If you are an avid gamer looking to get your hands on the latest Xbox games before everyone else, learning how to play games early on Xbox is crucial. Using the right strategies, you can gain an edge over your friends and access new games before anyone else.
We have put together the best ways to play games a day early on Xbox, from joining the Xbox game pass to changing your location setting.
How to Play Games Early on Xbox [4 Methods]
There are 4 ways to play games early on Xbox: changing your location setting to New Zealand, joining Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to play EA games early, via the Xbox Insider Program, or purchasing “preview games” in the Xbox marketplace.
Find out if you can play Mario Kart on Xbox.
If you are eager to be at the forefront and enjoy the thrill of playing games before anyone else, here is a detailed explanation of each method:
Method 1: Changing Your Location Setting
Changing your location to New Zealand lets you access and play the game before its release date in your actual region. This trick makes it appear you are accessing the Xbox Store from New Zealand, bypassing the time restrictions.
Note: This trick doesn’t work on all PlayStation games.
Here is how to change the Xbox location to New Zealand:
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Step 1. Press the
Xboxbutton of your controller and go to your “Settings” menu. -
Step 2. Go to” System > Language and Location”.
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Step 3. Change your location to “New Zealand”.
Important! You have to change your location a day before the release date. Additionally, ensure you have a Game Pass Membership before attempting so.
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Step 4. Select “Restart Now”
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Step 5. Download the pre-ordered game.
Want to play more games? Find out everything you need to know about JTAGGING an Xbox here.
Method 2: Join Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to Play EA Games Early
EA Play is an ultimate game membership service that allows you to play EA games early before their official launch. You can get EA Play with your subscription to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate for $14.99/month.
Unfortunately, early trials only allow you to play the game for a limited time, typically 10 hours. And it is majorly for select titles.
Here is how you can play EA games early on Xbox:
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Step 1. Go to “My Games & Apps”.
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Step 2. Go to “Full Library > EA Games” & select “Game Trials”.
Find out if Valorant is on Xbox Game Pass.
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Step 3. Choose the game you want to play.
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Step 4. Select “See in the Microsoft Store”.
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Step 5. Select the “Free Trial With EA Play” option.
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Step 6. Select “Install All” and start playing!
You will be given up to 10 hours to play the game.
To get the most out of the Game, completely download the Game before playing. Note that if you want to play online or connect to multiplayer, you need an Xbox Live Gold subscription.
If you have any extra doubts, you can check how to use EA Play on Xbox.
Method 3: Via the Xbox Insider Program
The Xbox Insider Program is an app that lets users test new Xbox features, games, and updates before releasing them to the public.
To participate, you need to install the Insider Hub app on your Xbox device, which will give you early access to games and allow you to provide feedback. The app is the primary platform for engaging in the Xbox Insider Program.
Once installed, open the app, choose “Previews” and join a game, app, or other experience that you like. Although, not all games may be available to everyone. You will only be given games depending on your selected preference and your Insider level. Here are the detailed steps:
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Step 1. Press the
Xboxbutton and go to the “Microsoft store”. -
Step 2. Click on the “Search” icon and enter “Xbox Insider” on the search bar.
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Step 3. Download and install the “Xbox Insider Hub” app.
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Step 4. Launch the app and sign up for an account.
You can find the App by pressing the
Xboxbutton, selecting “My Games & Apps”, and then “See All”. -
Step 5. Open the “Preview” section & join the “Xbox Update Preview” program.
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Step 6. Enjoy playing games before their official release.
Modding your Xbox will also allow you to play more games on it. Discover how to modify an Xbox 360 here.
Method 4: Using a VPN
You can set up a VPN on your Xbox console using a router, Mac, or Windows. Ensure you purchase one with fast internet speeds and reliable servers. In this section, we will use a router.
Installing a VPN on a router depends on the VPN you’ll use. You can refer to your VPN’s official website for the installation process. It’s also worth noting that once your router is VPN-abled, all connected devices will be VPN-protected.
After setting up the VPN, connect your Xbox to the internet. The Xbox will automatically use the country the VPN is set to, allowing you to change location on your Xbox and play games early.
Did you know you can play GTA RP on Xbox?
Can You Play Pre-Ordered Games Early?
Whether you can play pre-ordered games early depends on the specific game. Certain games offer early access, while others do not. Some may also provide demo versions before the official launch.
Microsoft also provides early access to games through the Insider program or subscription services like Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
Do you want games to download faster on your Xbox? Check out this article.
Summary of the Best Ways to Play Games Early on Xbox
Early access to Xbox games can be a thrilling and satisfying experience, offering gamers exclusive opportunities. To make the most of this, it’s important to understand the methods and stay up-to-date with the latest gaming technology.
But it’s essential to approach early access ethically. Engaging in unauthorized activities can result in severe punishments, such as account bans or suspensions. So, it’s best to avoid these actions to enjoy your gaming experience safely and fairly.
