Tag: Xbox Game Pass

  • Gears of War: Reloaded Surpasses 1 Million Players in 3 Days

    Gears of War: Reloaded Surpasses 1 Million Players in 3 Days

    Key Takeaways

    1. Launch Success: Gears of War: Reloaded attracted over 1 million players across Xbox Series S|X, PC, and PlayStation 5 within three days of its launch on August 26, 2025.

    2. Positive Reception: The game received an average OpenCritic score of 81 out of 100, with players praising its enhanced graphics, performance, and faithful recreation of the original game’s action.

    3. PC Player Count: On Steam, the game peaked at 4,819 players on launch day but dropped to 1,158, with a user score of 52.80% from 1,345 reviews, not reflecting the overall console or Game Pass impact.

    4. Significant Date: August 26 is notable in gaming history for the simultaneous launch of Gears of War: Reloaded on PlayStation and Helldivers 2 on Xbox, hinting at potential future releases for Gears of War on PlayStation.

    5. End of Exclusivity: This remastered edition marks the end of nearly two decades of Xbox exclusivity, allowing PlayStation players to experience the Gears of War franchise for the first time.


    Gears of War: Reloaded was launched just 3 days ago on August 26, 2025, and it’s made a huge splash by attracting over 1 million players on Xbox Series S|X, PC, and for the very first time, PlayStation 5.

    This impressive news was shared by The Coalition on their Gears of War account on X, where they expressed gratitude by saying, “Ending the console war, one grub at a time. Thank you for one million players.” The remastered version of Gears of War has been met with positive feedback, receiving an average OpenCritic score of 81 out of 100 from 52 reviews. Players have particularly appreciated its enhanced graphics, better performance, and the authentic recreation of the original game’s intense and bloody third-person action.

    Player Counts and Feedback

    On the PC side, specifically on Steam, the game peaked at 4,819 players on its launch day, but that number has since fallen to 1,158, along with a 52.80% user score from 1,345 reviews. It’s important to note that this figure does not reflect the overall console launch or the impact of Game Pass subscriptions on both consoles and PC, which played a much bigger part in reaching the 1 million player mark.

    A Milestone in Gaming History

    August 26 has become a significant date in gaming history, as Gears of War: Reloaded made its debut on PlayStation, while Helldivers 2, a title exclusive to Sony, also launched on Xbox simultaneously for the very first time. This has sparked rumors that more Gears of War games might be released on PlayStation at launch in the future rather than just as timed exclusives.

    The Gears of War franchise is generating excitement, especially with the upcoming prequel Gears of War: E-Day, which has been in development for over five years and is set to serve as a direct lead-in to the original Gears trilogy.

    A New Era for Gears of War

    Brought to life by The Coalition and published by Microsoft, this revamped edition of the 2006 Gears of War, which had previously been remastered in 2015 as Gears of War Ultimate Edition, marks the end of nearly two decades of Xbox exclusivity, letting PlayStation players join in on the action in the rugged landscape of Sera.

    The game also came out as a day-one title on Xbox Game Pass, contributing to the overall player count, since the milestone of 1 million includes both purchasers and subscribers, rather than just sales alone.

    In addition to the gaming updates, the series is heading to the big screen with a movie adaptation currently in development, but fans will need to be patient until 2027 for its anticipated release.

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  • Xbox Cloud Gaming Launches on Core and Standard Game Pass Tiers

    Xbox Cloud Gaming Launches on Core and Standard Game Pass Tiers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox Cloud Gaming has been added to Game Pass Core and Standard tiers for Xbox Insiders in a beta test starting August 27, 2025.
    2. Game Pass Core costs $9.99/month and includes multiplayer access and 25 games, while Game Pass Standard is $14.99/month with hundreds of console titles but no day-one releases.
    3. Lower-tier Game Pass members can now stream PC versions of selected games on Windows PCs and handheld devices via the Xbox App.
    4. To join the beta test, users must enroll in the Xbox Insider Program and activate preview features through their account settings.
    5. Microsoft aims to create a more budget-friendly Xbox Cloud Gaming service, making it more accessible to a wider audience across 28 countries.


    Microsoft has enhanced its Xbox Game Pass Subscription service by including Xbox Cloud Gaming to its more budget-friendly Core and Standard tiers as part of a beta test for Xbox Insiders.

    Beta Test Details

    As reported by Xbox Wire, the beta test began on August 27, 2025. Users who are part of the Xbox Insider Program and hold memberships for Game Pass Core or Game Pass Standard can now utilize the Xbox Cloud Gaming Beta. This allows them to stream games on various devices like browsers, mobile phones, and smart TVs.

    This marks a notable shift from the existing subscription model, where Cloud Streaming has generally been limited to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers, which costs $19.99 each month.

    Pricing and Features

    Game Pass Core is available for $9.99, enabling players to engage in multiplayer games and access a selection of 25 games. In contrast, Game Pass Standard is priced at $14.99 monthly and grants entry to hundreds of console titles, but excludes day-one game releases.

