What you need to know
- Xbox Game Pass Ultimate was previously only available to Xbox Insiders.
- You can purchase it now for $1 for first month.
- After that you'll be charged $15 a month.
- You can purchase Xbox Game Pass Ultimate through the Microsoft Store.
Updated June 9, 2019: Microsoft confirmed that Xbox Game Pass Ultimate includes Xbox Game Pass for Console Games, Xbox Game Pass for PC Games, and Xbox Live Gold.
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate combines Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Live Gold into one complete package. There are rumors that it will also include certain Windows 10 games and access to Project xCloud game streaming when it's available later this year, but that hasn't been confirmed as of yet. While it's been available to select Xbox Insiders for a few weeks, anyone can subscribe to the service for $1 a month right now.
Keep in mind that the $1 price is just for the first month. After your trial expires, you'll be charged $15 a month. In a few months when retailers like Amazon offer discounts on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, you should stock up so you don't have to pay $15 a month. We're noticing similar discounts on Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Live Gold right now. A special introductory offer of $20 for three months should also be revealed at E3 2019.
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate also seems like it gives better perks. For example, some leaked promotional images say that Gears 5: Ultimate Edition will be included with the service. The regular Xbox Game Pass gives you just the standard edition it seems. If this trend continues in the future, with the top-of-the-line editions being available through Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, that's by far the best deal.
The biggest question on peoples' mind is what happens to your prepaid months of Xbox Live Gold or Xbox Game Pass when you join Xbox Game Pass Ultimate? When you join Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Microsoft will apply any prepaid time you have on Xbox Live Gold or Xbox Game Pass towards Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. You can only get up to 36 months so don't go crazy trying to buy a decade-long subscription. For example, if you have three months of Xbox Live Gold and three months of Xbox Game Pass already on your account, you'll have a total of seven months of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate before you need to renew.
Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Live Gold in one
Xbox Game Pass gives you access to over a hundred games for one monthly fee. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate also adds Xbox Live Gold to the package so you can play online with your friends. You can either get a one-month trial for $1 from the Microsoft Store or a three-month subscription for $20 through Amazon.
Xbox accessories you'll love
Every one of these quality accessories is guaranteed to enhance your Xbox experience.
PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox One ($20 at Amazon)
PowerA's take on the Xbox One controller is an attractive pickup for budget-conscious gamers that nails all the basics.
Talon PDP Xbox media remote ($20 at Amazon)
The Talon PDP Xbox media remote is great for watching shows on your console.
Xbox One S vertical stand ($10 at Amazon)
Stand your console upright with this accessory.
