Technologies
Best Prepaid Phone Plans for 2025
Is the cost of an unlimited phone plan more than you need? A prepaid plan with fixed costs could be a better choice.
Our Experts
The big carriers offer phone plans with unlimited data, perks — and higher costs. But some people just need a fixed amount of data, or they want to avoid the long-term commitments that traditional postpaid plans carry. A prepaid plan from carriers like Mint Mobile or US Mobile could be a better fit.
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What is the best prepaid phone plan?
We field this question a lot and it would be great to point to one prepaid plan and say, «Get this one.» But as you’ve no doubt discovered, phone plans involve many factors. Which major cellular network — AT&T, T-Mobile or Verizon, which together cover nearly all of the US — is strongest in your area? Do you need unlimited data? How many people will be on your plan? That said, we have some biases: We prefer unlimited plans to those that meter wireless data by the gigabyte, but we rarely go for those with the most features. So, for example, check out US Mobile Unlimited Flex for a single line and Google Fi Wireless Unlimited Standard for multiple lines. Those are good places to start and as you read through the rest of our picks you’ll hopefully narrow in on the features and prices that best suit your needs.
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Best unlimited prepaid plans for a single line
Pros
- Runs on Verizon’s network for «Warp» service, AT&T’s for its «Dark Star» or T-Mobile’s for «Light Speed»
- 10GB high-speed data, then unlimited at slower speed
- Taxes and fees are included in the sticker price
- 5GB of hotspot data
Cons
- Limited times you can switch networks free
- The Multi-Network add-on is available only in the Unlimited Premium plan
- Phone data slows to 1Mbps after high-speed data is used up
- Cheapest rate requires annual purchase
With the three major carriers in the US, you’re using their infrastructure, and if there aren’t any high-speed towers in your area, you’re out of luck. By contrast, US Mobile calls itself a Super Carrier because, without a network of its own, it rides those three networks. They’re given special names — no doubt to avoid advertising for the competition — and they break down like this: Dark Star is AT&T, Warp is Verizon and Light Speed is T-Mobile.
That sounds convoluted but it means you can switch to a better network for your area if needed without transitioning to an entirely new carrier. You still need to choose one but you get two free network transfers and then pay $2 per transfer if you want to switch again after that — it’s a good way to see which one works best in your area.
OK, to be fair, it can get more convoluted, depending on the network. Dark Star data speeds are at a reduced priority (dubbed QCI 9) in times of network congestion; for an additional $12 a month you can bump that up to a higher priority (QCI 8). With the Warp level, data speeds are at QCI 9 as of Aug. 18, 2025, with the ability to pay more for a QCI-8 add-on; plans in place before then are grandfathered at the QCI 8 speed. The Light Speed level is even higher priority at QCI 7.
The Unlimited Flex plan gives you 10GB of high-speed data, then unlimited at 1Mbps, for just $17.50 a month if you purchase an annual plan (otherwise it’s $25 a month). Hotspot data is 5GB and then unlimited but throttled to 8Mbps and then 600Kbps if you use more than 200GB within a month. International calls and texts from inside the US are included, but if you’re traveling you’ll need to buy add-on roaming packages costing either $15 (1GB, 150 minutes, 150 texts) or $30 (5GB, 500 minutes, 500 texts).
Why we like it
It’s an inexpensive plan with taxes and fees rolled into the price, plus you get the ability to surf among the major carrier networks to find the one that works best for your area.
Who it’s best for
Someone looking for a simple phone line who doesn’t expect to use much data.
Who shouldn’t get it
If you’re frequently away from Wi-Fi, that data could go by in a hurry. It’s also not a great option if you need consistently high speeds or you don’t want the complexity of choosing one of the three networks.
