The Game Pass Dilemma: Quantity vs. Value
Hey gamers! Let’s take a trip back to 2023, a year filled to the brim with amazing games. The only problem? Trying them all would have cost a fortune! Well, unless you were a Game Pass subscriber. In 2023, Game Pass hosted over $5,000 worth of games, but here’s the real question: how many of those did you actually play?
The Value of Game Pass
Now, I know that $5,000 figure sounds impressive, but let’s be honest, it doesn’t necessarily translate to actual value for every subscriber. Sure, Game Pass offers a massive library of games across console, PC, and Cloud Gaming, but are any of us really downloading and playing every single new release? Or even 50% of the games available?
My Personal Game Pass Journey
Speaking from personal experience, I’ve never kept my Game Pass subscription active for more than a month at a time. Why? Well, it’s simple. Game Pass is a fantastic service for trying out new games without breaking the bank. It allowed me to discover my favorite game of 2023, Hi-Fi Rush, along with gems like the Dead Space Remake and Like a Dragon: Ishin. And let’s not forget how it saved me from wasting money on disappointments like Redfall and Starfield. A handful of great releases for just a few months of subscription? Definitely worth it!
And I’m not alone in this approach. Our senior staff writer, Mark Warren, shares a similar sentiment. He uses Game Pass selectively throughout the year, enjoying titles such as Forza Motorsport, Jusant, Like a Dragon: Gaiden, and Madden 2023. Mark even downgraded to the base PC Game Pass after his free Game Pass Ultimate trial expired. But overall, he still finds it worthwhile.
However, both Mark and I pale in comparison to video producer Jim Trinca and Deputy Editorial Director Tom Orry. These two power users claim to have played an impressive 16 and 30+ games, respectively. From AAA blockbusters to indie darlings, they’ve truly made the most of their Game Pass subscriptions. When it comes to pure stats, each of us has played enough games to make the yearly price tag worth it.
The Discovery Factor
Now, let’s talk about the exciting aspect of discovery. Jim, in particular, is a big fan of this feature. Game Pass has encouraged him to check out games like Bookwalker and Weird West, which he later purchased during Steam Sales to use on his Steam Deck. It’s worth mentioning that both game developers and publishers have acknowledged the influx of new players Game Pass brings to their games. It’s a win-win for everyone involved!
Game Pass in 2024: What’s Next?
Looking ahead to 2024, Game Pass continues to be a service worth keeping an eye on. With highly anticipated titles like Stalker 2, Persona 3: Reloaded, and Flintlock: Siege of Dawn on the horizon, there’s no shortage of excitement. Game Pass is evolving and providing new gaming experiences that keep us hooked.
Your Game Pass Experience
Now it’s your turn, gamers! How many Game Pass games did you download last year? Remember, the whole selling point of this service is to enhance your gaming experience without breaking the bank. If you’re like us and getting great value for your money, then it’s all good. But if you’re not, does that $5,000 figure really matter?