Xbox Game Pass enhances its rewards program with new Quests and changes to its points system, effective January 7th. This update introduces several key improvements, but importantly, access to these new features is restricted to players aged 18 and older.
The core change is the expansion of Quests to PC Game Pass users. Previously exclusive to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, PC players will now also participate in earning points via daily, weekly, and monthly challenges. These include:
- Daily Play: Earn 10 points daily by playing any Game Pass title for at least 15 minutes.
- Weekly Streaks: Playing at least five days a week earns points, with multipliers increasing based on consecutive weeks of participation (2x for two weeks, 3x for three, and 4x for four or more).
- Monthly Packs: Explore the Game Pass catalog by playing four (Monthly 4-Pack) or eight (Monthly 8-Pack) different games (15 minutes each) monthly. The 4-Pack games count towards the 8-Pack.
- PC Weekly Bonus: A 150-point bonus for playing at least 15 minutes for five or more days a week.
The Rewards Hub, used to track and redeem points, will no longer be accessible to users under 18. Microsoft emphasizes its commitment to age-appropriate gaming experiences as the rationale for this age restriction. Players under 18 can still earn rewards through parentally approved purchases from the Microsoft Store.
The updated system simplifies earning rewards with consistent daily, weekly, and monthly opportunities, incentivizing regular gameplay and exploration of the Game Pass library. However, the age restriction significantly impacts younger players' access to these enhanced benefits.
