What is the difference between Game Pass and Game Pass Ultimate in Xbox?

When it comes to subscription services, Microsoft’s Game Pass is unmatched. Every one of them is a fantastic buy for players of any skill level. However, the decision between Xbox Game Pass and Game Pass Ultimate may be difficult.

The Xbox Game Pass membership service offers access to hundreds of Xbox and PC games. Cloud Gaming also makes some of these features available on iOS and Android smartphones. They are different membership plans to choose from, each tailored to a specific set of devices.

Both Xbox Game Pass and Game Pass Ultimate provide the same services at first sight. And they do, to a great extent.

Both are subscription-based services that provide access to a wide range of AAA and independent titles for a fixed monthly charge. The primary distinction is in the availability of these games in different locations and the addition of other content.

A membership to Game Pass gives you unlimited access to a massive library of games for a flat monthly fee. When you sign up, you’ll get access to more than a hundred amazing games you can play on your computer, phone, or Xbox console (depending on the subscription). Access to this collection is precisely what subscribers to Xbox Game Pass and PC Game Pass pay for each month.

However, Game Pass lacks a crucial element most console players will require: Xbox Live Gold. This is necessary for (the majority of) online multiplayer games. This service, on its own, costs $9.99 monthly. It’s true that you don’t need Xbox Live Gold to play online free-to-play games like PUBG, Fortnite, and Halo: Infinite.

The Ultimate version of the Xbox Game Pass does come with a year of Xbox Live Gold. Xbox Game Pass, PC Game Pass, Xbox Live Gold, and Xbox Cloud are all included in the pricier membership.

Xbox Cloud Gaming is undoubtedly the most notable distinction between Xbox Game Pass and Game Pass Ultimate. This service is currently in testing, but it already supports playing AAA games on your computer or mobile device; Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is now required to utilize Microsoft’s game streaming service.

The streaming technology isn’t as powerful as GeForce Now or the defunct Google Stadia (it only supports 720p on mobile and 1080p on PC for the time being. Still, the inclusion of hundreds of titles gives it a major advantage. Moreover, since the Xbox Series X’s cloud-hosted hardware is constantly being improved, it will soon have more raw power than its rivals. However, as of early 2023, streaming performance is still a little shaky.