Choosing between PlayStation Now and Xbox Game Pass can be tough since both feature similar offerings. Here, we break down their differences to help you decide!
The way we consume video games has evolved rapidly in the past decade or so. Previously, the only way to play a game was to visit a brick-and-mortar shop to purchase it in physical format. While that option still remains, digital downloads, streaming, and subscription services have been brought to the forefront, giving consumers more convenient options for playing modern games. Two of the biggest platform holders, Sony and Microsoft, have their own game subscription services with PlayStation Now and Xbox Game Pass, respectively. Both of these services are similar, giving you a robust offering of games for a monthly (or yearly) fee. While these two services have a lot in common, each has its own unique features that separate them. For potential buyers, it’s worth being aware of the differences between the two, so you can make an informed purchase. Here, we’ll go through a robust breakdown of PS Now vs. Xbox Game Pass, focusing on what makes them different, while highlighting their most appealing features. Recommended reading: In short, PS Now and Xbox Game Pass are subscription services that offer hundreds of digital games, each playable on console (or PC) for a monthly fee. This means you can play from a selection of games without actually buying them (so long as they remain on the service). Think Netflix, but for games. To access both, you must have an internet connection in order to download (or stream) the games that make up each list. With PS Now, you’re able to download certain PS2 and PS4 games on your PS4 and PS5 systems (as well as PC), while PS3 games are also playable, but can only be streamed (more on that below). With Xbox Game Pass, you gain access to hundreds of games across the Xbox family of systems, including Xbox Series X| S. A PC option is available as well, though it’s separate from the standard Xbox Game Pass subscription. The nice thing is that every first-party Microsoft game is available day and date through Xbox Game Pass, meaning you’ll never have to buy Halo, Gears, Forza, or any Bethesda game again. Certain games across both services are only available for a limited time, but for the most part, each list continues to grow over time. Again, this is like Netflix, wherein there’s a rotation of content in addition to the permanent offerings that stay on each platform. This keeps things fresh and instills a bit of urgency to play the games that are only available for a limited time. One of the biggest differences between the two services is the games available on each. This will be a major deciding factor when choosing between the two, so you’ll want to pick the service that includes games you like — or ones you’ve been wanting to try. Many of us who play games have a hefty backlog, so what better way to catch up than by utilizing a subscription service? Below, we’ll compare some of the services’ most popular games. PS Now has an immense library of 700-plus games, ranging in genre and across multiple platforms. It features PS2, PS3, and PS4 games all in one convenient place. Most importantly, PS Now is home to many of Sony’s first-party exclusives, which are usually of high quality. Be sure to take a look at the full list on the PlayStation site here. We won’t go through all the games it has available, but we’ll list some of the major highlights below: While Xbox Game Pass doesn’t have as many titles as PS Now, the lineup is excellent and may feature a selection that is more up your alley.