Customer service options
• Online: US Mobile
• Phone: 878-205-0088
• Store: n/a
• App: US Mobile iOS, Android
Pros
- Runs on Verizon’s network
- Unlimited hotspot data
- Unlimited talk and text to Mexico and Canada
- Taxes and fees are factored into the sticker price
Cons
- Best pricing requires a full year commitment and limited to new customers
- No access to fastest 5G Ultra Wideband network
- Cheapest rate requires promo code and multi-month commitment
- No phone support, although the company touts 24/7 access to «human assistance» via chat
If Verizon’s network is strongest in your area, Visible by Verizon’s single-named Visible plan is a competitive option at $25 a month when paying monthly. You can cut that down to almost $22 by prepaying for an entire year at $275, but even that turns out to not be the best option. When you sign up for 26 months on the monthly plan as a new member, use code SWITCH26 at checkout to knock the price down to $19 a month. You need to stick with Visible for the full consecutive 26 months without switching plans to keep that rate or else it goes back to $25 (which is still cheaper than many competitors). (Visible swaps their discount codes on a regular basis, so check the site for the latest deals.)
For that price you get unlimited talk, text and data on Verizon’s 4G LTE and 5G networks but not at the fastest 5G Ultra Wideband speeds even if your phone supports it. Hotspot data is also unlimited but capped at 5Mbps speeds. Calls and texts to Mexico and Canada while you’re in the US are unlimited, too; if you’re traveling, Visible’s Global Pass costs $5 a day in Mexico, Canada, Puerto Rico and US Virgin Islands, or $10 a day for 2GB of data in more than 140 countries.
Why we like it
Unlimited data, even if it’s not at the highest 5G and hotspot speeds, is still worthwhile for the price.
Who it’s best for
Customers in strong Verizon coverage areas who want to save money.
Customer service options
• Online: Visible Help Center
• Phone: n/a, live chat only
• Store: n/a
• App: Visible iOS, Android
Best prepaid data plan for multiple lines and families
Pros
- Runs on T-Mobile’s network
- Can add Samsung or Google cellular smartwatches at no extra charge
- Includes hotspot data
- Free international calls to Mexico and Canada
Cons
- High-speed hotspot data counts toward monthly high-speed data use
- Taxes and fees not included
- No international data
Looking at the Google Fi Wireless plans, the Ultimate Essentials stands out for a group of four lines by coming in at $90, or just $23 per person for a month (plus taxes and fees). That’s the inexpensive pick but not necessarily the value choice. For just $10 more at $100 for four lines, the Unlimited Standard plan includes 50GB of high-speed data, 25GB of hotspot tethering and free calls to Canada and Mexico for each line. On compatible phones, you get 5G access for unlimited talk and text, which is largely carried by T-Mobile’s network.
Not so great is the drop-off of data speeds after you’ve exhausted the 50GB of high-speed data — then the service crawls at 256kbps for the rest of the month. You can pony up $10 per gigabyte to get back into the fast lane if needed but that can get expensive real quick. Also, that 25GB of high-speed hotspot data counts toward the 50GB of fast data.
Why we like it
Compared with similarly priced prepaid plans by Metro or Cricket, Google Fi Wireless comes out ahead at the same price with its 50GB of high-speed data and hotspot feature.
Who it’s best for
It’s an affordable plan for a family with average data needs.
Who shouldn’t get it
People who frequently stream video or primarily use cellular data instead of local Wi-Fi.
Customer service options
• Online: Google Fi Wireless
• Phone: 844-825-5234
• Store: n/a
• App: Google Fi
Best prepaid plans for perks
Pros
- Runs on T-Mobile’s network
- 25GB hotspot data
- Amazon Prime included
- 5-year price guarantee
- Taxes and fees are factored into the sticker price
Cons
- No streaming video option other than Prime Video included with the Amazon Prime membership
The Metro $60/mo with AutoPay prepaid plan is the most expensive unlimited option from the T-Mobile owned service, but it’s also where most of the perks live. If you’re in an area where T-Mobile offers the best signal, this plan has a lot to tempt you. (Metro abandoned its previous naming scheme in favor of titling its plans based on the cost; this one used to be called the Metro Flex Unlimited Plus.)
First, the basics: For $60 a month for a single line or $140 a month for four lines (with a fourth line free deal), you get unlimited 5G data, unlimited talk and text and 25GB of hotspot data. That 5G data will be throttled if you burn through more than 70GB a month, but you won’t be capped. The plan also has T-Mobile’s 5-year price guarantee that covers talk, text and data.
