For the first time, I'm questioning if Xbox Game Pass is still worth it for me. Game Pass Essential ($9.99/month), previously known as Game Pass Core, previously known as Xbox Live Gold (keep up with me here), has been beefed up significantly. We have a comprehensive breakdown of everything that's included in the Xbox Game Pass changes here. In addition to the above, PC Game Pass, which was previously the sleeper hit bargain at $11.99, has been hiked to $16.49. Earning free months of Game Pass through Rewards was always a clever “loyalty loop” for hardcore players, but you can no longer exchange points for Xbox Game Pass directly.