Xbox Game Pass Essential games list (formerly Game Pass Core)

Just take a look at what games are on Xbox Game Pass Essential, and you'll find plenty of compelling experiences. Whether you're interested in thrilling shooters or captivating indie adventures, there's something for everyone.

Track Xbox Game Pass Essential games list on GG.deals

Look no further than our website when searching for the Xbox Game Pass Essential games list, discounts, or the latest gaming updates. We aggregate offers from numerous stores, including official distributors and key shops, comparing prices for titles and DLC. Moreover, we also do that for prepaid cards and subscription services, helping you to cut down on monthly costs. As you might have guessed, you can easily track Xbox Game Pass Essential prices on GG.deals! All offers are conveniently displayed in one place. To find them, simply check out our page with cheap XGP Essential. There, you can quickly find the best bargains by simply glancing at the page.

If you wish to learn more about the benefits of this subscription-based service, we recommend staying on this page. Here, you can effortlessly navigate the catalog to discover what games are on Xbox Game Pass Essential and explore many other presets we've prepared. Using our tags and filters, you can refine your search based on your preferences. No matter what you're looking for, you'll find it quickly with our help! Plus, you can check the top deals, available editions, and more with just one click.

If the current offers don't align with your budget, don't worry. Our registered users have the option to set up price alerts. Select any game card, specify your criteria, and you'll receive a notification once they're met! This not only saves you time but also money! And you don't need to scour through all the deals yourself. As you can see, our website is the go-to spot for gamers of all tastes and budgets!

What is Xbox Game Pass Essential?

If you're wondering, "What is Xbox Game Pass Essential?" We're here to explain. It's the basic subscription tier for Microsoft's gaming service, offering various perks. As a member, you'll have access to online multiplayer, including both competitive and cooperative modes. You'll also be treated to a library of over 50 high-quality titles! The Xbox Game Pass Essential games list includes gems like Gears 5 GOTY Edition and Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice. They will undoubtedly provide you with countless hours of engaging gameplay.

Finally, you'll be eligible for special offers that save money on select titles from the Microsoft Store. Per year, you may also earn up to $25 in-store credit by participating in a special reward program. These will certainly come in handy whenever you're on a tight budget. Considering all the perks you get, becoming a member is worth it. You can play games online with friends and dive into some awesome gaming adventures at the same time. You could always give it a try for a bit and cancel if it's not for you. But trust us, you won't want to stop once you subscribe.

When was Xbox Game Pass Core renamed to Game Pass Essential?

At the beginning of October 2025, Microsoft announced changes to the names of Game Pass tiers. In addition, the company raised subscription prices and modified the perks available to members by introducing new bonuses while cutting some existing ones, such as the ability to stream games via Xbox Cloud at the highest video resolution and bitrate for the lower tiers. These changes were controversial among many long-term fans, especially since they came shortly after Microsoft had already raised the prices of Xbox consoles.

How much is Game Pass Essential?

As the basic subscription tier for Microsoft's gaming service, it's the most budget-friendly option for console gamers. The Game Pass Essential price is set at $9.99 per month. If your main interest is multiplayer sessions, this is the plan for you. However, you may want to upgrade to the higher-tier Games Pass Premium if you'd love to explore a wide range of titles without expanding your collection. Although it costs $14.99 monthly, it gives you access to a bigger library of games, including indies and AAA hits, and other perks.

Additionally, if the current Game Pass Essential price doesn't fit your budget, you can check out our Prepaids section for potential deals. You may discover discounts that let you enjoy the service without breaking the bank. We aggregate offers from dozens of stores, some of which offer savings of up to 50% off the regular fee. It's definitely worth checking out!

Is Xbox Game Pass Essential better than Ultimate?

At this point, you're probably wondering which plan would be a better fit for you. Before making a decision, it's best to weigh the pros and cons of each. For now, let's see what they have in common. Each tier offers multiplayer gaming on consoles, so you can choose either if you want to have fun online with friends. Both also provide special member-only deals that let you save big on purchases in the Microsoft Store. However, the selection of all games on Xbox Game Pass Essential is far more limited compared to Ultimate.

If you're eager to explore a vast array of titles, upgrading might be the way to go. Don't just take our word for it, check out the XGP games list to see what's included. It's important to note that the Ultimate tier has a hefty price tag of $29.99 per month, which may not be affordable for everyone. On the other hand, the Essential plan costs only $9.99 per month. Fortunately, you can track Xbox Game Pass Essential prices on GG.deals and save big no matter which one you choose! In the end, the choice between the two boils down to your individual preferences and needs.