What is Xbox Game Pass Core and what is the difference from Xbox Live Gold?

In September 2023, Xbox introduced a new membership called Xbox Game Pass Core. But what is Xbox Game Pass Core? And how does it differ from Xbox Live Gold? In this article, we tell you everything you need to know!

Published on: 05-12-2023 Author: Kiki

What is Xbox Game Pass Core?

Xbox Game Pass Core is a subscription form that allows Xbox gamers to enjoy all kinds of benefits, such as online multiplayer gaming, free games, exclusive discounts and more. It is the replacement for Xbox Live Gold and the cheaper variant of Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.

What does this mean for members of Xbox Live Gold?

If you're subscribed to Xbox Live Gold, your membership is automatically converted to Xbox Game Pass Core as of September 2023 - without a price change.

Xbox One games you've claimed with your Xbox Live subscription will remain available as long as you have an active Xbox Game Pass Core or Ultimate subscription. Claimed original Xbox titles and Xbox 360 titles will remain available - regardless of whether you keep your subscription or not.

What is the difference between Xbox Live Gold and Xbox Game Pass Core?

Xbox Live Gold and Xbox Game Pass Core are almost identical. Apart from a similar price of £6,99 per month, here are all the other similarities between the two subscription types:

Acces to online multiplayer gaming
The chance to play different games during Free Play Days
Up to 50% off selected games (previously known as "Deals with Gold", now "Deals with Game Pass")

The biggest difference is that we have to say goodbye to Games with Gold, the games that were available to Xbox Live Gold members. Instead, Xbox Game Pass Core members can now enjoy an assortment of more than 25 games! Xbox is expected to add new titles two to thee times a year.

Which games can I play with Xbox Game Pass Core?

You can play a variety of games with Xbox Game Pass Core, including some Xbox 360 titles and online multiplayer games:

Among Us
Astroneer
Celeste
Dead Cells
Descenders
Dishonored 2
DOOM Eternal Standard Edition
Fable Anniversary
Fallout 4
Fallout 76
Firewatch
Forza Horizon 4 Standard Edition
Gang Beasts
Gears 5 Game of the Year Edition
Golf With Your Friends
Grounded
Halo 5: Guardians
Halo Wars 2: Standard Edition
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice
Human Fall Flat
Inside
Limbo
Ori and the Will of the Wisps
Overcooked! 2
PAYDAY 2: CRIMEWAVE EDITION
PowerWash Simulator
Psychonauts 2
Slay The Spire
Spiritfarer Farewell-editie
Stardew Valley
State of Decay 2: Juggernaut Edition
Superliminal
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge
The Elder Scrolls Online
Unpacking
Vampire Survivors

Buy Xbox Game Pass Core at Startselect now!

At Startselect, you can easily buy and renew your Xbox Game Pass Core subscription. Choose one of our gift cards, claim the code on your Xbox and enjoy your Xbox Game Pass Core subscription right away!

Xbox Game Pass Essential 12 months

£59.99

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Xbox Game Pass Essential 6 months

£30.99

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Xbox Game Pass Essential 3 months

£19.99

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About the author: Kiki is Team Lead Content and blog author at Startselect. For Xbox gamer guides, shopping tips, and binge-worthy Netflix series, follow her blogs! With a preference for RPGs and a love for K-drama, she shares her knowledge and insights on various topics.