In terms of perks, we chose to highlight this plan for a couple of reasons. It includes Amazon Prime, typically a $15 a month charge, as well as a 100GB Google One membership (a $2 a month value), along with T-Mobile Tuesdays and the company’s Scam Shield service for filtering unwanted calls and texts. Aside from Amazon Prime video, no other streaming services are bundled in. If you already have a cellular-capable smartwatch or tablet, you can add it for $5 a month.
Granted, these perks appeal to a narrow slice of customers — T-Mobile coverage, Amazon Prime and Google One — but if that fits your needs, it’s a good deal.
Why we like it
Amazon Prime is a big addition that can save $180 a year, plus perks like T-Mobile Tuesdays.
Who it’s best for
People in a strong T-Mobile coverage area that also subscribe to Amazon Prime.
Who shouldn’t get it
If you’re in an area where Verizon or AT&T networks give better performance, look for a different plan.
Customer service options
• Online: Metro Support
• Phone: 1-888-8metro8 (863-8768)
• Store: Store locator
• App: Metro app
Pros
- Runs on Verizon’s network
- Unlimited hotspot data
- Disney Plus Premium included
- 5-year price guarantee
- Taxes and fees are factored into the sticker price
Cons
- Capped international roaming data amount
Surprisingly few prepaid plans offer many perks, presumably choosing to streamline options in order to reach the lowest price. If you’re looking for extras like streaming content, and you live in an area where Verizon’s coverage is strongest, look at the Total Wireless 5G Plus Unlimited prepaid plan.
This plan is the most expensive of the Total Wireless plans at $60 a month for a single line or $120 a month for four lines. But that’s less expensive than our other prepaid perks pick for four lines, Metro’s $60/mo with AutoPay (which becomes «$140/mo with AutoPay»), and it includes Disney Plus Premium, a $20 a month value. Taxes and fees are also included in the cost of the plan.
The plan includes unlimited 5G data that parent company Verizon says will not be slowed down after a fixed number of gigabytes used. That 5G data is also accessed using the speedier 5G Ultra Wideband if your device supports it. You’ll also get unlimited hotspot data, though at speeds up to 5 Mbps. International calling is free to more than 85 destinations and texting is free to more than 200 locations as long as you’re residing in the US, Puerto Rico or US Virgin Islands. When visiting Canada, Mexico or 15 other countries, data roaming is possible up to a 10GB roaming allotment.
Why we like it
It’s less expensive than our prepaid perks runner-up, doesn’t throttle data, has unlimited hotspot data and includes Disney Plus.
Who it’s best for
People in strong Verizon coverage areas who want to bundle Disney Plus.
Who shouldn’t get it
Someone in an area not well served by Verizon’s network, or if you don’t care about the Disney Plus addition.
Customer service options
• Online: Total Wireless Support
• Phone: 1-866-663-3633 or text 611611
• Store: Store locator
• App: Total Wireless app
Best prepaid plan without data
Pros
- Runs on T-Mobile’s network
- Free talk and text
Cons
- Need to use the TextNow app to call and text
- App has ads
- Minimal cellular data
- No access to services like WhatsApp, iMessage or FaceTime over cellular
- Adding data is pricey
Today’s phones are so data-consuming that it’s hard to imagine not using any data at all. And yet that’s pretty close to what you’d be using with TextNow’s Essential Data plan, which includes just 350MB (yes, megabytes) and costs… nothing. Well, there’s a $5 fee for purchasing a SIM, but otherwise the service is free.
The catch is that calls and texts happen inside the TextNow app, not in the phone, messages, WhatsApp or other communications app that uses data. And because you’re locked into the app, you’re also served ads. TextNow uses T-Mobile’s network for wireless access. If you do need data access, TextNow has «passes» you can purchase, like a 99-cent hour pass that includes 300MB of high-speed data and then unlimited at 2G speeds, or a $5 day pass with 2GB of high-speed data and then unlimited 2G data. There’s also a $40 month pass with 10GB of high-speed data and no ads, but if you’re spending that much, it makes sense to go with a cheaper plan from another provider with more options.
Why we like it
Aside from the fee for purchasing a SIM and putting up with ads, it’s hard to beat free.
