Will Madden NFL 26 Be on Xbox Game Pass at Launch? Here’s what EA, Xbox, and Game Pass subscribers need to know about early access, trial windows, and long-term availability

Many Xbox users wonder: will Madden NFL 26 be included in Xbox Game Pass? Unfortunately, the answer is no—the game will not be part of Game Pass on release. However, there's still a way to try it early.

🚫 Madden 26 Not on Game Pass at Launch

Madden NFL 26 will not be available via Xbox Game Pass on day one. Instead, the game will be released through standard retail channels across PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC.

🎮 10‑Hour Trial for EA Play & Game Pass Ultimate Subscribers

Ultimate subscribers who also have access to EA Play will get a 10-hour trial, starting August 11, 2025, three days before full launch. This trial is available via EA Play—bundled with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate or EA Play on PC.

🎯 Full Access Still Requires Purchase

To continue playing beyond the trial, players must:

• Purchase the game outright (Deluxe or MVP edition for early access),
• Or subscribe to EA Play Pro.
  Codes redeemed after August 14, 2025, will lose access to early access perks and challenges.

📅 Launch Timeline at a Glance

• Full Game Access 🎮 Requires purchase of the standard, Deluxe, or MVP edition — or an active EA Play Pro subscription.

• 10-Hour Trial ⏱️ Available from August 11–14 via EA Play, included with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.

• Full Release Date 🗓️ Officially launches on August 14, 2025 across all major platforms.

✅ Why This Matters

• No full-day-one inclusion means Game Pass members needing full access must still purchase.
• Early trial windows offer limited play for dedicated fans before launch.
• EA Play Pro offers long-term access, but requires ongoing subscription.

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📝 TL;DR

• Madden NFL 26 will not be part of Xbox Game Pass at launch.
• A 10-hour trial via EA Play is available for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers starting August 11.
• Full gameplay access requires buying the game or subscribing to EA Play Pro.
• Early access perks expire if redeemed after August 14, 2025.

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For Game Pass updates, trial reminders, and console exclusive insights—visit the 1v1Me blog!