Do you need Xbox Game Pass for Final Fantasy XIV?

❘ Published: 2024-02-22T14:33:13

Square Enix

The massively popular MMORPG Final Fantasy XIV is coming to Xbox Series S/X, but will you need to be subscribed to Xbox Game Pass to enjoy the game? Here’s everything you need to know about whether or not you’ll need the service.

After a lot of anticipation, it was finally confirmed last year that the beloved Final Fantasy XIV will be making its way to current-gen Xbox consoles in the Spring of 2024. Before Xbox Series S/X players dive into the expansive MMO, they may want to know if an Xbox Game Pass subscription is required to play the game.

Final Fantasy XIV already requires a paid subscription on PlayStation and PC platforms, but that’s all. The game doesn’t need a PlayStation Plus subscription on Sony machines, but what about the Xbox Series X/S version of the game, which has just started its open beta?

Here’s everything we know about whether or not you’ll need Xbox Game Pass to play Final Fantasy XIV Online when it officially launches.

Does Final Fantasy XIV need Game Pass on Xbox Series X/S?

Yes, Final Fantasy XIV will require an Xbox Game Pass Core or Ultimate subscription on Xbox Series X/S. This comes courtesy of the official Final Fantasy XIV website, which explains the paid structure for the game after it leaves beta.

“The Free Trial version, including the open beta test, will not require an Xbox Game Pass (Core or Ultimate) plan to play. However, the full Xbox Series X|S version will require an Xbox Game Pass (Core or Ultimate) plan to play.”

It should be clarified that this means you need an Xbox Game Pass Core or Ultimate sub to be able to play Final Fantasy XIV along with a separate paid subscription to the game, not that it will be free to subscribers.

This is a surprising choice, as PlayStation Plus isn’t required for the PlayStation versions of the game. Those wishing to visit Eorzea for the first time on Xbox Series X/S will have to double-dip on spending for the game.

Hopefully, exclusive benefits will be available in the Xbox Game Pass version of the game, similar to other online titles. If not, then Microsoft players are getting a worse deal than PlayStation owners.

There’s still time for Microsoft & Square Enix to change their minds regarding this choice. If not, then it may impact Final Fantasy XIV’s chance to win an audience on Xbox Series X/S.

So, that’s everything you need to know about playing FFXIV on Xbox Series X/S. If you’re looking for more FFXIV content, check out some of our guides below: