Do You Need Xbox Live Points to Play Online? No—Points Are Gone

Xbox Live Points (Microsoft Points) were discontinued in 2013. They were replaced by local currency (Microsoft Account balance)—dollars, pounds, euros, etc. You cannot earn, buy, or spend Points anymore.

What You Actually Need for Online Play

An Xbox Live Gold subscription (now part of Xbox Game Pass Core) or Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. This paid membership unlocks:

• Online multiplayer in most paid games.
• Monthly free games (Games with Gold / Core library).
• Exclusive Store discounts.
• Cloud save storage.

How to Pay for Gold / Game Pass

• Credit/Debit card or PayPal on xbox.com or console Store.
• Microsoft Account balance (add funds via gift cards from Amazon, Walmart, etc.).
• Xbox Gift Cards (digital codes) — often sold at a discount.
• Microsoft Rewards points → redeem for Xbox Gift Cards → buy subscription.

Points are history. Subscriptions are the gatekeeper. Choose Gold/Core or Ultimate based on your game library needs.