Elden Ring has captured the imagination of millions, becoming a cultural phenomenon and a defining game of its generation. With its breathtaking world, challenging combat, and deep lore, players everywhere are still flocking to explore the Lands Between.
On the other hand, Xbox Game Pass has set a new standard for gaming subscriptions, offering incredible value with its ever-growing library of top-tier games at a low monthly cost. But here’s the question that many are asking—can you experience Elden Ring through Game Pass?
For those unfamiliar, Xbox Game Pass is a subscription service from Microsoft that provides access to hundreds of games, from blockbuster titles to indie gems, across Xbox consoles, PC, and even cloud gaming. It’s an all-you-can-play buffet for gamers, with new titles being added every month, often on their release day.
In this post, we’ll answer the burning question: Is Elden Ring available on Xbox Game Pass? We’ll explore why the game isn’t currently part of the service, discuss some alternatives, and dive into the benefits that Game Pass offers even without Elden Ring in its library.
Is Elden Ring on Game Pass? Current Status
Let’s get straight to the point—Elden Ring is NOT available on Xbox Game Pass. Despite ongoing fan speculation and hopes, neither the base game nor its highly anticipated DLC, Shadow of the Erdtree, have made their way to the subscription service.
This may come as a disappointment to many, especially given how Game Pass has brought some of the biggest titles straight to subscribers. However, Elden Ring‘ massive success as a best-selling game and FromSoftware general release strategy suggest that it might be quite some time—if ever—before the game lands on Game Pass. In fact, no official announcements or credible reports have confirmed any plans to add Elden Ring to the platform.
According to reputable gaming sources and community discussions, Elden Ring has maintained its premium status across platforms, relying heavily on its high sales rather than joining subscription services like Game Pass.
Why Elden Ring is Not on Game Pass (and Might Never Be)
1. Commercial Success of Elden Ring
One of the main reasons Elden Ring has not made its way to Xbox Game Pass is its overwhelming commercial success. With over 20 million copies sold and a strong, dedicated player base still growing, the game continues to generate substantial revenue through direct sales.
For publishers, releasing a game on a subscription service like Game Pass can diminish potential profits, especially for a title that continues to sell so well at full price. Simply put, there’s little financial incentive to add Elden Ring to Game Pass when it’s still thriving on traditional sales.
2. FromSoftware’s History
FromSoftware, the developer behind Elden Ring, has historically maintained a close relationship with PlayStation. Many of their flagship titles, such as Bloodborne and the Demon’s Souls remake, have been exclusive to PlayStation platforms, reflecting a strong partnership.
This connection to Sony makes it less likely for FromSoftware to prioritize Microsoft’s Game Pass service. Additionally, the developer has shown a consistent reluctance to release its titles on subscription platforms, opting to retain control over individual game sales.
3. No Precedent
Looking at FromSoftware’s portfolio, none of its previous blockbuster titles—whether it’s Dark Souls, Sekiro, or the latest Armored Core 6—have ever appeared on Game Pass. The studio’s avoidance of subscription services sets a precedent that further lowers the chances of Elden Ring making its way to Game Pass. This track record speaks volumes about their approach to game distribution, focusing on premium sales rather than large-scale availability through subscriptions.
4. Speculation and Reality
There has been no shortage of rumors and fan speculation around Elden Ring potentially coming to Game Pass. While these rumors have sparked hope among players, the reality is far less promising. Xbox executives and industry insiders have repeatedly clarified that there are currently no plans to bring Elden Ring to Game Pass. Though the future is unpredictable in the gaming industry, the current stance suggests that Elden Ring is unlikely to join the service anytime soon.
Alternatives: Soulslike Games on Game Pass
If Elden Ring isn’t available on Game Pass, there’s still good news for fans of the genre. The Soulslike genre, inspired by the brutal, rewarding gameplay of FromSoftware’s Dark Souls series, has carved out its own niche in gaming.
Known for their challenging combat, intricate world-building, and tense atmospheres, Soulslike games push players to master their skills and explore richly detailed, often unforgiving environments. Fortunately, Xbox Game Pass offers several excellent alternatives to satisfy your craving for tough-as-nails action.
Here are some top Soulslike games available on Game Pass:
1. Lies of P
Inspired by the classic story of Pinocchio, Lies of P blends familiar Soulslike mechanics with a dark, twisted narrative. Players control a puppet on a quest to become human, battling monstrous foes in a dystopian Belle Époque-inspired city.
The game features a unique “lie” mechanic that influences the storyline, adding a layer of narrative depth to its challenging combat and exploration. Fans of Elden Ring will appreciate the punishing difficulty and dark, intricate world design.
2. Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty
Developed by Team Ninja, Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty transports players to a dark fantasy version of ancient China during the Han Dynasty. With fast-paced combat reminiscent of Sekiro, this game emphasizes skillful swordplay, deflection mechanics, and fluid movement. In contrast to the more deliberate combat of Elden Ring, Wo Long demands precision and speed, while still offering the challenging boss fights and atmospheric environments that Soulslike fans love.
3. Another Crab’s Treasure
For something a bit more quirky yet still rooted in the Soulslike formula, Another Crab’s Treasure offers a unique twist. Players control a crab navigating a colorful underwater world, using discarded objects as makeshift armor. Don’t let the charming aesthetic fool you—this game delivers tough, strategic combat that will appeal to anyone looking for a new spin on the genre.