Who it’s best for
Someone who rarely needs to use a phone, or has a basic phone as a backup or burner.
Who shouldn’t get it
In reality, most people will avoid this plan because of how we use phones these days centers around data.
Customer service options
• Online: TextNow Help
• Phone: n/a
• Store: n/a
• App: TextNow app
Best prepaid plans with fixed data
Pros
- Runs on T-Mobile’s network
- More data than some comparably priced plans from other prepaid rivals
- Free calling to Canada, Mexico and the UK
Cons
- Best pricing often requires a full year commitment or is limited to new customers
- Hotspot data comes out of monthly allotment
Despite the fact that we think most everyone can benefit from having an unlimited data plan, sometimes that’s just too much data and too much expense. When you aren’t streaming movies or checking social media frequently (away from Wi-Fi), a limited amount of data on a plan can be just the right amount.
Mint Mobile’s 15GB Plan costs as little as $20 a month when you pay up front for a year or take advantage of a three-month new customer offer. For that price you get unlimited talk and text using T-Mobile’s 5G/4G LTE network and the 15GB of high-speed data (then slower unlimited data if you blow past that allotment). It also includes free calling to Canada, Mexico and the UK, as well as 10GB of hotspot data (which comes out of the 15GB total).
Why we like it
With T-Mobile’s network as the backbone, Mint Mobile’s plan offers many of the same features as the larger carrier, but at a reduced, affordable prepaid scale.
Who it’s best for
People who want the features of most mobile plans but won’t use much data.
Who shouldn’t get it
Someone who obsesses over data use or is concerned about hitting the 15GB limit.
Customer service options
• Online: Mint Mobile Help Center
• Phone: 800-683-7392
• Store: n/a
• App: Mint Mobile
Pros
- Cheap rate for 2GB of data
- Runs on Verizon’s network for «Warp» service, AT&T’s for its «Dark Star» or T-Mobile’s for «Light Speed»
- 2GB high-speed data
- Taxes and fees are included in the sticker price
Cons
- Limited times you can switch networks free
- International calling is a separate add-on
- Cheapest rate requires annual purchase
It’s easy to get wrapped up in unlimited data plans and streaming perks, but some people just need a way to connect to their friends and family with a little bit of data to get them through the month. If you’re usually connected to Wi-Fi or need a phone line just for emergencies, the US Mobile Light Plan is the most affordable option.
The plan includes unlimited talk and text and 2GB of premium data. If you prepay for a year, it costs $96, including taxes and fees, which breaks down to $8 a month. (You can choose to pay monthly at $10 a month.) Did 2GB turn out to be too little data? You can add a Top Up for $2 per gigabyte.
US Mobile’s approach is to use all three major carriers’ infrastructure, and you choose which one is the best in your area. They’re given special names – no doubt to avoid advertising for the competition – and they break down like this: Dark Star is AT&T, Warp is Verizon and Light Speed is T-Mobile. If you want to switch to another, you can do so up to two times free and then after that with a $2 Network Transfer charge.
Why we like it
The cost is low and you can jump onto whichever carrier’s network is strongest in your area.
Who it’s best for
Someone looking for a simple phone line who doesn’t expect to use much data.
Who shouldn’t get it
If you’re frequently away from Wi-Fi, that data could go by in a hurry. It’s also not a great option if you need consistently high speeds, or you don’t want the complexity of choosing one of the three networks.
Customer service options
• Online: US Mobile
• Phone: 878-205-0088
• Store: n/a
• App: US Mobile iOS, Android
Best prepaid plans compared
| Plan | Cost 1 line (AutoPay) | Cost 4 lines (AutoPay) | High-speed data | Hotspot data limit | Price guarantee | Max number of lines | Streaming resolution | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| US Mobile | Unlimited Flex | $17.50 | n/a | 10GB | 5GB | n/a | Unlimited | 480p (SD) |
| Visible | Visible | $19 | n/a | Unlimited | 15GB | n/a | n/a | 480p (SD) |
| Google Fi Wireless | Unlimited Standard | $50 | $100 | 50GB | 25GB | n/a | 6 | 480p (SD) |
| Metro | $60/mo with AutoPay | $60 | $140 | Unlimited | 25GB | 5 years | 4 | 1080p (HD) |
| Total Wireless | 5G Plus Unlimited | $60 | $120 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 5 years | 5 | 480p (SD) |
| TextNow | Essential Data | Free | n/a | 350MB | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a |
| Mint Mobile | 15GB | $20 | n/a | 15GB | 10GB | n/a | n/a | 480p (SD) |
| US Mobile | Light Plan | $8 | n/a | 2GB | n/a | n.a | 1 | 480p (SD) |
Recent updates
Visible runs special offers on its regular Visible plan, so we’ve included the latest offer code. However, the company changes its deals frequently, so be sure to check for the latest one.
