Microsoft has a lot invested in its gaming division. They are constantly releasing new projects for GamePass and have many purchased game studios. Not surprisingly, the latest news suggests another development of GamePass.
A little over a week ago it was leaked that Microsoft would introduce new GamePass subscription options for families. Now Microsoft has officially announced the launch of Game Pass Friends & Family. It offers all the same benefits as Game Pass Ultimate, but you can add up to four people to your subscription. It will cost 22 euros ($22) per month. The subscription was introduced in Ireland, where a one-person monthly subscription costs 13 euros. It turns out that a family subscription would cost a third of that for a single person – just €4.40 ($4.40) a month for each.
Of course, this subscription will not be limited to your family. You can add absolutely any user to your subscription. The only more technical limitation is that your accounts must be registered in the same country.
At the moment Microsoft only launched the service in 2 countries – the Republic of Ireland and Colombia. Microsoft stated in its FAQ that “Other countries/regions may be added in the coming months”. At this moment we only have to wait for more information about availability in other countries and prices.
You will be able to convert your existing subscription. It will be calculated on the price difference. For example for 30 days of Game Pass Ultimate, you will get 18 days of Game Pass Friends & Family and for 30 days of Xbox Game Pass or Live Gold, you will get 12 days. For 30 days of EA Play, you’ll get 6 days of Game Pass Friends & Family.
The Verge reports that in the U.S. the subscription will cost about $25 or $5 per month per person. Since Xbox Game Pass or PC Game Pass costs $10 per month and Game Pass Ultimate with multiplayer is $15, this offer seems logical and lucrative. As well, a GamePass family subscription will give you access to the rest of Microsoft’s gaming services, such as Xbox Cloud Gaming, Xbox Live, and more.
