Grand Theft Auto 5, one of the most successful video games ever released, is out on Xbox Game Pass. That statement may come as a surprise, given the lack of build-up to the announcement. Grand Theft Auto 5 remains one of the most popular games in the world, so some teasers would be expected, but Microsoft apparently wanted to get this game to Game Pass subscribers as quickly as possible. Xbox Game Pass subscribers on console can download and play Grand Theft Auto 5 right now.
For those curious if there are any limitations involved with playing Grand Theft Auto 5 via Game Pass, there aren't. It's truly the full Grand Theft Auto 5 experience being made available. That includes Grand Theft Auto Online, Grand Theft Auto 5's online multiplayer mode. The only requirement, like if Grand Theft Auto 5 had been purchased normally, is that the Xbox Game Pass subscriber also has an Xbox Live Gold subscription. This is required for all Xbox One multiplayer functions.
The Xbox team is also advertising another function of Xbox Game Pass that will be appealing to Grand Theft Auto Online's new players. All Xbox Game Pass subscribers can get up to 10% off certain GTA5 microtransactions. That includes the Criminal Enterprise Starter Pack, which includes a variety of properties, weapons, and GTA$, or the ever-important Shark Cash Cards. For big spenders, those discounts can save a lot of money over time.
Picking up Grand Theft Auto 5 through Xbox Game Pass is easier than ever. Microsoft is holding a special discount for first-time subscribers right now, offering 3 months of subscription for just $1. That includes the full Xbox Game Pass library, of course, and not just Grand Theft Auto 5. Other games include the Halo: The Master Chief Collection, the Gears of War franchise, The Witcher 3, and much more. The $1 for 3 months offer ends on January 6.
One lingering question hasn't been answered by Microsoft, however. Games can come and go on Xbox Game Pass, often being removed from the service with as little as a month of warning. It's possible that Grand Theft Auto 5 will eventually be removed from Xbox Game Pass down the road. The length of the deal between Microsoft and Take-Two isn't made clear. It's important for subscribers to know that eventually they may have to purchase the game separately in order to continue playing.
Grand Theft Auto 5 is available now on PC, PS4, and Xbox One.