Meta Enhances Horizon Plus with Xbox Game Pass Features

Meta's New Addition to Horizon Plus

Meta has announced a significant upgrade to its Horizon Plus gaming subscription service for Quest VR headsets, now incorporating an Xbox Game Pass starter edition. This new feature grants subscribers the ability to enjoy 10 hours of cloud gaming per month, enhancing the value of the existing service available for $60 annually or $8 each month.

Details of the Xbox Game Pass Integration

The incorporated Xbox Game Pass starter edition provides access to approximately 50 games from Xbox’s Essential Edition. Although the 10-hour gaming allowance may seem limited, it represents a valuable perk for current subscribers. Previously, the equivalent unlimited access to Xbox titles via a standard Game Pass subscription would run about $10 monthly.

According to the company, this move is part of ongoing collaboration with Microsoft, which has previously seen the launch of an Xbox-themed Quest 3S headset and the introduction of a dedicated Xbox cloud gaming app for Quest users.

Updates to Touch Controllers

In addition to the subscription upgrade, Meta is also set to roll out a software update for its Touch controllers. This update will allow the controllers to mimic the necessary inputs for Xbox games. While it will not replicate the gamepad-like layout of Valve’s anticipated Steam Frame controller, it could be a strategic move to maintain competitiveness in the VR gaming market.

Importance of Horizon Plus

Meta’s Horizon Plus subscription service boasts over 100 games, including many of the platform’s most acclaimed titles. The recent enhancements not only provide greater gaming options but also raise speculation regarding the potential launch of a new Quest headset within the coming year, as hinted by Meta’s CTO, Andrew Bosworth.

With these updates, Meta aims to reinforce its position in the gaming landscape, offering compelling options for VR enthusiasts and gamers alike.