Troubleshooting Xbox Game Pass not working

Xbox Game Pass offers gamers a vast library of games to enjoy, but occasionally, users may encounter issues where the Game Pass service is not working as expected. This article aims to address common reasons why Xbox Game Pass may not be functioning properly and provide effective solutions to resolve the issues. By following the troubleshooting methods outlined below, users can regain access to their Game Pass and enjoy uninterrupted gaming experiences.

Why is Xbox Game Pass not working?

Before diving into the solutions, it’s crucial to understand the potential reasons behind Xbox Game Pass not working. Here are some common issues that may cause the problem:

1. Problem with your Microsoft account: Issues with your Microsoft account, such as incorrect login credentials or account-related errors, can prevent Game Pass from functioning correctly.
2. Server outage: Sometimes, Xbox Game Pass may not work due to temporary server outages or maintenance on Microsoft’s end. This can result in an inability to access or play games.
3. The Xbox Game Pass membership has lapsed: If your Game Pass subscription has expired or is not active, you won’t be able to access the games offered through the service. This can occur if the membership was not renewed or if there are payment-related issues.
4. Poor internet connection: A stable and reliable internet connection is crucial for accessing and using Xbox Game Pass. If your internet connection is weak or unstable, it may hinder the proper functioning of the service.
5. Invalid date and time: Incorrect date and time settings on your device can cause synchronization issues with Xbox Game Pass, leading to disruptions in accessing and playing games.
6. Obsolete Windows: Using an outdated version of the Windows operating system can create compatibility issues with Xbox Game Pass and prevent it from working correctly.
7. Lacking offline permissions: If you haven’t granted offline permissions to the games in your Game Pass library, you may face difficulties playing them without an internet connection.

Fix: Xbox Game Pass not working

Method 1: Examine the Xbox Servers

Before troubleshooting any potential issues on your end, it is crucial to verify the status of the Xbox servers. Checking the server status helps determine if there are any ongoing server issues or maintenance activities that could be causing problems with Xbox Game Pass. Here’s how you can examine the Xbox servers:

1. Visit the Xbox Support website: Go to the official Xbox Support website (www.support.xbox.com) using a web browser on your computer or mobile device.
2. Check server status: Look for a dedicated section on the Xbox Support website that provides the server status information. It may be labeled as “Server Status,” “Service Status,” or similar. Click on that section to access the server status page.
3. Use official Xbox social media accounts: Alternatively, you can also check the official Xbox social media accounts, such as Twitter (@XboxSupport), for real-time updates on server status. Xbox Support often posts announcements and notifications about any ongoing server issues or maintenance activities.
4. Review server status indicators: On the server status page or social media accounts, you will typically find a list of Xbox services, including Xbox Game Pass. The status indicators may include “Normal,” “Limited,” “Outage,” or other relevant terms. Look for any specific notifications or warnings related to Game Pass.
5. Wait for server issues to be resolved: If there is a server problem or outage, it is recommended to be patient and wait for the issue to be resolved. In most cases, server issues are temporary and will be addressed by the Xbox team as quickly as possible. Keep checking the server status page or social media accounts for updates on the progress of the resolution.

By examining the Xbox servers and staying informed about any ongoing server issues, you can determine if the problem with Xbox Game Pass not working is related to server-side factors. If the server status indicates an outage or ongoing maintenance, it’s best to wait until the issue is resolved before proceeding with any further troubleshooting on your end.

Method 2: Inspect your Microsoft Account

When experiencing issues with Xbox Game Pass, it’s crucial to inspect your Microsoft account to ensure there are no issues with your login credentials or account status. Here’s a more detailed explanation of the steps involved:

