Microsoft to launch Xbox Mastercard in the US, issued by Barclays

By Delisha Fernandes

Microsoft-owned gaming platform Xbox, Barclays and Mastercard announced the launch of Xbox Mastercard, a first-ever co-branded credit card in the United States.

Issued by Barclays US Consumer Bank, the Xbox Mastercard will be available on September 21 exclusively to qualified Xbox Insiders across all 50 states, with availability open to the general public in the US in 2024.

“We have heard feedback from the Xbox community that they want more ways to get value for their purchases,” said Dave McCarthy, CVP Xbox Player Services. “We are excited to partner with Barclays and Mastercard to expand the ways Xbox players can earn rewards for gaming.”

With no annual fee and a bonus of 5,000 card points after their first purchase, the card was built to offer perks to reward cardmembers across different experiences, including three months of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate when they make their first purchase within 180 days of opening their account.

Additional benefits include 3X card points on select streaming platforms and dining delivery services, 1X card points for other everyday purchases, and more. With a choice of five iconic card designs and the option to customize it with their Xbox gamertag, the Xbox Mastercard brings together the virtual experiences players love most, into everyday purchases, for wherever and whenever they want to shop.

“We are excited to partner with Xbox and Mastercard to tap into the passion and enthusiasm of the Xbox community and deliver a product and experience that heightens their gaming enjoyment,” said Denny Nealon, CEO, Barclays US Consumer Bank. “Xbox is a great brand, and we look forward to building upon our partner-first model to deliver a credit card product that sets the standard for gaming enthusiasts everywhere.”

The release of the Xbox Mastercard marks a longstanding partnership between Mastercard and Microsoft, which is rooted in innovating safe, secure and seamless commerce experiences leveraging digital technologies including artificial intelligence, cyber security solutions, and fraud management offerings.