It feels like just yesterday that Xbox Game Pass launched, leaving many of us in awe at the concept of an all-you-can-eat buffet of games right at our fingertips. Now, with the rise of numerous game subscription services, each boasting vast libraries, the challenge lies in selecting the best option for your gaming needs. We've compiled a list of the top six video game subscription services to help you make an informed decision.
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
Best Overall
### Xbox Game Pass Ultimate – 1 Month Membership
1$19.99 at AmazonPlatforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, mobile phones and tablets, select TVs, Meta Quest headsets
Pricing:
- Game Pass Ultimate - $19.99/month
- PC Game Pass - $11.99/month
- Game Pass Core - $9.99/month
- Game Pass Standard - $14.99/month
Trial Period: First month for $1 (PC Game Pass only)
Since its launch in 2017, Xbox Game Pass has set the standard for subscription-based game services, often dubbed the "Netflix of video games" due to its expansive and ever-growing catalog. Xbox has expanded Game Pass to numerous platforms, making it accessible on almost any device, as showcased in their "This Is an Xbox" campaign.
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate stands out as the premier gaming subscription, offering access to hundreds of titles, including day-one releases from Xbox Game Studios, which now encompasses Bethesda and Activision Blizzard. This means instant access to blockbuster titles like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, and upcoming hits such as Doom: The Dark Ages and Fable. The service also includes EA Play, unlocking a vast library of EA and BioWare classics. Alongside high-profile games, Game Pass also features a robust selection of indie gems like Chants of Sennaar, Unpacking, and Planet of Lana.
One of the most compelling features of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is its cloud streaming capability, which allows you to play most of the Game Pass library anywhere with Wi-Fi. You can even play on a Fire TV Stick. No downloads or updates are necessary – just pick up and play, and seamlessly continue your game on your console or PC later.
Nintendo Switch Online
Best for Nintendo Games
12 Month Subscription### Nintendo Switch Online (Individual)
0See it at AmazonPlatforms: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
Pricing:
- Nintendo Switch Online: Individual - $3.99/month, $7.99/3 months, or $19.99/year | Family - $34.99/year
- Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Individual - $49.99/year | Family - $79.99/year
Trial Period: 7 days free
Nintendo Switch Online is a versatile subscription service available on the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. Beyond enabling online multiplayer for supported games, it provides access to a rich catalog of Nintendo Classics spanning over four decades. The standard subscription includes NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, while the Expansion Pack adds titles from the Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis. Nintendo Switch 2 owners also get access to select GameCube games at launch with the Expansion Pack.
The Expansion Pack further enhances your experience with Sega Genesis titles and select DLC packs for popular games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Splatoon 2, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Additionally, Nintendo Switch 2 subscribers receive the Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom Upgrade Packs as part of the Expansion Pack benefits.
In late 2024, Nintendo introduced the Nintendo Music app for Nintendo Switch Online members, allowing them to stream and download iconic tracks from beloved franchises such as Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, Metroid, and more.
PlayStation Plus
Best for PlayStation Games
Essential, Extra, & Premium### PlayStation Plus
0See it at PlayStationPlatforms: PS5, PS4, PlayStation Portal, PC/Mac, mobile devices and tablets
Pricing:
- Essential: $9.99/month, $24.99/3 months, or $79.99/year
- Extra: $14.99/month, $39.99/3 months, or $134.99/year
- Premium: $17.99/month, $49.99/3 months, or $159.99/year
Trial Period: None
Originally a free service when launched in 2010, PlayStation Plus has evolved into a multi-tiered subscription required for online play on PS5 and PS4. All tiers – Essential, Extra, and Premium – offer online multiplayer access, cloud storage for game saves, and exclusive content and discounts on the PlayStation Store.
The highlight of PlayStation Plus is its monthly free games, which subscribers can add to their library and play as long as their subscription remains active. PlayStation Plus Extra adds a curated catalog of downloadable games, including PlayStation exclusives like The Last of Us Part I, God of War, Spider-Man: Miles Morales, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, and Demon's Souls, as well as a selection of Ubisoft+ Classics from the Assassin's Creed, Far Cry, and The Division franchises.