Metro changed the names of its plans. Instead of the marketing-heavy «Metro Flex Unlimited Plus» title, the plan is now the more descriptive «Metro $60/mo with AutoPay» — maybe not as interesting, but more straightforward.
We used to recommend Metro’s Heritage plan that was a little cheaper for perks, but that option is now gone.
The Total Wireless 5G Plus Unlimited plan is a new addition to this list.
US Mobile changed the network priority level of its Warp (Verizon) level as of Aug. 18, 2025 to QCI 9 instead of the higher-priority QCI 8. However, anyone on Warp before that date keeps the QCI 8 designation.
Factors to Consider
A wireless carrier saying it offers 5G is like me saying I have a car. Good for me — but what make and model is it? Does it run reliably? Can it actually get up to the top speed on the speedometer or will it sputter when I try to merge onto the freeway? And could I have gotten the same performance if I’d paid less for a model without extras like heated seats and a TruCoat sealant?
As you’re evaluating carriers, keep the following things in mind.
Know your area
Wireless coverage can make or break a plan. If you aren’t getting reliably fast connections, or if calls often drop or aren’t picked up, then you could be paying for more than you’re getting. Fortunately, most areas of the US are blanketed by some type of cellular coverage, so there aren’t as many dead zones as there used to be. (And now satellite service is starting to fill those holes.) The major companies are also putting a lot of money and effort into broadening their coverage.
On the other hand, even in a dense area, one carrier’s network may be stronger than another’s, or signals could be reduced because of interference. So the best approach is to ask friends or family members which services they use and if the quality is acceptable. You can also test-drive services to see how your devices work in your area. (See the FAQ below for more on how reliable coverage maps can be.)
Know your deals and discounts
One other thing to keep in mind: discounts. All the carriers offer additional discounts you could be eligible for, depending on your employer, military status, student status or age. Usually these apply to postpaid plans, not prepaid ones, but it’s worth checking them out.
First responders, military members, veterans, nurses and teachers can get discounts on every major carrier. Verizon has discounts for students, while T-Mobile’s Work perk could knock 15% off the monthly price of an Experience More or Experience Beyond plan, with AT&T offering a similar program for its Unlimited Premium PL plan. AT&T also has a promotion for teachers that offers 25% off its latest unlimited plans.
If you’re 55 or older, you may also be eligible for a discounted plan: T-Mobile offers discounted plans nationwide for as low as $55 a month for two lines, and Verizon and AT&T offer similar options but only for Florida residents.
It’s also worth noting that on their websites, some carriers sometimes advertise different rates geared toward switchers, for example if you bring your own phone (not trade in and finance a new one on an installment plan). Our recommendations reflect the actual rate outside of these very specific promotions.
How we test
Picking a wireless plan and carrier is a very individualized process. What works for you and your family’s needs may be vastly different from what your friends or neighbors are looking for. Even geographically, some areas have better AT&T coverage while others work best on Verizon or T-Mobile. The picks we make are based on more than a decade of covering and evaluating wireless carriers, their offerings and overall performance.
Specifically, we take into account coverage, price/value and perks.
Coverage
Because all three major providers cover most of the country with good 4G LTE or 5G, this is largely a toss-up on a macro level. It’s why we recommend a variety of eSIM options for figuring out what works best for you in your particular location, so you can best decide what’s right for you. Looking at coverage maps on each provider’s website will likely show that you get good coverage even if your experience isn’t full bars or the fastest speeds.