1. Verify login credentials: Double-check that you are using the correct username and password for your Microsoft account. Sometimes, simple errors such as typos or incorrect capitalization can prevent you from accessing Xbox Game Pass. Ensure that you enter your credentials accurately.
2. Reset your password: If you’re unsure about your password or suspect that it may be incorrect, consider resetting it. Visit the Microsoft account recovery page (account.live.com/password/reset) and follow the instructions provided. You may be asked to verify your identity through an alternate email address or phone number associated with your account. Resetting your password can help regain access to your account if there were any authentication issues.
3. Verify account status: Ensure that your Microsoft account is in good standing. If there are any outstanding issues with your account, such as a suspended or blocked status, it may affect your access to Xbox Game Pass. Visit the Microsoft account management page (account.microsoft.com) and review your account details to ensure there are no account-related restrictions.
4. Check subscription status: Confirm that your Xbox Game Pass subscription is active and up to date. If your subscription has expired or payment for the renewal was unsuccessful, it can result in limited access to Game Pass games. Go to the Xbox Game Pass section on the official Xbox website or open the Xbox app, sign in with your Microsoft account, and verify the status of your subscription.
5. Contact Microsoft support if necessary: If you’ve gone through the above steps and are still unable to resolve the issue with your Microsoft account, it’s advisable to contact Microsoft support for further assistance. They can help troubleshoot any account-related issues or provide guidance specific to your account and subscription status.

By thoroughly inspecting your Microsoft account, ensuring the accuracy of your login credentials, resetting your password if needed, and confirming the account and subscription status, you can address any potential issues that may be hindering your access to Xbox Game Pass.

Method 3: Examine the Status of Your Subscription

To troubleshoot issues with Xbox Game Pass not working, it is essential to examine the status of your subscription. Verifying the status of your Xbox Game Pass subscription will help identify any problems related to expiration or payment issues. Here’s a more detailed explanation of the steps involved:

1. Sign in to your Microsoft account: Visit the official Xbox website or open the Xbox app on your console or PC. Sign in using the Microsoft account associated with your Xbox Game Pass subscription.
2. Access your subscription details: Once signed in, navigate to the Xbox Game Pass section. This can usually be found under the “Subscriptions” or “Services” tab. Alternatively, you may find a dedicated section for Xbox Game Pass on the Xbox website or app.
3. Verify subscription status: Look for information that indicates the status of your Xbox Game Pass subscription. It should indicate whether your subscription is active, expired, or if there are any payment-related issues. Ensure that your subscription is currently active.
4. Renew your subscription if expired: If your Xbox Game Pass subscription has expired, you will need to renew it to regain access to Game Pass games. Follow the prompts provided to renew your subscription. This may involve selecting a new subscription plan and updating your payment information if necessary.
5. Update payment information if needed: If there are payment-related issues with your subscription, such as an expired credit card or an invalid payment method, you will need to update your payment information. Select the option to manage your payment settings and provide the necessary details to ensure uninterrupted access to Xbox Game Pass.
6. Contact Xbox support if necessary: If you encounter any difficulties while examining the status of your subscription or if there are unresolved payment-related issues, it’s recommended to contact Xbox support for further assistance. They can provide guidance specific to your subscription status and help resolve any account or payment-related issues.

By thoroughly examining the status of your Xbox Game Pass subscription, ensuring it is active and up to date, renewing your subscription if necessary, and updating your payment information if needed, you can address any subscription-related issues that may be causing problems with Xbox Game Pass.

Method 4: Examine Your Computer’s Time, Date, and Region

To resolve issues with Xbox Game Pass not working, it is crucial to examine and adjust your computer’s time, date, and region settings. Incorrect settings in these areas can disrupt the synchronization of Xbox Game Pass, leading to connectivity and functionality issues. Follow these detailed steps to ensure accurate settings:

