A leak of Microsoft’s internal communications unveiled significant data from the past, accessible to everyone. While there’s much to discuss, a key revelation is how much Game Pass costs Xbox. We always suspected Microsoft invested heavily in its live service, but the accurate figures exceeded expectations.
Over recent years, Xbox has emphasised the Game Pass service rather than focusing on console sales. That’s why they provide subscribers access to the year’s biggest games (Including non-exclusives) from day one at no extra cost.
Maintaining blockbuster titles like Grand Theft Auto 5 or Baldur’s Gate 3 in the Game Pass collection is costly. Based on exchanges between Phil Spencer and Sarah Bond, Xbox shells out tens of millions monthly on this.
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Game Pass Costs Way More Than $100 Million Monthly
Starfield was initially slated for a 2022 release and leaked emails show that Xbox had tailored its plans and budget around that. Phil Spencer labelled the delay a “Disaster”, fearing a gap in delivering significant exclusives to Game Pass subscribers.
Microsoft’s VP, Sarah Bond, while sharing Spencer’s concerns, countered with a more optimistic view in her response. She pointed out their rich collection of major titles, the capability to maintain these hits on Game Pass, and provided forecasts on player engagement with the new releases.
Further into the mail, she detailed the Game Pass costs associated with flagship game titles. The leaked emails from Microsoft break down these costs for major games as follows:
- Star Wars Jedi: Survivor: $300 million
- Suicide Squad: $250 million
- Mortal Kombat 1: $250 million
- Assassin’s Creed Mirage: $100 million
- Gotham Knights: $50 million
- Dying Light 2: $50 million
- LEGO Star Wars: $35 million
- Wreckfest 2: $10-$14 million
- Grand Theft Auto V: $12-$15 million per month
- Red Dead Redemption 2: $5 million per month
- Dragon Ball: The Breakers: $20 million
- Just Dance: $5 million
- Return to Monkey Island: $5 million
- Baldur’s Gate 3: $5 million
- Blood Runner: $5 million
- Net Crisis Glitch Busters: $5 million
- Cities: Skylines 2: unknown
Please note, for games with monthly costs like Red Dead Redemption 2 and Grand Theft Auto V, their total Game Pass costs could potentially exceed other games if we account for the number of months they were in production or operation.
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Xbox’s Predictions Didn’t Completely Realise
Sarah Bond’s list showcases Game Pass costs to Xbox. But glancing at the list now, it seems their plans still need to hit the mark. Take Assassin’s Creed Mirage, for instance — it’s been delayed until October 2023. And Suicide Squad? We’re hoping for a 2024 release, fingers crossed.
Baldur’s Gate 3, hailed as a top-tier game, is set to be on Game Pass for just $5 million. That can’t be right. It’s hard to imagine Larian Studios agreeing to this, especially when the game isn’t even on Xbox but on PlayStation 5.
Interestingly, even without Mortal Kombat 1 on Game Pass, Xbox’s monthly bill tops $100 million. It’s a hefty sum, and it’ll be interesting to see if Microsoft tweaks its strategy.
That wraps up our current insights on what Game Pass costs Xbox. Stay tuned for more updates on these leaks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does Game Pass Actually Cost?
Game Pass costs different prices depending on the version you choose. The standard PC Game Pass and Xbox Game Pass cost $9.99 monthly, but the Game Pass Ultimate costs $16.99 monthly. Prices might differ based on your location. Remember, Microsoft often has deals on yearly plans, so keep a lookout.
Is Xbox Gold Still a Thing?
As of September 14, Xbox Gold Live has been renamed to Xbox Game Pass Core. While the service remains similar, it’s now called Core because of the rebrand. Like Live Gold, the Core subscription costs $9.99 a month or $59.99 a year. You can find more details in this guide.
What’s the Maximum Game Pass Subscription Length?
You can get a Game Pass subscription for up to 36 months. Given the expected price rise in the future, opting for a bulk subscription is wise. This choice can be cost-effective over time if you have an Xbox or a gaming PC. Alternatively, there are always monthly or yearly options.
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