Price/value
Value is factoring in the total experience you might get, such as how much high-speed data you get and what’s included in the sticker price. We also take into account whether a plan includes typical taxes and fees, or whether those are charged separately, inching your monthly bill higher.
Perks
Perks are add-ons beyond the core components of wireless service (talk, text and data). This could range from bundling in or discounting on streaming services to extra hotspot data or the ability to use your phone internationally.
Prepaid phone plan FAQ
Technologies
Artemis II Astronauts Are Using iPhones to Capture Stunning Space Images
After smartphones were cleared by NASA for space missions, the crew members of the Integrity spacecraft are beaming back lots of iPhone photos.
The four astronauts aboard the Integrity spacecraft now headed home from their historic arc around the moon really are like the rest of us: Sometimes they reach for their smartphones to snap photos.
For the Artemis II mission, iPhone 17 Pro Max phones have been used to capture photos inside the capsule of the astronauts pondering the views of Earth and working on mission objectives. (Technically, NASA refers to them as PCDs – personal computing devices.)
Smartphones were cleared for use in space for the first time in February. In a post on X, NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman wrote, «We are giving our crews the tools to capture special moments for their families and share inspiring images and video with the world.»
Early in the mission, Commander Reid Wiseman snapped a pair of photos looking out the window with Earth behind him. Mission specialist Christina Koch and her dynamic curls in zero-gravity also captured a pensive view looking out over the planet. All three were made using the front camera — because wouldn’t you want to grab a selfie if you were in space?
The iPhone 17 Pro’s rear cameras are pulling their own weight during the mission, too. During the live broadcast as the crew approached the moon, Wiseman took a photo of the moon’s surface using the iPhone’s telephoto camera at 8x zoom. He turned the screen toward one of the video cameras mounted inside the spacecraft, creating an image of the moon’s surface alone against the darkness of the unlit cabin, with the iPhone’s signature rounded edges and Dynamic Island cutout at the top.
The main photo workhorses on this trip are a Nikon D5 DSLR and a Nikon Z9. The D5 is a model that has been used on several space excursions, and the Z9 is onboard as an experimental camera.
For NASA missions, every piece of equipment must be tested and certified, which is why the previously-approved D5 has a secure spot. Cameras must be resistent to space environmental factors like radiation, and safe if they’re floating around the capsule. However, the iPhones in space now are off-the-shelf models, according to a report by Jackie Watties of CNN.
The moon flyby was especially photo-intensive, with astronauts switching places several times so that two were always at windows with cameras and relating what they could see with their eyes. This photo of mission specialist and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen taking images using one of the Nikon cameras shows how some windows have camera shrouds attached. The shroud ensures that light from the interior isn’t reflected in the glass.
In a particularly relatable photo, Hansen is also using the front-facing camera of a white iPhone 17 Pro — as a portable mirror while he shaves. As the (modified) saying goes, the best selfie screen is the one you have with you.
The iPhone 17 Pro isn’t the first Apple product to go into space. Crew members have taken iPods, iPads and AirPods on missions since the Space Shuttle era. The Mac Portable even went up on a shuttle (and revealed that its trackball in zero-G isn’t the best option).
An Apple representative didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.
Technologies
Hades 2, the Award-Winning Sequel, Joins Xbox Game Pass in April
Game Pass Premium subscribers are getting a handful of games, including the remastered Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion.
Hades 2 was selected as one of CNET’s best games of 2025, but don’t take our word for it. The game won Best Action Game at the 2025 Game of the Year awards, Best Game on Steam Deck at the Steam Awards and a bevy of other accolades after its release. If you haven’t had the chance to play this stellar sequel yet, you can on Xbox Game Pass starting on April 14.
Xbox Game Pass, a CNET Editors’ Choice award pick, offers a wide selection of games you can play on your Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One and PC or mobile device for as little as $10 a month. And with a subscription to the higher-tiered Game Pass Ultimate ($30 a month), you can access hundreds of games, including Day One releases, each month.
Here are the games Microsoft plans to bring to Game Pass in April. You can also check out other games the company added to the service in March, including Cyberpunk 2077.
DayZ
Coming to PC on April 8, joining Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, Game Pass Essential and PC Game Pass.
