Following tease in late 2018, Microsoft has announced that Xbox Game Pass, its in-house Xbox game subscription service, is headed to PC. The Xbox One subscription service has become a centerpiece of its gaming offerings, now making a natural expansion to Windows 10.
Xbox Game Pass for PC packs over 100 digital games via Windows 10's integrated Microsoft Store, accessible under the subscription for a flat monthly fee. Microsoft has announced ongoing efforts among 75 partnered publishers and developers, bringing titles from Bethesda, Deep Silver, Devolver Digital, Paradox Interactive, and SEGA to the marketplace. Also enabling full support for native Win32 games via the Microsoft Store, the move further bolsters its expanding presence into the PC space.
Xbox Game Pass for PC will additionally host over 20 upcoming Xbox Game Studios titles on launch day, including top 2019 Microsoft titles from Gears 5 to the remastered Age of Empires trilogy. Expect further first-party powerhouses too, from the highly-anticipated Halo: The Master Chief Collection and Halo Infinite for PC. PC subscribers gain purchasing benefits like the Xbox One counterpart, offering discounts on Windows 10 games and add-on content.
"Two years ago, we launched Xbox Game Pass on Xbox One, and since then we've seen how valuable a curated library of high-quality games can be for players and game developers alike," said Phil Spencer, executive vice-president of Gaming at Microsoft. "We researched whether a similar opportunity exists for PC players and PC game developers, and we believe that it does. We also considered the importance of bringing something new and additive to the PC gaming ecosystem, and we believe that we can. So, we designed a service specifically for the needs of PC gamers and PC game developers."
Microsoft plans to further detail Xbox Game Pass for PC at E3 2019 in early June. Expect firmer details on the service's availability and pricing, alongside a more comprehensive list of supported titles. In the meantime, Xbox Game Pass for Xbox One is available starting at $10 per month.
More games than you can handle
Microsoft's Netflix-style subscription service serves over 100 varied titles for a monthly fee. From hit franchises to experimental indies, Xbox Game Pass has value for all.
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.