1. Open the settings menu: Depending on your operating system, access the settings menu on your computer. This can usually be done by clicking on the “Start” button and selecting the “Settings” option. Alternatively, you can search for “Settings” in the search bar or use the keyboard shortcut (e.g., Windows key + I) to open the settings menu directly.
2. Access the date and time settings: Within the settings menu, locate and click on the “Time & Language” or “Date & Time” option. This will open the settings related to your computer’s time and date.
3. Verify the time and date: Check that the time and date displayed are accurate. If they are incorrect, toggle the “Set time automatically” and “Set time zone automatically” options to enable them. This will allow your computer to synchronize with the correct time and date information from the internet. Alternatively, you can manually adjust the time and date settings by clicking on the appropriate options.
4. Adjust the region settings: In the same settings menu, find the “Region” or “Region & Language” option and click on it. Ensure that the region selected corresponds to your actual location. If the region is incorrect, click on the “Add a language” or “Add a region” option to select the appropriate region.
5. Restart your device: After adjusting the time, date, and region settings, it is important to restart your computer to apply the changes. Save any open work and click on the “Restart” or “Shut down” option to initiate the restart process. Once the device restarts, the new settings should take effect.
6. Launch Xbox Game Pass: After your computer has restarted, launch the Xbox app or the Xbox Game Pass application. Check if the issue with Xbox Game Pass not working has been resolved. If the problem persists, proceed to the next troubleshooting method.

By examining and adjusting your computer’s time, date, and region settings to ensure accuracy, you can eliminate potential synchronization issues that may be interfering with Xbox Game Pass. Restarting your device after making the changes allows the new settings to take effect.

Method 5: Install the Latest Windows Updates

To ensure smooth compatibility and functionality of Xbox Game Pass, it is important to keep your Windows operating system up to date. Installing the latest Windows updates helps to address any known issues, improve system performance, and provide compatibility enhancements for various applications, including Xbox Game Pass. Follow these detailed steps to check for and install the latest Windows updates:

1. Open the Settings menu: Click on the “Start” button located on the taskbar, and then select the “Settings” option. Alternatively, you can use the keyboard shortcut (e.g., Windows key + I) to directly open the Settings menu.
2. Access the Windows Update settings: Within the Settings menu, locate and click on the “Update & Security” option. This will open the Windows Update settings, which allow you to manage and install updates for your operating system.
3. Check for updates: In the Windows Update settings, click on the “Check for updates” button. This will initiate a scan to check if there are any available updates for your Windows operating system.
4. Install updates: If any updates are found, they will be listed on the screen. Click on the “Install” or “Download and install” button to begin the installation process. Depending on the size and number of updates, it may take some time for the installation to complete. Ensure that your device remains connected to a stable internet connection throughout the process.
5. Restart your device if required: After the installation of updates is complete, you may be prompted to restart your device to apply the changes. It is important to save any ongoing work and close all applications before proceeding with the restart.
6. Launch Xbox Game Pass: Once your device has restarted, open the Xbox app or the Xbox Game Pass application to check if the issue has been resolved. The installation of the latest Windows updates should provide improved compatibility and stability for Xbox Game Pass.

Regularly checking for and installing Windows updates is essential for maintaining the performance and security of your operating system. By keeping your Windows system up to date, you ensure that Xbox Game Pass can function optimally and benefit from the latest improvements and bug fixes provided by Microsoft.

Method 6: Resetting the Microsoft Store App

If you’re experiencing issues with Xbox Game Pass, resetting the Microsoft Store app can help resolve potential problems. This method involves using a built-in command to reset the Microsoft Store app, which can clear any temporary data or corrupted settings. Here’s a detailed explanation of how to reset the Microsoft Store app:

1. Press the Windows key + R: On your keyboard, press the Windows key (usually located between the Ctrl and Alt keys) along with the R key simultaneously. This will open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “wsreset.exe” and press Enter: In the Run dialog box, type “wsreset.exe” (without quotes) and press Enter. This command triggers the reset process for the Microsoft Store app.
3. Wait for the process to complete: After executing the command, a blank Command Prompt window may appear briefly, followed by the Microsoft Store app opening automatically. The reset process may take a few moments to complete, depending on your device’s performance.
4. Microsoft Store app will open: Once the reset process is complete, the Microsoft Store app will open automatically. You may see a brief loading screen as the app initializes.
5. Check Xbox Game Pass functionality: Launch the Xbox app and sign in with your Microsoft account associated with Xbox Game Pass. Check if the issues you were experiencing with Xbox Game Pass have been resolved. You should be able to navigate the Microsoft Store app and access Xbox Game Pass without any difficulties.

