Meta adds Xbox Game Pass starter to Horizon+ subscription

Meta has announced that it will integrate the Xbox Game Pass starter edition into its Horizon+ subscription service, marking a new step in its expansion of gaming content for Quest virtual reality headsets. The update was revealed on July 21, as Meta Platforms stated it is broadening its offerings to provide Horizon+ subscribers with access to over 50 titles from the Game Pass lineup. This addition complements the existing library of more than 100 virtual reality games already available through the service. The integration of the Xbox Game Pass starter comes as part of Meta’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its relationship with Microsoft’s Xbox ecosystem. By incorporating Game Pass titles, Meta aims to enhance user experience for Quest owners, who can now enjoy a wider range of games, including popular titles such as Fallout 4, Fallout 76, Grounded, DayZ, and Overcooked 2. Subscribers will also receive 10 hours of cloud gaming per month, further enriching their access to gaming content. Horizon+ is a subscription-based service designed specifically for Quest headset users, offering them a curated selection of VR games, regular game releases, and special discounts. With the inclusion of the Game Pass starter, the service becomes even more appealing to gamers seeking variety and value. Additionally, Meta plans to introduce a gamepad emulator in the near future, which will allow users to operate their Quest Touch controllers like traditional Xbox controllers, enhancing gameplay comfort and familiarity. This strategic move aligns with recent developments within both companies. Earlier this month, Microsoft disclosed plans to reduce approximately 3,200 jobs in its gaming division as part of a larger restructuring initiative intended to improve financial performance following sustained investments in the Xbox brand, including the acquisition of Activision Blizzard. Meanwhile, Meta had previously increased the price of its Quest headsets in April due to rising costs for memory chips and other components. The decision to expand Horizon+ with Game Pass titles reflects a growing trend among tech giants to collaborate on gaming platforms, leveraging each other’s strengths to offer consumers more comprehensive experiences. For Meta, this represents an opportunity to solidify its position in the VR gaming market by integrating cross-platform features that appeal to a broader audience. It also underscores the increasing importance of cloud gaming and hybrid control options in modern gaming ecosystems. As Meta prepares to release the gamepad emulator, users can expect improved compatibility and enhanced usability for those accustomed to Xbox-style controls. This feature could potentially attract more Xbox fans to the Meta platform, thereby strengthening the company’s competitive edge in the rapidly evolving gaming industry. The integration of Game Pass titles also suggests that Meta is keen to maintain a steady flow of fresh content for its subscribers, ensuring long-term engagement and satisfaction.