Xbox Ultimate Game Pass remains one of the most popular gaming subscriptions in the United States and across the world. As of December 2025, Microsoft’s service continues to expand, offering unmatched value by combining console, PC, and cloud gaming into one unified membership.
With millions of subscribers worldwide, Xbox Ultimate Game Pass has become a cornerstone of modern gaming—delivering hundreds of titles, day-one releases, and exclusive member benefits that make it one of the best deals in entertainment.
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What Xbox Ultimate Game Pass Includes
Xbox Ultimate Game Pass offers access to the complete Xbox Game Pass library, including:
- Hundreds of console and PC games, from blockbuster AAA titles to top-rated indie releases.
- Day-one access to all first-party Xbox titles, including major releases from Xbox Game Studios, Bethesda, and Activision Blizzard.
- EA Play membership, giving subscribers access to a large catalog of Electronic Arts games and early trials.
- Xbox Cloud Gaming, allowing users to stream games directly to mobile devices, tablets, and smart TVs without downloading.
- Online multiplayer via Xbox Live Gold, included as part of the Ultimate subscription.
For U.S. gamers, the combination of features provides flexibility unmatched by other gaming services. Whether on Xbox Series X, PC, or mobile, subscribers can access their favorite games anytime, anywhere.
Xbox Ultimate Game Pass Price and Subscription Options
As of December 2025, Xbox Ultimate Game Pass costs $16.99 per month in the U.S. This plan replaces the need for separate console and PC subscriptions by combining them under one membership.
Here’s how it compares to other Game Pass tiers:
| Plan | Monthly Price (U.S.) | Platforms | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Game Pass Core | $9.99 | Xbox Consoles | Online multiplayer, small rotating library |
| Game Pass for PC | $9.99 | Windows PC | Full PC catalog, EA Play access |
| Game Pass Ultimate | $16.99 | Console, PC, Cloud | Full library, EA Play, Xbox Live Gold, Cloud Gaming |
Microsoft has emphasized that the Ultimate tier remains the best value for gamers who want full access across platforms.
The company also continues to test family sharing options, allowing multiple users under one household to share a single subscription—an offering expected to expand in 2026.
New Additions to Xbox Ultimate Game Pass in December 2025
This month’s lineup of new releases has been one of the strongest of the year. December 2025 brings a wave of top-tier games to Xbox Ultimate Game Pass, including several highly anticipated titles:
- Avowed (Obsidian Entertainment) – The major fantasy RPG arrives on Game Pass day one, praised for its world-building and storytelling.
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III – Available through the Game Pass catalog following Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard.
- Hollow Knight: Silksong – The long-awaited sequel finally launches on console and PC with Game Pass access from release day.
- Persona 6 – Atlus’ latest RPG continues its partnership with Xbox, debuting directly on Ultimate Game Pass.
- Forza Horizon 6 (2025 Update) – Adds new cars, seasonal events, and dynamic weather features for subscribers.
These additions strengthen Microsoft’s promise of providing day-one access to major releases—something no other gaming subscription currently matches.
Activision Blizzard Integration Strengthens Xbox Ultimate Game Pass
One of the biggest developments for Game Pass came from Microsoft’s $68.7 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard, finalized in 2023. The deal continues to expand the subscription’s catalog with beloved franchises, including:
- Diablo IV
- Overwatch 2
- Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy
- Spyro Reignited Trilogy
- Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1+2
Perhaps the most impactful addition is the inclusion of Call of Duty titles. Starting in 2025, all future Call of Duty games are expected to launch directly on Xbox Ultimate Game Pass—making the service even more appealing to fans of first-person shooters.
This integration has been a game-changer for the industry, helping Microsoft close the gap between console exclusives and subscription accessibility.
Xbox Cloud Gaming Expands Accessibility
Cloud gaming continues to be one of the defining features of Xbox Ultimate Game Pass. Subscribers can stream more than 1,300 games across phones, tablets, and smart TVs—no console required.
In 2025, Microsoft expanded support for:
- Samsung and LG Smart TVs with native Game Pass apps.
- Meta Quest 3 VR headsets, enabling cloud gaming in virtual environments.
- ASUS ROG Ally and Logitech G Cloud handhelds, offering portable access to the full library.
Cloud gaming now delivers up to 120 FPS streaming on compatible devices, improving input response and visual quality. This progress has helped Game Pass reach new players who prefer flexibility over traditional console setups.
First-Party Titles Lead the Way
Microsoft’s commitment to releasing first-party titles on Xbox Ultimate Game Pass has been key to its success. With over 30 studios under the Xbox Game Studios and Bethesda umbrella, new releases are added every few weeks.
Some standout titles available in 2025 include:
- Starfield: Next-Gen Edition – Enhanced version featuring new planets and performance upgrades.
- Fable (2025) – Playground Games’ highly anticipated reimagining of the fantasy franchise.
- Perfect Dark – The reboot from The Initiative and Crystal Dynamics, exclusive to Game Pass.
- State of Decay 3 – Featuring co-op gameplay and expanded open-world systems.
- Everwild – Rare’s new artistic adventure game, showcasing creative storytelling and visuals.
These titles highlight Microsoft’s strategy of making every major first-party release available through Game Pass on launch day.
Benefits for PC Gamers
Xbox Ultimate Game Pass has also become a major force in PC gaming. The Windows version includes:
- Hundreds of PC-optimized titles.
- EA Play integration for extra access to EA’s catalog.
- Cross-platform play with Xbox consoles.
- Cloud saves and cross-progression for supported games.
Popular PC titles on Game Pass include Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, Age of Empires IV, Valorant, and League of Legends, thanks to Microsoft’s partnership with Riot Games.
This unified ecosystem allows gamers to transition seamlessly between devices without losing progress—an advantage few competitors offer.
Competitive Landscape in 2025
While rivals like PlayStation Plus Premium and Ubisoft+ have improved their offerings, Xbox Ultimate Game Pass remains the most comprehensive gaming subscription.
Its competitive edge comes from:
- Day-one releases of major titles.
- Cross-platform access across console, PC, and cloud.
- Consistent library updates with global releases.
- Exclusive benefits such as in-game content and early trials.
Industry analysts estimate that Game Pass now contributes over 25% of Microsoft’s gaming revenue, proving how crucial subscription models have become in the modern gaming market.
The Future of Xbox Ultimate Game Pass
Looking ahead, Microsoft plans to expand Xbox Ultimate Game even further in 2026. Upcoming features include:
- AI-powered game recommendations tailored to player habits.
- Expanded family plans allowing up to five members under one subscription.
- Improved cloud-native games designed specifically for streaming performance.
- Accessibility updates for players with disabilities.
With major studios like Bethesda, Activision Blizzard, and Obsidian continuing to release titles directly onto the platform, the future of Xbox Ultimate Game looks stronger than ever.
What are your favorite titles available on Xbox Ultimate Game Pass right now? Share your thoughts and recent discoveries in the comments below!