Resetting the Microsoft Store app can help resolve various issues that may be affecting Xbox Game Pass. It clears the cache, resets app configurations, and removes any temporary files that could be causing conflicts. By performing this reset, you essentially start with a clean slate for the Microsoft Store app, which can improve its functionality and resolve any underlying issues.

If you continue to encounter issues with Xbox Game Pass after resetting the Microsoft Store app, it’s recommended to reach out to Xbox Support or Microsoft customer support for further assistance. They can provide additional troubleshooting steps tailored to your specific situation and help you resolve any persistent issues with Xbox Game Pass.

Method 7: Make Offline Permissions Available

If you want to enjoy playing Game Pass games offline, it is important to ensure that you have granted offline permissions to the games in your library. Here are detailed steps to help you enable offline permissions for Game Pass games:

1. Open the Xbox app: Launch the Xbox app on your device. The Xbox app is available for Windows, iOS, and Android platforms. Make sure you are signed in to your Microsoft account associated with your Xbox Game Pass subscription.
2. Navigate to “My Library”: Within the Xbox app, locate and select the “My Library” tab. This section will display a list of games in your library, including the ones available through Xbox Game Pass.
3. Select the game: Scroll through your game library and find the specific game you want to enable offline play for. Click on the game to access its details and options.
4. Enable offline permissions: Once you have selected the desired game, look for an option or setting related to offline play or permissions. The exact location of this option may vary depending on the platform and version of the Xbox app you are using.
5. Enable offline play: If offline permissions are available for the game, toggle the corresponding switch or check the box to enable offline play. This grants you the ability to play the game without an internet connection for a certain period of time. It is important to note that not all games may have offline play options, as it depends on the specific game’s licensing and developer restrictions.
6. Repeat for other games: If you have multiple games in your library that you wish to play offline, repeat the process outlined above for each game individually. Remember to check for and enable offline permissions for each game separately.

By enabling offline permissions for Game Pass games, you can enjoy playing them even when you don’t have an active internet connection. This is especially useful for situations where you may be traveling or have limited access to the internet. However, please keep in mind that offline play availability may vary depending on the game and its specific licensing agreements.

It’s worth noting that offline permissions may have limitations, such as requiring periodic online check-ins or a valid Xbox Game Pass subscription. Ensure that you have the necessary requirements in place to enjoy uninterrupted offline gameplay.

Method 8: Fix the Xbox App

If you are experiencing issues with the Xbox app, it can impact the performance and functionality of Xbox Game Pass. To resolve any problems with the app, you can try reinstalling it using the following detailed steps:

1. Press the Windows key + X: On your keyboard, press the Windows key (usually located between the Ctrl and Alt keys) along with the X key simultaneously. This will open a menu with various options.
2. Select “Apps and Features”: From the menu that appears, locate and click on the “Apps and Features” option. This will open the Apps & Features settings page.
3. Find the Xbox app: Scroll through the list of installed apps and locate the Xbox app. It should be listed alphabetically. Click on it to select it.
4. Click “Uninstall”: After selecting the Xbox app, a set of options will appear. Look for the “Uninstall” button and click on it. Confirm any prompts that may appear to proceed with the uninstallation process. This will remove the Xbox app from your device.
5. Visit the Microsoft Store: Open your web browser and navigate to the official Microsoft Store website (https://www.microsoft.com/store) or launch the Microsoft Store app directly from your device.
6. Search for the Xbox app: In the Microsoft Store, use the search bar located at the top right corner of the screen to search for the Xbox app. Type “Xbox” and press Enter to initiate the search.
7. Reinstall the Xbox app: From the search results, locate the Xbox app and click on it to access its store page. On the store page, click on the “Install” or “Get” button to start the reinstallation process. Wait for the app to download and install on your device.
8. Restart your device: Once the Xbox app is successfully installed, it is recommended to restart your device. This helps ensure that any lingering issues are resolved and that the app functions properly.
9. Check Xbox Game Pass functionality: After restarting your device, launch the Xbox app and sign in with your Microsoft account associated with Xbox Game Pass. Verify if the Xbox Game Pass is now functioning correctly. You should be able to access and play the games included in your subscription without any issues.

