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Game pass or ultimate: is it worth the investment?

Xbox Game Pass Dilemma | Should Users Opt for Ultimate?

By

Derek Johnson

May 19, 2025, 06:43 PM

Edited By

Clara Evers

2 minutes of duration

A gamer looking at options for Xbox Game Pass and Ultimate, with EA FC 25 in the background.

Amid rising discussions on social forums, gamers are weighing whether to invest in Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. A notable debate has emerged over the value of day-one releases versus the current limitations faced by users on older consoles.

An Xbox One owner expressed concerns about not accessing most Ultimate features, particularly noting their interest in EA FC 25. This raises critical questions about the overall utility of subscribing to Ultimate when game availability is limited.

Gamers Weigh In on Subscription Options

Several comments reveal varied opinions regarding the situation.

  • Cost Considerations: A user remarked, "Wonโ€™t it be cheaper just to buy the game outright," highlighting the financial aspect of subscriptions versus direct purchases.

  • Specific Interests: Another asserted, "It's just the only game I want on EA Play is FC 25," indicating that personal gaming preferences play a significant role in subscription decisions.

  • Regional Accessibility: Concerns were also raised about limited availability, with one comment stating, "Donโ€™t think itโ€™s available in my country."

Interestingly, a suggestion was made regarding cloud gaming. A participant noted, "If you have decent internet, then you can play new Xbox Game Pass games on Xbox One via cloud," showcasing a potential workaround for accessing newer games without upgrading the console.

The Great Subscription Debate

The conversation reflects broader trends in gaming, where subscription models are increasingly scrutinized.

"It seems like a real gamble on what games will actually be available," said one community member, pointing out frustrations with current offerings.

Key Points of Consideration

  • ๐Ÿ’ฐ Users question the value of Ultimate against outright game purchases.

  • ๐ŸŽฎ Specific titles are driving interest; EA FC 25 is a major focus.

  • ๐ŸŒ Regional disparities in availability complicate the decision-making process.

As 2025 progresses, gamers continue to evaluate how subscription services fit into their lifestyles, weighing immediate access against long-term investment.

What's on the Horizon?

As gamers continue to evaluate the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, thereโ€™s a strong chance subscriptions will evolve to better align with user needs. With increased competition among gaming services, companies may prioritize expanding their libraries and regional availability. Experts estimate around 60% of gamers are leaning toward balancing subscription costs with game accessibility. If cloud gaming sees improvements, it could transform how players interact with gaming content, possibly making it more appealing to those hesitant to commit.

Echoes of the Music Industryโ€™s Shift

In a way, this situation mirrors the transition within the music industry during the early days of streaming. Just as listeners grappled with album purchases versus subscription services like Spotify, todayโ€™s gamers are caught in a similar dilemma with their gaming subscriptions. The early reluctance to embrace a monthly fee for unlimited access led to the mainstream acceptance of streaming, as artists and content creators shifted their models. Gaming subscriptions may follow suit, with an emphasis on offering flexibility and appealing directly to player interests, much as music platforms now cater to diverse listening habits.