Smart Savings on Game Pass Subscriptions
British gamers have uncovered effective methods for securing cheaper Game Pass Ultimate codes, with one reader revealing significant savings opportunities. According to recent discussions in the GameCentral inbox, savvy shoppers can find three-month Game Pass Ultimate subscriptions for £31.99 and annual memberships for £122.99 through certain retailers.
Regular contributor Charlie H explained that CDKeys, now operating as Loaded, consistently offers the most competitive prices, with ShopTo also worth monitoring for deals. The current pricing works out to just over £10 per month for the Ultimate package, compared to the standard monthly rate of £12.99 if paying directly through Microsoft.
"The prices do fluctuate though," Charlie noted, revealing that he recently purchased multiple three-month codes for £27.99 each, allowing him to stack subscriptions and extend his coverage from April 2026 until April 2027. This strategy of buying during price dips and redeeming multiple codes provides substantial long-term savings for dedicated Xbox gamers.
GTA 6: The Unseen Risks for Rockstar
While much of the gaming community eagerly anticipates Grand Theft Auto 6's release next Christmas, several readers expressed concerns about the title representing a bigger risk for Rockstar than many realise. The discussion highlights how GTA 5's unprecedented commercial success, having sold nearly 200 million more copies than GTA 4, creates enormous pressure for its successor.
One reader, Coolsbane, pointed out that GTA 5's remarkable longevity stems primarily from GTA Online's popularity. "Obviously GTA 6 is going to have a GTA Online equivalent but as we've seen many times before, there's no way to guarantee a live service title is a hit," they observed. While single-player sales are virtually assured, the success of any online component remains uncertain despite Rockstar's track record.
The timing presents additional challenges for Microsoft, as reader Focus questioned how the company will navigate GTA 6's holiday 2025 release window. With major Xbox exclusives like Fable, Gears Of War: E-Day, Halo: Campaign Evolved, and Forza Horizon 6 potentially scheduled for the same period, Microsoft faces difficult decisions about whether to compete directly with Rockstar's behemoth or adjust their release strategy.
Nintendo's Next Move: Zelda Remake Predictions
The gaming community remains divided about Nintendo's remake strategy, with several readers speculating about which classic Zelda title might receive the modern treatment next. Contrary to popular demand for an Ocarina of Time remake, reader Carbon suggested that A Link To The Past represents a more likely candidate for Nintendo's attention.
"I feel the more people talk about a Zelda: Ocarina Of Time remake the less likely Nintendo is to do it," Carbon commented, noting Nintendo's unpredictable nature when it comes to fan expectations. They expressed hope that any A Link To The Past remake would feature a different art style than the recent Link's Awakening and Echoes of Wisdom releases, which some fans find too basic for such revered classics.
The discussion reflects ongoing tension between Nintendo's cost-conscious development approach and fan expectations for lavish recreations of beloved games whose "brilliance is becoming hard to recognise because of their age," as Carbon poignantly observed.
Indie Gems and Overlooked Releases
Amidst the blockbuster discussions, several readers championed smaller titles that have captured their attention. Linejumper expressed particular enthusiasm for Ball x Pit, describing it as their favourite game of the year and praising its clever design, numerous unlockables, and exceptional value at "less than a round of drinks."
Meanwhile, reader David highlighted Night Striker Gear as an overlooked release deserving more attention. Directed by Hiroshi Iuchi of Radiant Silvergun and Ikaruga fame, this follow-up to the 1989 arcade original has impressed despite flying under the radar. David recommended playing it on "the biggest screen you have with the volume pumped up" for the optimal experience.
GameCentral acknowledged missing Night Striker Gear's release but confirmed they'll attempt to review it and other overlooked titles during their annual December catch-up period, inviting further suggestions from their readership.
The ongoing conversation demonstrates the diverse interests within the UK gaming community, from practical money-saving tips to passionate debates about industry trends and personal gaming preferences. Readers can continue the discussion by emailing gamecentral@metro.co.uk with their own insights and experiences.