Reinstalling the Xbox app can help resolve various software-related problems that may be affecting the performance of Xbox Game Pass. By following these steps, you ensure a clean installation of the app, potentially resolving any underlying issues that were causing the malfunction.

If the problem persists even after reinstalling the Xbox app, you may want to consider reaching out to Xbox Support or Microsoft customer support for further assistance. They can provide additional troubleshooting steps tailored to your specific situation and help you resolve any persistent issues with Xbox Game Pass.

Method 9: Using PowerShell, Reinstall Gaming Services

If you have exhausted all other troubleshooting methods and are still experiencing issues with Xbox Game Pass, you can try reinstalling gaming services on your device using PowerShell. This method involves using a command in PowerShell to remove and then reinstall the gaming services. Here are the detailed steps:

1. Press the Windows key + X: On your keyboard, press the Windows key (usually located between the Ctrl and Alt keys) along with the X key simultaneously. This will open a menu with various options.
2. Select “Windows PowerShell (Admin)”: From the menu that appears, locate and click on the “Windows PowerShell (Admin)” option. This will open the Windows PowerShell application with administrative privileges.
3. Type the PowerShell command: In the PowerShell window, you’ll see a prompt where you can enter commands. Type the following command:Get-AppxPackage Microsoft.GamingServices | Remove-AppxPackage -AllUsers

   After typing the command, press Enter to execute it. This command will remove the gaming services from your device.

4. Wait for the process to complete: The removal process may take a few moments to complete. You will see some activity and progress information in the PowerShell window. It’s important to let the process finish before proceeding to the next step.
5. Restart your device: After the removal process is complete, it’s recommended to restart your device. Restarting helps ensure that any remnants of the previously installed gaming services are cleared from the system.
6. Check Xbox Game Pass functionality: Once your device has restarted, launch the Xbox app and sign in with your Microsoft account associated with Xbox Game Pass. Check if the Xbox Game Pass is now working properly. You should be able to access and play the games included in your subscription without any issues.

Reinstalling gaming services using PowerShell can help resolve underlying issues with the services that may be causing problems with Xbox Game Pass. By following these steps, you remove the existing gaming services and then reinstall them, potentially fixing any glitches or conflicts that were present.

If you continue to experience issues with Xbox Game Pass after reinstalling the gaming services, it’s recommended to contact Xbox Support or Microsoft customer support for further assistance. They can provide additional troubleshooting steps tailored to your specific situation and help you resolve any persistent issues with Xbox Game Pass.

 

FAQs

Q1: How can I check if there is a server outage for Xbox Game Pass?

A: To check the status of Xbox servers, visit the Xbox Support website or official Xbox social media accounts for updates on any ongoing issues or maintenance activities.

Q2: Can an expired Xbox Game Pass membership cause issues?

A: Yes, if your Game Pass membership has expired, you won’t be able to access the games offered through the service. Ensure that your membership is active and consider renewing it if necessary.

Q3: Why is a stable internet connection important for Xbox Game Pass?

A: Xbox Game Pass requires a stable and reliable internet connection to access and play games. A weak or unstable internet connection can hinder the proper functioning of the service.

Q4: How can I grant offline permissions to Game Pass games?

A: Open the Xbox app, go to the “My Library” section, select the game you want to play offline, and enable offline permissions if available.

Q5: What should I do if none of the troubleshooting methods work?

A: If you’ve tried all the methods mentioned and are still experiencing issues with Xbox Game Pass, it’s recommended to reach out to Xbox Support for further assistance and guidance

Conclusion

Xbox Game Pass offers an incredible gaming experience, but encountering issues where it doesn’t work can be frustrating. By following the troubleshooting methods outlined in this article, users can effectively address common problems that may arise with Xbox Game Pass. Remember to check your Microsoft account, verify the status of your subscription, ensure proper internet connectivity, and adjust system settings as necessary. By implementing these solutions, users can regain access to their Game Pass library and enjoy uninterrupted gaming. If problems persist, it’s recommended to reach out to Xbox Support for further assistance.