Talking Point: Have You Been Tempted To Switch To Xbox Game Pass Standard?

Last year, Microsoft launched Xbox Game Pass Standard, phasing out its 'Console' tier of the subscription service at the same time. When it was revealed, we questioned the need for its existence, especially given how great Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is and the extras that are included in that service. However, with Game Pass Standard seemingly growing at a faster and faster rate these days, we think it's becoming a more appealing option in 2025.

As of late, our Pure Xbox Game Pass roundups are being flooded with new GP Standard arrivals. Of course, these aren't day one launches — that's not what the mid-tier service is targeting — but more and more of the GP Ultimate library seems to be moving over at the moment. Today's library refresh included five Standard titles and just two additions to the main Ultimate library!

As we broke down in a recent guide, Xbox Game Pass Standard is $5 a month cheaper than Ultimate following the latter tier's recent price hike. While you do get a lot for your extra five bucks — EA Play, first-party launches and Xbox Cloud Gaming access — $5 every month when there's a million subscriptions out there these days isn't something to sniff at. It's a fairly big bump when added up over the course of a few years!

Another thing, is that there are just so many games to play these days, that it can be hard to keep track of every new day one launch - let alone get around to actually playing them! As ardent Xbox followers we of course use GP Ultimate to keep on top of things, but as someone who would just want access to a good library of games plus online play? Game Pass Standard is becoming a more appealing offer for that sort of player.

Anyway, we want to know what you think to all of this! Tell us via the polls down below which GP tier you're subscribed to, and whether you're liking the look of Standard as we head into 2025.

Which Tier Of Game Pass Do You Use? (485 votes)

  1. Xbox Game Pass Core%
  2. Xbox Game Pass Standard%
  3. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate%
  4. None%

Are You Tempted To Switch To Standard From Another Tier? (405 votes)

  1. Yep, I'm going to move over%
  2. I'm considering changing%
  3. Nope, I'm happy with the tier I'm on%