The Xbox Rewards program is undergoing a significant transformation, introducing new features and changes aimed at enhancing user engagement. Starting this week, Game Pass Quests will be available on PC, offering members of the Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass programs unique ways to earn points. The revamped system includes various activities such as daily play, weekly streaks, and monthly game exploration challenges. Additionally, Microsoft has adjusted its age restrictions for earning points through gameplay, now limiting this feature to adults. This update reflects the company's commitment to promoting age-appropriate gaming experiences.

New Features and Changes in the Xbox Rewards Program

In the upcoming days, an exciting change is set to unfold in the world of gaming as the Xbox Rewards program expands its reach to personal computers. Beginning January 7, 2025, PC users who are part of the Game Pass Ultimate or PC Game Pass memberships will gain access to the previously exclusive Game Pass Quests. These quests provide players with opportunities to accumulate points through engaging activities that encourage consistent gameplay and exploration of the vast Game Pass catalog.

To foster a more rewarding experience, participants can earn points by engaging in daily play sessions lasting at least 15 minutes. Weekly streaks reward players for maintaining a consistent gaming schedule, with multipliers increasing based on the length of their streaks. Monthly challenges invite players to diversify their gaming habits by exploring four or eight different games within a month. Moreover, starting January 7, all Rewards members aged 18 and above will receive a PC Weekly Bonus of 150 points for playing for five or more days. Console Weekly Bonuses have also been rebalanced to 150 points, aligning with the updated rewards structure.

This expansion not only enriches the gaming experience but also underscores Microsoft’s dedication to creating positive and age-appropriate gaming environments. By restricting point-earning gameplay activities to adults, the company aims to ensure that younger players engage in suitable content.

In November, Xbox introduced cloud streaming capabilities for select games owned by Game Pass Ultimate members, making them accessible across multiple devices including PCs, phones, tablets, and web browsers. This feature has since been extended to consoles for Xbox Insiders, further broadening the scope of gaming accessibility.

From a journalist's perspective, this development signals a strategic move by Microsoft to enhance user engagement while maintaining responsible gaming practices. The introduction of these new features and the emphasis on age-appropriate content reflect the company's commitment to fostering a healthy gaming community. As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, initiatives like these pave the way for a more inclusive and rewarding experience for all players.