Microsoft Rewards to Remove Direct Game Pass Redemptions

One of the most popular perks of Microsoft Rewards is about to change, as the program will soon remove the option to directly redeem points for Xbox Game Pass subscriptions. The rewards program has long been a favorite among Xbox fans, offering incentives such as digital gift cards, memberships, and even Game Pass itself in exchange for points earned through purchases and gameplay. Now, that convenience is being scaled back.

Game Pass: A Subscription Leader

Since its launch in 2017, Xbox Game Pass has been a defining force in the gaming industry. With tiers like Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass, the service set the standard for modern subscription models and inspired competitors like Ubisoft+ and Nintendo Switch Online. For years, Microsoft Rewards users have been able to turn their points directly into Game Pass time, making it one of the most appealing features of the program.

The Change Coming in October

According to a report from PureXbox, starting in October, Microsoft Rewards will no longer allow users to directly redeem points for Game Pass. Instead, players will need to redeem their points for Xbox gift cards and then use those gift cards to purchase a subscription.

While this doesn’t eliminate the option entirely, it does add an extra step — and slightly increases the cost. For example:

• A 1-month Game Pass Core subscription currently costs 9,500 points.
• After the change, players will need two $5 gift cards (10,000 points total) to cover the same subscription.

Part of a Larger Xbox Update

This shift is part of a broader September Xbox update that includes several other changes. The Microsoft Rewards Hub is getting a full visual overhaul, designed to be more user-friendly across all screen sizes, including mobile. Microsoft is also introducing its “Gaming CoPilot” AI assistant to the Xbox Game Bar and launching a mobile client for the Rewards service.

A Bittersweet Update for Fans

Although players can still put rewards points toward Game Pass, the new process is more complicated and slightly more expensive than before. For many fans, the removal of direct redemptions will feel like a step backward, even as Microsoft works to expand and modernize its Rewards ecosystem.