This online multiplayer survival game is coming to PC. An unknown virus has turned the population of the post-Soviet country of Chernarus into zombies, and you’re one of the last few survivors. You’ll have to scavenge for supplies among the ruins while fighting off zombies and other survivors alike. But how far will you go to save yourself?
Endless Legend 2 (Game preview)
New to Game Pass Premium on April 8. Previously on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass.
Lead your faction to build a great empire that can crush your enemies in this fantasy strategy game. You can play as warriors descended from the stars, cursed knights or hive-minded beasts, but each faction has its strengths, weaknesses and unique philosophies that can influence the rest of the game. And fending off enemies is just one challenge in this game. You’ll have to adapt to the changing environment as well. Will you expand as the tides reveal new treasures, or focus on improving your defenses?
FBC: Firebreak
New to Game Pass Premium on April 8. Previously on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass.
The Federal Bureau of Control is under attack from otherworldly forces, and it’s up to you and your versatile unit to restore order. You’ll fight chaotic entities, leeches and a monster made of sticky notes using guns, grenades and other supernatural weapons. You can play this first-person shooter game on your own or take on the chaos of the FBC with friends in three-player co-op.
Planet Coaster 2
Coming to Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium and PC Game Pass on April 9.
This might not be the classic RollerCoaster Tycoon, but it’s close enough. You’ll build your own roller coasters and water slides, manage your amusement park and create unforgettable experiences for your guests. It’s unclear if you can launch your coasters off the rails into waiting crowds. Will report back later.
Tiny Bookshop
Coming to Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium and PC Game Pass on April 10.
I have long dreamed of opening my own bookshop, and until I come into a lot of money, this game will have to do. You can stock your bookshop with different genres and items for sale, set up shop in scenic locations — like near a lighthouse — and get to know the locals in this cozy management game.
Football Manager 26 (PC and console)
New to Game Pass Premium on April 13. Previously on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass.
Get ready for a more immersive matchday experience in the latest installment of the Football Manager franchise. You can build a star-studded squad with new transfer tools, and this entry features official Premier League licenses and women’s football for the first time in the series’ history.
Hades 2
Coming to Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium and PC Game Pass on April 14.
Following the events of the original game, the Titan of Time Chronos has returned and laid waste to the Underworld and Earth. As the immortal princess Melinoe, you’re tasked with stopping the titan and restoring the mythic world. Each time you venture out, you’ll learn more about the world around you and discover the true cause of all the destruction and pain.
Replaced
Coming to Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass on Day One on April 14.
Can AI ever be human? I’m not talking about ChatGPT or Gemini, but REACH, an AI trapped in a human’s body, in this narrative platformer game. You’ll explore an alternate 1980s America that’s scarred from nuclear catastrophe as you try to uncover the secrets of the Phoenix Corps, the same group that created you. It’s a cyberpunk Frankenstein with plenty of exploration and fluid action sequences.
The Thaumaturge
Coming to Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium and PC Game Pass on April 14.
By definition, a thaumaturge is a miracle worker or magician, and in this roleplaying game, you’re a master of mystical arts that allow you to peer into the hearts and minds of others. After the death of your father, you returned to an alternate 1900s Warsaw to investigate his death, fight supernatural forces and uncover the truth.
The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered
New to Game Pass Premium on April 16. Previously on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass.
A fanatical cult is trying to open gates to the demonic realm of Oblivion, and it’s up to you to stop them and seal the gates forever in the remastered version of this open-world RPG. You can rediscover the world of Cyrodiil (or experience it for the first time in updated glory), encounter unique characters and save the land.
EA Sports NHL 26
Coming to Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass on April 16.
As the NHL regular season winds down, the playoffs and the fight for the Stanley Cup are heating up. And with the latest installment in this EA Sports franchise, you can ensure your favorite team brings home the cup. This entry in the series introduces new gameplay mechanics, such as Ice Q 2.0 and a goalie crease control system, to add additional challenges. So if you want to see the Florida Panthers win the cup back-to-back, or you want to make absolutely sure that never happens, this game is for you.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare
Coming to Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium and PC Game Pass on April 17.
