Which Xbox Game Pass plan suits you best: Essential, Premium, Ultimate or PC Game Pass review

We compared prices, advantages and access to games after the restructuring of the service.

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With the price increase and reorganization of plans that Microsoft applied on October 1, 2025, many players are wondering which Xbox Game Pass plan is worth it the most. The new structure includes three main levels for console (Essential, Premium and Ultimate) along with PC Game Pass, each with different advantages, prices, and conditions for accessing games in the catalog.

These changes not only adjust the rates but also redefine what each subscription offers. Microsoft has added benefits such as Fortnite Crew in the Ultimate plan and improved connection quality in Xbox Cloud Gaming, while expanding the service’s compatibility with more platforms and adding extra content for the different levels.

For the uninitiated: Updated Xbox Game Pass prices

• Game Pass Essential – 8.99 € / month

• Game Pass Premium – 12.99 € / month

• PC Game Pass – 14.99 € / month

• Game Pass Ultimate – 26.99 € / month

The update also confirms that the Ubisoft+ Classics catalog will be included in Game Pass Ultimate, expanding the list of games available at no extra cost. Additionally, Microsoft promises an increase in Day One titles: the goal is to go from around 50 to over 75 direct launches on the service per year.

Differences between Essential, Premium, PC, and Ultimate

Each subscription level offers a distinct experience based on the device and the needs of each player:

• Essential: This is the basic plan focused on console. It includes online multiplayer, exclusive discounts, rewards, and access to a rotating catalog of over 50 games. It’s ideal for those looking for an affordable option to play on Xbox without needing cloud or PC access.

• Premium: Expands the experience of the previous level with access to Xbox Cloud Gaming, allowing for streaming play on console, PC, or mobile devices. However, it does not include Day One releases, which will arrive approximately one year after their official release.

• PC Game Pass: Designed for PC gamers, it offers immediate access to Day One releases from Xbox Game Studios and external partners, as well as EA Play and online features integrated with the Xbox App. It’s the best option for those who play exclusively on PC.

• Ultimate: This is the most comprehensive plan. It combines all the content from the previous plans with over 100 games on console, PC, and cloud, access to Fortnite Crew, additional rewards, EA Play, Day One titles, and benefits from Microsoft Rewards. It’s the recommended plan for those seeking the total Xbox ecosystem experience.

Microsoft emphasizes that this reorganization aims to “adjust the value to current market conditions” without changing the essence of the service. In other words: the higher plans continue to offer the complete Xbox Game Pass experience, while the lower ones prioritize flexibility and price.

If your goal is to play release titles from day one, Ultimate remains the most recommended choice. If, on the other hand, you prefer more limited but affordable access, Premium or Essential might adapt better to your gaming habits.