After a month of testing with Xbox Insiders & FTC’s strong stance against raising prices, the Xbox Game Pass Standard tier is now officially available. This plan includes access to the extensive Game Pass library for Xbox consoles, providing hundreds of games and online multiplayer capabilities. However, it does not feature day-one access to new game releases—an option reserved for the more premium tiers.
Xbox Game Pass Standard: A detailed overview
Xbox Game Pass Standard is Microsoft’s latest addition to its subscription service lineup, offering a balanced and versatile gaming experience for console enthusiasts. Here are its core features:
- Game library:
- Extensive selection: Xbox Game Pass Standard provides access to a large library of games for Xbox consoles. Subscribers can explore hundreds of titles spanning various genres, from action-packed adventures to strategy and simulation games.
- Popular titles: The library includes well-known franchises like Halo, Forza Horizon, and Minecraft. The collection is designed to offer a broad range of gaming experiences, ensuring there’s something for every type of player.
- Online multiplayer:
- Social gaming: Standard subscribers benefit from online console multiplayer. This feature allows players to connect with friends and other gamers around the world, participate in co-op missions, and compete in multiplayer modes.
- Discounts and deals:
- Exclusive offers: The plan includes access to member-only discounts on games and add-ons. This can help save money on purchases and enhance the overall gaming experience with additional content and expansions.
Xbox Game Pass Standard is priced at $14.99 per month, balancing affordability and features. It’s available to both new and existing Xbox console owners, offering a wide range of games and online multiplayer access without the premium cost of the Ultimate tier.
What’s not included?
Unlike the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass tiers, Xbox Game Pass Standard does not include immediate access to new first-party titles on their release day. Games released on the same day as their official launch will not be available in the Standard library right away. Instead, these titles may be added at a later date, potentially up to 12 months or more, depending on the game. Here are all the differences:
| Feature | Xbox Game Pass Core | Xbox Game Pass Standard | Xbox Game Pass PC | Xbox Game Pass Ultimate |
| Monthly Cost | $9.99 | $14.99 | $11.99 | $19.99 |
| Game Library | 25+ games | Hundreds of games | Hundreds of games | Hundreds of games |
| Day-One Releases | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Online Console Multiplayer | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| EA Play Membership | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Riot Games Benefits | No | No | No | Yes |
| Cloud Gaming | No | No | No | Yes |
| Member Discounts | Up to 50% off | Discounts on games and add-ons | Discounts on games and add-ons | Enhanced discounts and perks |
| Additional Perks | None | None | None | Free perks and additional benefits |
Is Xbox Game Pass Standard worth it?
Xbox Game Pass Standard is ideal for console gamers who want a substantial game library and online multiplayer access without the additional features and higher cost of premium plans. It’s a great choice for budget-conscious players seeking a balance between affordability and a rich gaming experience, offering significant value while excluding day-one access to the latest releases.
Featured image credit: Xbox