PlayStation Plus Premium expands this with an even larger catalog of downloadable games, including classics from the PS1, PS2, and PSP eras. Subscribers also gain access to full game trials and a curated selection of movies from the Sony Pictures Catalog. PS5 Cloud Streaming is another standout feature, allowing you to stream many games from the PS Plus Game Catalog.
Apple Arcade
Best for Mobile Gaming
1 Month Free### Apple Arcade
0See it at ApplePlatforms: iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, Apple Vision Pro
Pricing: $6.99/month
Trial Period: 30 days free
Apple Arcade revitalized mobile gaming upon its 2019 launch, offering a refreshing alternative to the flood of ad-heavy and microtransaction-filled games. Its library of over 200 games contains no ads or in-app purchases, ensuring a premium gaming experience.
Apple Arcade's collection includes enhanced versions of classic mobile titles such as Angry Birds, Temple Run, and Jetpack Joyride, alongside indie hits like Balatro, Vampire Survivors, Dead Cells, and Stardew Valley. Games can be enjoyed on various Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple TVs, with support for popular third-party controllers like the DualSense and Xbox Wireless Controller.
With automatic iCloud syncing, your progress is saved across devices, and a single subscription can be shared with your family, offering great value for everyone.
Netflix
Best for Hybrid Gaming
$7.99 Per Month### Netflix Standard (With Ads)
0See it at NetflixPlatforms: Everywhere (for streaming), mobile phones and tablets (for games)
Pricing:
- Standard (with ads): $7.99/month
- Standard: $17.99/month
- Premium: $24.99/month
Trial Period: None
Most of us are familiar with Netflix, but did you know that your subscription includes access to over 120 games? Despite having over 300 million subscribers, less than 1% actually take advantage of this feature. If you have an Apple or Android device, you're missing out on some incredible games.
Since its gaming service began in 2021 with just five titles, Netflix has expanded its library to include heavy-hitters like Hades, Dead Cells, Death’s Door, GTA: San Andreas, Civilization VI: Platinum Edition, Katana Zero, Sonic Mania Plus, and Monument Valley I-III, alongside original IP-based games like Stranger Things and Squid Game.
While games are currently only available on iOS and Android devices, Netflix is testing game streaming on select smart TVs and through netflix.com. Alongside this, your subscription grants access to Netflix's extensive streaming library, keeping you entertained with the latest shows and movies.
Humble Bundle
Best for Discounts
$11.99 Per Month### Humble Choice
0See it at Humble BundlePlatforms: PC (via Steam/Windows), Mac/Linux (via Steam – certain titles)
Pricing: $11.99/month, $129/year
Trial Period: None
Humble Choice, a subscription service from Humble Bundle, offers PC gamers a curated selection of about eight games each month. These games are yours to keep forever, even if you cancel your subscription. The flexibility to skip months with less appealing lineups and resubscribe when desired adds to its appeal.
Games are typically redeemed via Steam keys, playable on PC (and Mac or Linux, where supported), or directly through the Humble app on Windows. Subscribers also gain access to the Vault, featuring over 50 DRM-free indie games. Additionally, Humble Choice members enjoy up to 20% off purchases in the Humble Store and contribute 5% of their subscription cost to charity.
Gaming Subscriptions FAQ
Which game streaming services have free trials?
As of now, Nintendo Switch Online offers a 7-day free trial, and Apple Arcade provides a generous 1-month trial. Xbox no longer offers a free trial for Game Pass Ultimate on consoles, having discontinued its $1 promotion in late 2024. Similarly, Sony does not provide free trials for PlayStation Plus, except for limited-time regional promotions.
How much should you spend on a gaming subscription?
Your spending on a gaming subscription should align with your gaming habits. If you focus on a single game for extended periods, purchasing games individually might be more cost-effective. However, if you enjoy exploring various genres and building a diverse game library, subscriptions can offer significant value.
Consider your typical monthly game spending. Subscriptions provide access to hundreds of games at a low cost, making them a budget-friendly option. Yet, if you frequently buy new releases, subscriptions may not add much value beyond occasional older titles. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is an exception, as it includes day-one access to Xbox first-party titles, making the cost of a single new game equivalent to several months of Game Pass.
AnswerSee Results
