After years of anticipation, Grand Theft Auto 6 is finally approaching release, but the price tag is significant. The Standard Edition is priced at $80, while the Ultimate Edition, which includes exclusive in-game content like vehicles, weapons, and side activities, costs $100. Despite the steep cost, some Xbox gamers have managed to obtain the title without spending money by leveraging specific Microsoft perks.
Reddit users have posted success stories detailing how they acquired free pre-orders. One approach involves using the Xbox Mastercard, where purchase rewards accumulate points best utilized on Microsoft Store buys, streaming services, and food delivery. However, experts note this strategy is only viable for those already qualified for a new credit card. A more accessible and risk-free alternative is the Microsoft Rewards program, which allows users to earn points through routine digital activities.
To cover the cost of the Ultimate Edition, a player must collect approximately 100,000 points, as 1,000 points equate to roughly $1. While this total may seem unattainable, Microsoft provides various avenues to earn rewards both online and on the console. Although making purchases in the Microsoft Store generates points quickly, it undermines the goal of saving money on the game itself.
For those without a Game Pass subscription, earning points requires more effort. However, subscribers can significantly accelerate their progress through the Xbox mobile app. By navigating to the Rewards tab, users can complete Quests related to playing on PC or console, using the Xbox app, and maintaining weekly play streaks. Game Pass Premium and PC Only subscribers earn double points, while Ultimate subscribers earn quadruple points from these activities.
Beyond gaming, users can accumulate points via the Microsoft Rewards dashboard. Daily tasks such as polls and quizzes offer small point gains, while setting Bing as the default search engine and using its app can generate larger rewards through search multipliers and streak bonuses. As users level up, the point yield from daily activities increases. With consistent effort, gamers could secure a substantial discount or a completely free copy by the November release date.
100k points is a lot of daily quests. I doubt many people will grind this much just to break even on an $80 game.
Double points with Game Pass Ultimate makes this actually viable. I might actually get the free copy before launch!