Gaming has changed a lot over the years. Gone are the days when you had to buy a single one for a high price and play it endlessly. Now, monthly subscriptions are becoming a popular way to access the same thing, but are they worth it?
Let’s break it down and compare some of the most popular platforms to help you decide. If you’re more of a betting lover, 22Bet, the internet’s most trusted and visited service provider has you covered!
What Are Gaming Subscriptions?
Gaming subscriptions are services that let you pay a monthly fee to access a library of video games, so instead of buying them one by one, you pay a smaller amount each month and get access to dozens, sometimes hundreds, of them. Some of the most well-known services include Xbox Game Pass, PlayStation Plus, and Nintendo Switch Online.
Xbox Game Pass: The Netflix of Gaming
Xbox Game Pass is often called the “Netflix of gaming.” For $10-15 a month, you can access a huge library of options, including hits like Halo, Forza, and Minecraft.
One of the best things about it is that new content from Microsoft-owned studios, like Bethesda, is added on the day they are released.
Pros:
- Huge library.
- New releases available on day one.
- Affordable price.
Cons:
- You don’t own anything. If you cancel, you lose access.
- Not all games stay on the service forever.
PlayStation Plus: More Than Just Online Play
PlayStation Plus started as a way to play online, but it has grown into a full-on subscription service. For about $10-18 a month, depending on the tier, you get access to online multiplayer, free monthly games, and a library of older PlayStation titles, and the higher tiers even include classic PS1 and PS2 options, as well as cloud streaming.
Pros:
- Access to online multiplayer.
- Free games every month.
- Includes classics.
Cons:
- The library isn’t as big as Xbox Game Pass.
- New releases aren’t always included.
Nintendo Switch Online: For the Nostalgic
Nintendo Switch Online is a bit different, so for about $4-8 a month, you get access to online multiplayer for hits like Mario Kart and Splatoon, a library of classic NES and SNES options, and while it isn’t as extensive as the others, it’s perfect for those who love vintage titles.
Pros:
- Affordable price.
- Great for fans of classic Nintendo games.
- Includes online multiplayer.
Cons:
- Limited library compared to other services.
- No access to new or modern updates.
Are Gaming Subscriptions Worth It?
Now that we’ve looked at the options, let’s answer the big question: Are they worth it? The answer depends on:
If you’re a casual user: These can be a great deal, as you get access to a wide variety without spending a lot of money, and if you only play a few hours a week, a subscription lets you try things out without committing to them.
If you’re a retro fan: Nintendo Switch Online might be your best choice, as it’s in a lower price range and gives you access to stuff that’s hard to find elsewhere.
If you’re on a budget: Subscriptions can be a cost-effective strategy, as instead of spending 60$ on a single title, you can pay $10-15 a month and play dozens, but just make sure you’re using the service to get your money’s worth.
Things to Consider
There are a few things to keep in mind before you sign up:
- Internet: Most sites need a good connection, especially if you’re streaming, so make sure your WiFi can handle it.
- Game Availability: Not all titles are available on all platforms, so check the library before you subscribe to make sure there is what you want to play.
- Ownership: Remember, if you cancel, you lose access to the catalogs. If you like owning your copies, these might not be for you.