Modern Warfare redefined the Call of Duty series when it was released almost 20 years ago, and the rebooted version of the classic game drops you right back to where it started. You’ll control CIA and SAS special forces as they attempt to stop rebels from the fictional Republic of Urzikstan. And if the campaign’s not enough, you can hone your skills in the immersive, fast-paced multiplayer.
Little Rocket Lab
New to Game Pass Premium on April 21. Previously on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass.
Your family’s dream project has been to build a rocket, and you’re going to fulfill their dream in this cozy, machine-building RPG. But first, you have to build clever contraptions, convert local resources and become the heart of your community before you can complete your ultimate rocket-building task.
Sopa: Tale of the Stolen Potato
New to Game Pass Premium on April 21. Previously on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass.
Miho goes to the pantry to grab a potato for his grandmother’s soup when he lands in a fantastical land. Now he has to find his way back home by following in the footsteps of a mysterious traveler from long ago. You’ll meet quirky characters, gather exotic ingredients and take in vibrant environments in this world of magical realism inspired by Latin America.
Vampire Crawlers
Coming to Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass on Day One on April 21.
From the creators of the indie darling Vampire Survivors comes this turn-based, deck-building, roguelite game. You’ll explore dungeons that might look familiar to Vampire Survivors veterans, fight monsters and build chaotic, broken decks along the way. So be tactical in your choices or blast away every chance you get!
Kiln
Coming to Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass on Day One on April 23.
Kiln is about creating beautiful pottery filled with artistry and wonder… and smashing it all to pieces in the arena. This online, multiplayer party brawler pits you against others to see which pottery design can withstand the heat and which can dish out a beating.
Two games come to Game Pass Essential subscribers on April 8
Game Pass Essential costs $10 a month and offers access to a relatively small library of games compared to Game Pass Premium and Ultimate. While Microsoft doesn’t regularly add many games to Essential’s library, it’s adding these two on April 8.
Games leaving the service on April 15
While Microsoft is adding the above games to Game Pass, it is also removing five games from the service on April 15, including GTA 5. That means you still have a little time left to complete your main campaign and any sidequests before you’ll have to buy these games separately.
- Ashen
- Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes
- Grand Theft Auto V
- My Little Pony: A Zephyr Heights Mystery
- Terra Invicta (Game Preview)
For more on Xbox, discover other games available on Game Pass now, read our hands-on review of the gaming service and learn which Game Pass plan is right for you.
Technologies
Nintendo Is Offering the Switch 2 for $20 Less When You Buy Super Mario Galaxy 1 and 2
This out-of-this-world deal goes live on April 12 and continues until May 9, giving you plenty of time to secure your bundle.
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie has been out for just over a week, and it has already become a must-see film for fans of the Mario Bros. video games. Nintendo also announced an upcoming deal that makes it easier to take the Super Mario Galaxy home.
Starting on April 12, Mario Bros. fans can get the Nintendo Switch 2 for $20 off with the purchase of a digital or physical Super Mario Galaxy 1 and 2 bundle. Once live, this deal lasts until May 9 and brings the Nintendo Switch 2 to $430, down from its usual price of $450.
The deal will be available at select retailers, including Walmart, Amazon, GameStop, Target and Best Buy. Not only does this deal coincide with the film’s release, but it’s also a small way to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Super Mario Bros.
Additionally, Best Buy is currently giving away a free collectible 40th anniversary game case with select Mario game purchases if you’d rather not wait until April 12.
Super Mario Galaxy has been around since 2007, and Super Mario Galaxy 2 has been available since 2010 on Wii. These games are still crowd-pleasers, and this offer makes it possible to enjoy both games on the Nintendo Switch 2 for less.
To better enjoy this deal once it’s available, check out our article on everything you need to know about Nintendo Switch 2 games.
CHEAP GAMING LAPTOP DEALS OF THE WEEK
Why this deal matters
The Nintendo Switch 2 has been praised by fans and gaming experts. Like its handheld gaming counterpart, Super Mario Galaxy 1 and 2 have also remained popular since their releases. If you’ve been looking to buy these games along with the handheld gaming console, then this is one deal to plan for. Keep in mind that it’ll run from April 12 until May 9, so be ready to secure the savings.
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