Game Pass App Not Working: Solutions

How to Fix Game Pass App Not Working

By Ambar Jimenez | 2025-12-18 22:52:04
There’s nothing quite like settling in for a gaming session, controller in hand, only to be met with a spinning icon, an error code, or an Xbox Game Pass app that simply refuses to cooperate. It’s a modern gaming frustration that can hit anyone, whether you’re on PC, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, or even streaming via Cloud Gaming on your phone or tablet. The Game Pass app is your gateway to a vast library, so when it freezes, crashes, or won’t load, it feels like someone locked the door to your own game room.This guide is here to be that trusty multi-tool in your digital pocket. We’ll walk through why the Game Pass app not working happens, provide a lightning-fast fix for the impatient, and then dive into detailed, step-by-step solutions tailored for your platform. You’ll be back to exploring new worlds or grinding achievements in no time.

Why Does the Game Pass App Act Up?

The Game Pass app is a complex piece of software that relies on a delicate harmony between your device, its operating system, Microsoft’s servers, and your own network. A hiccup in any one of these areas can cause problems. Common culprits include:
  • Temporary Glitches: Like any app, it can suffer from minor software bugs or cached data corruption.
  • Outdated Software: Running an old version of the app, your console OS, or PC drivers can lead to compatibility issues.
  • Service Outages: Sometimes, the problem is entirely on Microsoft’s end with Xbox Live or Game Pass services.
  • Network Issues: Strict NAT types, DNS problems, or general internet instability can block the app’s connection.
  • Account & Licensing Errors: If the app can’t verify your active Game Pass subscription, it will understandably refuse to load your games.

Quick Fix for the Impatient User

Before we dive deep, try this universal first step that solves a surprising number of issues: Perform a full power cycle.
  • On Console: Hold the power button for 10 seconds until it fully shuts off. Unplug the power cable for 2 minutes.
  • On PC: Fully shut down your PC, don’t just restart. Wait a moment, then boot back up.
  • On Mobile: Fully close the Game Pass app from your app switcher and restart your device.
    • This clears temporary caches and resets network connections. If you’re still stuck, proceed to the detailed steps below.

    Detailed Step-by-Step Solutions to Get You Gaming

    Follow these steps in order. We’ll start with the simplest fixes and move to more involved solutions.

    Step 1: Check the Xbox Server Status

    Don’t waste time fixing what isn’t broken on your end.
    • Open a browser on any device and visit the official Xbox Status Page.
    • Look for any service alerts marked for Xbox Live Core Services or Xbox Cloud Gaming.
    • If there’s a green checkmark, the issue is local to you. If you see a service outage, you’ll have to wait for Microsoft to resolve it.

    Step 2: Verify Your Microsoft Account & Subscription

    The app needs to confirm you have an active Game Pass membership.
    • Go to account.microsoft.com/services on your phone or PC.
    • Ensure you’re signed in with the exact same Microsoft account you use for Game Pass.
    • Check that your Game Pass subscription is listed and not expired. If it has lapsed, you’ll need to renew it.

    Step 3: Troubleshoot Your Network Connection

    A weak or misconfigured connection is a prime suspect.
    • Run a Connection Test:
      • On Xbox: Go to Settings > General > Network settings > Test network connection.
      • On PC: Open the Xbox Console Companion app > Settings > Network > Test multiplayer connection.
    • Improve Your NAT Type: If your test shows a “Strict” or “Moderate” NAT, restart your router/modem. If problems persist, you may need to look into port forwarding for your Xbox.
    • Change Your DNS: Try switching to a public DNS like Google’s (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare’s (1.1.1.1). You can change this in your console or PC’s network settings.

    Step 4: Update Everything

    Running outdated software is asking for trouble.
    • Update the Game Pass App:
      • PC (Microsoft Store): Open the Store, click Library > Get updates.
      • Xbox: The app updates with the system. Check for console updates.
      • Android/iOS: Visit the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and check for updates.
    • Update Your System:
      • Xbox: Go to Settings > System > Updates.
      • PC: Check for Windows Updates (Settings > Windows Update).
    Game Pass App Not Working: Solutions 2
    • Update Graphics Drivers (PC): If games are crashing, visit NVIDIA GeForce Experience, AMD Radeon Software, or Intel’s support site to get the latest drivers.

