How to Share Xbox Games and Game Pass with Friends

2024/01/24

Key Notes

You can share your Xbox Game Pass with a friend on console and PC with specific steps.
Sharing is limited to two consoles at any given time.
Game Pass subscriptions are primarily designed for sharing between Xbox consoles.

Unlocking the Potential of Game Sharing on Xbox

Sharing your Xbox Game Pass subscription can open up a treasure trove of gaming experiences for you and your friends. This guide will equip you with the necessary steps and advice to ensure that you can enjoy these benefits seamlessly.

Understanding Requirements and Limitations

To share Xbox Game Pass and its games, you must have an active subscription. All plans—whether Core or Ultimate—allow sharing, and you can share from an Xbox One or the latest Xbox Series X|S. However, keep the following limitations in mind:

Number of shares: Sharing is restricted to two consoles: your designated Home Xbox and one additional console.
Digital games: Only digital titles are shareable; physical games are excluded.
Changing Home Xbox: You’re allowed to change your Home Xbox up to five times a year, so choose wisely.
Cloud Gaming access: Only the Game Pass subscriber can access Cloud Gaming—this feature isn’t shareable.
PC sharing: Native sharing of Game Pass subscriptions with PC users is not straightforward, as further explained in the guide.

Sharing your Xbox Game Pass with friends on console is easy; simply designate your primary Xbox as your Home console. Here’s how:

Step 1: Set Your Console as Home Xbox

Go to your console settings, select Personalization, and then click on My Home Xbox.

Step 2: Confirm Home Console Setting

Check the Make this my home Xbox box. Remember, choices here can only be made five times each year, so consider your future needs.

Step 3: Sign In on a Friend’s Console

If you want to share your subscription while visiting a friend’s home, simply sign in to their Xbox with your account. Your Game Pass will be available on that console during your session.

Pro Tip: Consider the security implications of leaving your account signed in on someone else’s console, regardless of your trust in them.

Although sharing Game Pass on PC is not officially supported, there’s a workaround that can help:

Step 4: Launch Xbox App and Sign In

Open the Xbox app on the PC where you want to share your Game Pass and sign in with your friend’s Non-Game Pass account.

Step 5: Change Store Account in Xbox App

Next, go to your profile in the Xbox app, click Settings and select Change my Microsoft Store account. Follow the prompts to sign in with the account that holds the Game Pass subscription.

Step 6: Note Limitations on Games

Be aware that this workaround may not apply to all titles—some, like Minecraft Java, need specific accounts for access on both platforms.

Additional Tips for Game Sharing

Always verify with your friends about usage to avoid any misunderstandings.
Maintain secure passwords to enhance your Xbox account’s security.
Ensure your friends only share their accounts with trusted individuals.

Summary

Sharing Xbox Game Pass can significantly enhance your gaming experience, whether through consoles or via a workaround on PC. By understanding the limitations and following the outlined steps, you can maximize your subscription’s benefits with friends.

Conclusion

By leveraging Xbox Game Pass sharing features, gamers can enjoy a broader range of titles at an affordable price. Take the initiative to share these exciting opportunities with your gaming buddies today!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I share Xbox Game Pass with my PC friends?

While direct sharing on PC isn’t officially allowed, you can use workarounds to allow friends to access your Game Pass on their devices.

Is there a limit to how many times I can change my Home Xbox?

Yes, you can change your Home Xbox up to five times in a calendar year.