Xbox surprise free store credit roasted by fans, and we can see why

You might want to check your Xbox messages because Microsoft may have sent you free store credit for no apparent reason.

Typically, to earn free store credit, we may have to rely on loyalty schemes like Microsoft Rewards and PlayStation Stars, which require us to complete easy campaigns in return for points.

Those points can then be spent on digital storefronts, such as the Xbox Marketplace, on full games and DLC. You can even redeem points towards an Xbox Game Pass subscription.

Check out The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered trailer below!

However, Microsoft has sometimes been known to ping free Xbox store credit as a private message on consoles for whatever reason. That being said, I’ve never been so lucky.

“Check your Xbox messages. I got free $10 credit,” announced Redditor thoroughnessisdead. “I just checked my Xbox messages today and saw the credit. Xbox sent it out on 17 April 2025, so hopefully you all get it too, good luck!”

“Mine just says I almost have enough Microsoft points for a $1.25 gift card,” said a dejected ThisGuy_IsAwesome with another Reddit user adding, “I legit get offended every time I get that message. What is this? A gift for ants?”

“YOU LIED TO ME! JUST LIKE MY FATHER!” yelled Brown-b3ar.

“Do you play on Xbox often? If I had to guess, they probably sent it to users who aren't active to get shopping/playing on Xbox,” said the sensible Izay.

To which Nikolapc replied, saying, “It doesn't matter, it's totally random. Except if there's a promo, and those are usually $5 cards. I think there's one for Minecraft right now.”

So it might be worth checking your Xbox console messages, just in case. Just be wary of randoms claiming to have information on your mum or wanting the three-digit security code on the back of your bank card.