    Step 5: Repair or Reset the App (PC & Mobile)

    This fixes corrupted local files without deleting everything.

    • On PC (Windows 10/11):

      1. Press Windows Key + I to open Settings.
      2. Go to Apps > Apps & features.
      3. Find Xbox or Xbox Game Pass, click the three dots, and select Advanced options.
      4. Click Repair. If that fails, click Reset.
    • On Mobile (Android/iOS):

      • Uninstall and Reinstall: Simply delete the app and download it fresh from your device’s app store. This guarantees a clean install.

    Step 6: Perform a Full Reinstallation

    If resetting didn’t work, a clean slate often does.

    • On PC: Use the same Advanced options menu as in Step 5, but this time, uninstall. Then, reinstall from the Microsoft Store.
    • On Xbox: The main app is tied to the system, but you can try uninstalling and reinstalling the Xbox Game Pass app from the dashboard if you have it pinned.

    Alternative Solutions & Advanced Fixes

    If the core steps haven’t worked, these targeted approaches can help.

    • Disable VPN/Proxy Services: VPNs can interfere with the Game Pass service’s ability to verify yourlocation and subscription. Temporarily disable them to test.
    • Check Firewall/Antivirus Settings (PC): Your security software might be blocking the Game Pass app. Trytemporarily disabling your firewall/antivirus to test, or add the Xboxand Game Pass apps to its “allow list.”
    • Use the Xbox Console Companion App (PC): As a temporary workaround, try downloading and using the older XboxConsole Companion app from the Microsoft Store to access your libraryand social features.

    How to Prevent Future Game Pass App Headaches

    A little maintenance can go a long way.

    1. Enable Automatic Updates: On your Xbox, PC, and mobile devices, turn on automatic updates for both the system and apps.
    2. Regularly Restart Your Hardware: Get into the habit of fully shutting down your console or PC once a week instead of using Sleep/Instant-On mode.
    3. Maintain a Stable Network: Use a wired Ethernet connection when possible for consoles and PCs. It’s far more stable than Wi-Fi for gaming.
    4. Don’t Let Your Subscription Lapse: Set a calendar reminder for a few days before your billing date to avoid an unexpected service interruption.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Q1: I keep getting error code 0x80073D26 or 0x80073CF9 on PC. What do I do?
    A: These are common Windows Store/Game Pass installation errors. The most reliable fix is to run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters > Windows Store Apps.

    Q2: The Game Pass app works, but my games won’t launch or install.
    A: This is often a licensing sync issue. On your Xbox, go to Settings > Account > Privacy & online safety > Xbox privacy >View details & customize > Communication & multiplayer and ensure “You can join multiplayer games” is set to Allow. On PC, sign out and back into the Xbox app.

    Q3: Can I play Game Pass games without the app on Xbox?
    A: Yes. On Xbox consoles, your Game Pass library is fully integrated intothe dashboard. You can browse, install, and launch games directly fromthe My Games & Apps section or the dedicated Game Pass tab without opening a separate app.

    Q4: Why is the Game Pass app so slow on my phone?
    A: App performance can suffer due to phone storage being nearly full, toomany apps running in the background, or a weak cellular/Wi-Fi signal.Try clearing your phone’s cache and ensuring you have a strongconnection.

    Q5: I’m getting a “Try again later” error. What does it mean?
    A: This is a generic error that usually points to a temporary serviceissue on Microsoft’s side or a brief problem with your internetconnection. Check the server status (Step 1) and power cycle yournetwork equipment (router/modem).

    Get Back in the Game!

    Game Pass is an incredible service, and a little technical turbulenceshouldn’t keep you from enjoying it. We hope this guide served as yourco-pilot through the troubleshooting process. Most issues can beresolved with a few simple checks and resets.

    Found this guide helpful? Pay it forward to another player in need! Share this article with your gaming squad or on your social channels. If you’ve got a fixwe didn’t mention or a story of your own Game Pass recovery, drop it inthe comments below—your tip could be the hero someone else needs.

    Still stuck on a specific error code? Explore our full library of gaming tech guides for targeted solutions. Now, go claim that next victory. Your next favorite game is waiting. Happy gaming

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