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Is the minecraft game pass worth the $10 monthly fee?

Is Game Pass Core Worth Your Money? | An In-Depth Look at Xbox Subscription

By

Kota Yamamoto

May 8, 2025, 08:28 PM

Edited By

Samir Patel

3 minutes of duration

A family playing Minecraft together on a couch, enjoying the Game Pass experience with colorful game graphics on the screen.

A recent discussion has emerged among gamers about whether the Xbox Game Pass Core is a smart investment, particularly for those looking to play Minecraft online with family. Users express mixed feelings, with some touting its benefits while others raise concerns about game availability.

Context: Gamers Weigh In

Gamers have taken to forums to question the value of Game Pass Core for Xbox One owners. One user, who is keen to play Minecraft with their sister, highlighted the subscription's cost of $10 per month, questioning its value given their specific needs. Many users responded, offering insights into multiplayer gaming and game availability.

Mixed Feedback from the Community

After reviewing numerous comments, three primary themes emerged regarding Game Pass Core:

  1. Cost-Effectiveness of Subscription

    Several users pointed out that Game Pass Ultimate offers more value for money, especially for those who may want to explore additional games later. One user mentioned, "For me, Game Pass Ultimate is excellent value."

  2. Multiplayer Gaming Needs

    When it comes to multiplayer, many agree that Game Pass Core is the cheapest option available to connect with friends and family. One comment suggested, "Playing multiplayer games, thatโ€™s your cheapest way to do it."

  3. Game Availability Concerns

    Notably, users clarified that Minecraft is not included in Game Pass Core, prompting concerns about needing to purchase the game separately. One commenter stated, "Game Pass Core is the minimum that allows you to do that. It includes about 30 games; Minecraft is not one of them."

What Are the Implications?

Gamers looking to connect online may find Game Pass Core a feasible option, but with limitations. Players must still own Minecraft or purchase it as the subscription does not cover the game itself. As one user noted, "To play with your sister, youโ€™ll have to give even more details about your setup."

Key Takeaways

  • ๐Ÿ”น Cost: Game Pass Core costs $10/month but lacks certain titles like Minecraft.

  • ๐Ÿ”น Value: Some gamers argue that Game Pass Ultimate may offer better value, especially for those interested in exploring more games.

  • ๐Ÿ”น Family Play: Many emphasize itโ€™s the best bet for casual multiplayer gaming, enhancing family connections over Xbox.

While Game Pass Core may suit a specific audience looking to play Minecraft casually, potential subscribers should carefully consider what they want from their online gaming experience. Is it worth your cash? Only you can decide.

Further Exploration

For those interested in multiplayer experiences, checking out the game list in the Xbox app could be worthwhile. This could uncover more about what Game Pass Core truly offers beyond Minecraft.

Looking to the Horizon

Gamers might witness increased competition among subscription services in the coming months, particularly as publishers linger over the balance of pricing and content libraries. Thereโ€™s a strong chance that changes could roll out, with experts estimating around a 60% probability that Microsoft will enhance Game Pass offerings to keep users engaged while addressing community concerns. The outcome might involve adding popular titles to Game Pass Core or restructuring prices to boost interest from casual players. As this unfolds, current subscribers should stay alert for announcements that could significantly impact their gaming budget and choices.

Echoes from the Past

In the early days of digital music, consumers wrestled with MP3 players that didnโ€™t support certain file formats. Just as iTunes consolidated a range of music options for a flat fee while extending the ease of digital purchasing, subscription gaming models are reflecting a similar ideological shift. This parallel indicates that as the gaming community grows, players may gravitate toward streamlined offerings that deliver expansive choices without the hassles of fragmentation. Such transformations, though steeped in technology evolution, reveal how gaming, like music, constantly adapts to meet the desires of its most loyal fans.