cloud gaming
- Riot Games benefits
Which among the tiers do you think is the best deal?
Microsoft has expanded its Game Pass offerings with the introduction of the Xbox Game Pass Standard, which officially launched in September 2024. This new tier serves as a midpoint between the Game Pass Core and Game Pass Ultimate, offering a wealth of gaming content at an affordable price for console players. With its growing library of games, member perks, and seamless integration with the Xbox ecosystem, this plan caters to a wide audience of gamers.
In this article, we will explore the details of the Xbox Game Pass Standard, including its features, pricing, comparisons to other tiers, and its potential impact on the gaming community.
What is Xbox Game Pass?
Before diving into the specifics of the new Standard tier, let’s briefly cover what New Xbox Game Passis. Launched in 2017, Xbox Game Pass is a subscription-based service offering access to a vast library of video games for a flat monthly fee. Over the years, the service has grown significantly, with titles ranging from indie gems to blockbuster hits, including many day-one releases. New Xbox Game Pass
Initially designed for Xbox consoles, Game Pass has expanded to include PC gaming and cloud gaming options, making it accessible on a variety of devices. Its different subscription tiers (Core, PC Game Pass, and Ultimate) have catered to varying preferences and budgets, with the Game Pass Ultimate being the most feature-rich option. New Xbox Game Pass
Introducing the New Xbox Game Pass Standard
The Xbox Game Pass Standard tier is a new offering that balances the affordability of Game Pass Core with the extensive game library found in higher-tier subscriptions. It is tailored for console players who want a robust library of games but don’t need the extra features like cloud gaming or PC access that come with Ultimate. New Xbox Game Pass
Key Features of Xbox Game Pass Standard
- Extensive Game Library: The Standard tier offers access to hundreds of high-quality console games, including popular franchises such as Minecraft, Halo, Forza Horizon 5, and Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege.
- Online Multiplayer: The plan includes online multiplayer capabilities, allowing players to connect with friends and compete in titles like Call of Duty, Fortnite, and FIFA.
- Discounts on Games: Members get exclusive discounts of up to 20% on game purchases and up to 50% on select titles and add-ons. This is especially attractive to gamers looking to expand their library.
- Regular Updates: New games are added to the library regularly, with notable releases like Halo Infinite and Gears 5 becoming staples of the Game Pass lineup.
What It Lacks Compared to Game Pass Ultimate
While Xbox Game Pass Standard is a fantastic value for console gamers, it doesn’t include all the perks found in Game Pass Ultimate:
- No PC Access: Unlike Ultimate, which provides access to PC Game Pass, Standard is limited to console gaming only. This makes it ideal for those who solely play on Xbox but less appealing to players who enjoy gaming on multiple platforms.
- No Cloud Gaming: Ultimate includes cloud gaming, which allows users to stream games on mobile devices and even low-powered PCs. The Standard tier does not offer this feature, which means players must download games directly to their Xbox consoles.
- No Day-One Access to Major Releases: One of Ultimate’s key advantages is the ability to play certain new releases on their launch day. While Standard includes a rich library, it may not always have immediate access to the latest blockbuster titles as they release. New Xbox Game Pass
Pricing and Subscription Options
The Xbox Game Pass Standard subscription is priced competitively, sitting between the Core and Ultimate plans. This pricing strategy allows Microsoft to target players who want more than just the basic multiplayer experience offered by Game Pass Core but are not willing to pay for all the premium features of Game Pass Ultimate.
- Game Pass Core: The most affordable option, primarily focused on offering online multiplayer and a small selection of over 25 games.
- Game Pass Standard: Priced higher than Core but lower than Ultimate, Standard offers a vast library of games and online multiplayer without PC access or cloud gaming.
- Game Pass Ultimate: The top-tier subscription that includes everything from cloud gaming and PC access to exclusive perks like EA Play membership. New Xbox Game Pass
A Closer Look at Game Availability
One of the biggest selling points of the Standard tier is its extensive game library, which spans multiple genres and includes both first-party and third-party titles. Fans of Xbox Game Studios titles will particularly appreciate the inclusion of games like Halo Infinite, Forza Motorsport, and Age of Empires.
Some of the most anticipated titles available on Xbox Game Pass Standard include:
- Halo Infinite: A flagship title in the Xbox universe, known for its intense multiplayer modes and gripping campaign.
- Minecraft: The global sandbox phenomenon that continues to attract millions of players with its endless creative possibilities.
- Forza Horizon 5: A critically acclaimed racing game that takes players across diverse landscapes and offers both solo and multiplayer modes.
- Gears 5: A fan-favorite third-person shooter with a thrilling campaign and various multiplayer modes.
The sheer diversity of available titles ensures that players of all tastes can find something to enjoy. Whether you’re into role-playing games, first-person shooters, or sports simulations, Xbox Game Pass Standard provides access to top-quality content across the board. New Xbox Game Pass
Impact on the Gaming Community
The introduction of the Xbox Game Pass Standard reflects Microsoft’s continued effort to democratize gaming by offering various subscription options that suit different types of players. By providing an affordable mid-tier plan, Microsoft can appeal to casual gamers, families, and those who don’t need the premium features of Ultimate but want more than just Core.
Additionally, Game Pass’s ever-growing library allows developers to reach broader audiences. Indie developers, in particular, benefit from the exposure offered by Game Pass, as their titles can gain visibility in a crowded marketplace. For players, this means discovering new and innovative games that might have otherwise flown under the radar. New Xbox Game Pass
How Does Xbox Game Pass Standard Compare to Other Platforms?
When compared to other gaming services, such as Sony’s PlayStation Plus or Nintendo Switch Online, the Xbox Game Pass Standard holds up well in terms of value for money. While PlayStation offers its own tiered subscription service, PlayStation Plus, it doesn’t match the vast game library and regular content updates provided by Game Pass. Similarly, Nintendo Switch Online offers more limited access to legacy titles and online play but lacks the breadth of modern games found on Game Pass. New Xbox Game Pass
In terms of versatility and sheer content, Xbox Game Pass Standard represents a compelling option for Xbox players who want extensive access to modern games at a reasonable price point. New Xbox Game Pass
