Xbox Game Pass vs Ultimate: What's the Difference? (2024)

They might have very similar names, but Xbox Game Core and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate offer quite different services. Both services offer fantastic value for money, providing you subscribe to the one that applies to your situation.

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate costs slightly more than Xbox Game Pass, so let's dive into the differences so you can decide which is best for you.

Overall Findings

If you own either an Xbox console or a gaming PC, then Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate are great options. Both provide a Netflix-style service whereby you can access games as part of the subscription fee. New titles are regularly added, with Xbox Game Studios launching on the service the same day as they're released.

Both Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate offer good value for money, providing their users with up to hundreds of games, kind of like Netflix for games. The difference here is that Xbox Game Pass requires you to choose to have this level of access for your PC or Xbox console, while Xbox Game Pass Ultimate provides a library of games for both formats.

Both Core and Ultimate bundle in features that used to be exclusive to Xbox Live Gold: console owners can play online and chat with their party members. PC players don't have that limitation, so Game Pass for PC doesn't include the feature.

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate offers a lot more, but it's pricier. If you simply want to play games on one system, then Xbox Game Pass will suit your needs perfectly, while saving you a little cash each month.

Compatibility: Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Works for More Systems

When it comes to compatibility, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is the most varied. It means you can play games on your PC and any Xbox console since the Xbox One.

In contrast, Xbox Game Pass requires you to pick one system and stick with it. That's fine if you only play PC games or you only play console games, but it can be restrictive if you plan on expanding your horizons. That's particularly true now that it's possible to stream games to your phone, which could be useful once in a while.

Games Library: Ultimate Is Better for Consoles

Both Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate's games libraries are extensive. There's something for everyone here. Major titles like Forza Horizon 4, the Halo franchise and the Gears franchise are all available on both PC and console. The games libraries also extend to include many indie titles too making this an ideal way to try something new without paying anything.

In certain cases, there are games only available for one format. This limitation is changing regularly over time with Microsoft working towards standardizing the catalog of games available.

Game Pass for PC and Ultimate both also include EA Play memberships, which offer even more options. Game Pass Core for console, however, has the smallest library of them all, with only a few dozen options. If you're looking for a huge library, PC and Ultimate are the clear options.

Pricing: You Get What You Pay for With Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Offering More

Xbox Game Pass is the cheapest option at a standard $9.99 per month via the Microsoft Store. If you only have one system to play games on, that's a good deal that's in line with Netflix prices. Either way, console owners can chat online or play with friends.

However, for an extra $7 a month, you get access to the games libraries for both PC and console, along with EA Play.

In terms of value for money, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate offers the most features but only if you will actually use them.

Final Verdict: Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Is the Best, but Only if You Need Its Services

If money is no object, then Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is the best deal. Even if you only game on one system, the massive library of titles at no extra cost offer a huge value. We'd recommend Xbox Game Pass Ultimate most of all for Xbox owners, especially with the day-one releases.

However, if you're on a budget, then Xbox Game Pass will still serve you well too, as you get access to plenty of games. In particular, if you only have a gaming PC, then Xbox Game Pass is a good option. If you're after the library, Game Pass Core for consoles is the weakest option by far.