The creative world-building and humorous take on Soulslike conventions make it a standout option for those seeking something fresh.
4. Lords of the Fallen
Lords of the Fallen is another heavy hitter in the Soulslike space, with a dark fantasy setting and punishing combat mechanics that will feel familiar to Elden Ring fans. Players explore a world overrun by demons and gods, using a variety of weapons and magic to face off against intimidating enemies.
The game emphasizes stamina-based combat, offering a methodical pace akin to Elden Ring. Its expansive world and rewarding progression system make it a strong contender for anyone looking to scratch that Soulslike itch.
With these alternatives on Game Pass, players who crave the intensity and immersion of Elden Ring can still dive into similarly challenging experiences, each with its own unique twist on the Soulslike genre.
The Value of Xbox Game Pass (Even Without Elden Ring)
While Elden Ring may not be on Xbox Game Pass, that doesn’t mean the service is lacking in value. Xbox Game Pass remains one of the most compelling subscription services for gamers, offering a wide variety of benefits that go beyond any single game.
1. Expansive Game Library
Xbox Game Pass boasts an impressive library of hundreds of games, spanning nearly every genre imaginable. Whether you’re into action-packed shooters, sprawling RPGs, thought-provoking indies, or co-op adventures, there’s something for everyone. With titles from iconic franchises like Halo, Forza, and Gears of War, as well as hidden gems and indie darlings, Game Pass delivers a diverse gaming experience that keeps players engaged.
2. Day-One Releases
One of the most enticing features of Game Pass is access to new games the day they launch. Xbox has committed to bringing many of its first-party titles to Game Pass on release day, including highly anticipated upcoming titles like Starfield and Fable. This means that Game Pass subscribers can enjoy brand-new, big-budget games without having to shell out for each individual title—a massive advantage for players eager to play the latest hits.
3. Cloud Gaming
With Game Pass Ultimate, cloud gaming allows players to stream games directly to their devices without needing a console or PC. Whether you’re on your phone, tablet, or low-powered laptop, you can access the Game Pass library on the go. This flexibility allows players to jump into their favorite games anytime, anywhere, providing a seamless gaming experience across multiple platforms.
4. Cost Savings
Perhaps the most notable benefit of Xbox Game Pass is the cost savings it offers. Instead of purchasing each game individually—many of which can cost $60 or more—subscribers pay a monthly fee for access to hundreds of games. For gamers who like to try different genres or frequently play new releases, this subscription model can save a significant amount of money over time, especially with the inclusion of day-one releases.
5. Game Pass Tiers
Xbox Game Pass offers multiple tiers to suit different types of players:
- Game Pass for Console: Access to the Game Pass library on Xbox consoles.
- PC Game Pass: A separate library curated for PC gamers.
- Game Pass Ultimate: The premium tier, offering access to both the console and PC libraries, cloud gaming, and Xbox Live Gold for online multiplayer.
Each tier provides excellent value depending on how you prefer to play, making Game Pass a flexible and cost-effective option for a wide range of gamers.
Even without Elden Ring, Xbox Game Pass stands as one of the best deals in gaming, offering a vast selection of titles, day-one access to new releases, and versatile ways to play—all at a fraction of the cost of buying games outright.
FAQs Is Elden Ring on Game Pass?
Is Elden Ring available on Xbox Game Pass?
No, Elden Ring is currently not available on Xbox Game Pass. Despite its popularity and high demand, neither the base game nor its DLC (Shadow of the Erdtree) is part of the Game Pass library.
Why isn’t Elden Ring on Xbox Game Pass?
Elden Ring has seen immense commercial success with over 20 million copies sold, making it less likely to be included on a subscription service like Game Pass. FromSoftware, the game’s developer, also has a history of not releasing its major titles on such platforms.
Will Elden Ring be added to Xbox Game Pass in the future?
There are currently no official announcements about Elden Ring joining Xbox Game Pass. While speculation exists, the game’s strong sales and FromSoftware’s release strategy make it unlikely in the near future.
Are there similar games to Elden Ring on Xbox Game Pass?
Yes, several Soulslike games are available on Xbox Game Pass, such as Lies of P, Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty, Lords of the Fallen, and Another Crab’s Treasure. These games offer similar challenging combat and atmospheric worlds.
Can I play Elden Ring via Xbox Cloud Gaming?
No, Elden Ring is not available on Xbox Cloud Gaming. Only games that are part of Xbox Game Pass can be played through the cloud service, and since Elden Ring is not on Game Pass, it cannot be streamed.
Conclusion
While Elden Ring is not available on Xbox Game Pass—and likely won’t be anytime soon—there are still plenty of excellent alternatives for fans of the Soulslike genre. Games like Lies of P, Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty, Another Crab’s Treasure, and Lords of the Fallen offer challenging combat and immersive worlds that will satisfy even the most hardcore players.
Even without Elden Ring, Xbox Game Pass remains a fantastic value with its vast game library, day-one releases, and flexible gaming options. So dive into the diverse offerings of Game Pass, and who knows? You might discover a new favorite.
Feel free to share your experiences with these Soulslike games or let us know your Game Pass recommendations in the comments below!
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