    Moreover, Xbox Insiders subscribing to lower tiers can now play PC versions of selected games, which means they can enjoy gaming on Windows PCs or handheld devices through the Xbox App.

    How to Join

    To take part in this, users interested must enroll in the Xbox Insider Program by downloading the Xbox Insider Hub on their console or PC and activating preview features through their account settings at xbox.com/play or the Xbox TV app.

    This expansion comes shortly after Microsoft hinted at its vision for a “more budget-friendly” Xbox Cloud Gaming service, aiming to welcome lower-tier members into the game streaming fold. Jason Ronald, Microsoft’s Vice President of Next Generation Experiences, previously mentioned the possibilities for new features, asserting:

    “One of the things we see is that there are lots of players who use Game Pass Ultimate to access the cloud, whether that’s the primary way they play or an additional way to play on the go. I think for us, it really opens up the opportunity to make it much more accessible to players. Whether that’s through a dedicated cloud tier or something else, we’re still working on those details.”

    Though the current beta is restricted to Insiders, Microsoft appears committed to making its Xbox ecosystem more reachable and economical across the 28 countries where Xbox Cloud Gaming is on offer.

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  • Next Week on Xbox Game Pass: Two New AAA Titles Arriving

    Next Week on Xbox Game Pass: Two New AAA Titles Arriving

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox Game Pass is focusing on quality over quantity, releasing only two major AAA titles in the last week of August.
    2. “Gears of War: Reloaded” launches on August 26 and is available on Xbox Game Pass from day one, featuring enhanced gameplay and graphics.
    3. Players will control Marcus Fenix in a remastered version of the original Gears of War, utilizing a variety of weapons and a strategic cover system.
    4. “Dragon Age: The Veilguard” is set to release in October 2024, featuring a story centered on combatting the Dread Wolf and the Veil’s destruction.
    5. Players can create their own hero and build relationships with seven unique companions, affecting both the narrative and gameplay outcomes.


    In the last week of August, Xbox Game Pass is prioritizing quality rather than quantity. While subscribers enjoyed five new games the week before, this time only two are coming. Nevertheless, both are major AAA titles, and one is debuting on the service right from its launch.

    Gears of War: Reloaded

    Gears of War: Reloaded, crafted by The Coalition alongside Sumo Digital and Disbelief, is set to release on August 26. This third-person shooter will be accessible on Xbox Game Pass right from day one. It’s a remastered edition of the original Gears of War, which first hit the market in 2006.

    Players will once more don the role of Marcus Fenix, commanding Delta Squad as they confront the Locust threat hidden underground. The gameplay focuses on the franchise’s well-known cover system, allowing for swift repositioning and strategic movements. In addition to the legendary Lancer rifle, which features a chainsaw bayonet, players can also use shotguns, grenades, and heavy weaponry for diverse combat scenarios. Reloaded introduces enhanced animations, better hit and damage feedback, and smoother movements, resulting in a more immersive and thrilling combat experience.

    Dragon Age: The Veilguard

    Dragon Age: The Veilguard, an action RPG set to release in October 2024, brings players back to the realm of Thedas. The narrative centers around the conflict against Solas, the “Dread Wolf,” who seeks to dismantle the Veil and throw the world into turmoil. Players must assemble a group of allies and thwart his plans before ancient forces are unleashed, leading to irreversible devastation for Thedas. The digital copy is currently selling for $30 on Amazon, while the physical edition is priced at $80.

    You get to create your own hero and guide a party of seven distinct companions, each possessing unique backstories, personalities, and skills. What makes this game unique is how your relationships with these characters can change the story’s direction. Combat employs a lively real-time system complemented by tactical pauses, class-specific abilities, and impactful combos. Your decisions will not only affect the game’s ending but also the strength of the relationships within your team.

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  • Gamescom 2025: Day-One Xbox Game Pass Launch This September

    Gamescom 2025: Day-One Xbox Game Pass Launch This September

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Gameplay Style: Deep Rock Galactic: Survivors shifts from co-op gameplay to a solo, top-down survival format with automatic shooting mechanics.

    2. Roguelite Format: The game follows a roguelite structure, where players restart upon death but retain unlocked gear, enhancing replayability.

    3. Class Selection: Players can choose from four distinct classes: Gunner, Engineer, Driller, or Scout, each offering unique gameplay experiences.

    4. Positive Reception: The game received a score of 8 out of 10 from IGN, praised for its humor and engaging gameplay, despite criticism of short missions and limited Early Access content.

    5. Official Launch and Availability: Deep Rock Galactic: Survivors will exit Early Access on September 17, 2025, and will be available on Xbox Game Pass, with the Early Access priced around $13 on Steam.


    Deep Rock Galactic is seen as one of the top co-op shooters around. It takes place in the dangerous caves of planet Hoxxes IV, where dwarves extract resources, combat alien hordes, and navigate through missions that are randomly generated. On February 14, 2025, fans were excited to see the release of Deep Rock Galactic: Survivors – a fresh installment in the same universe, but it offers a totally new gameplay style, released in Early Access.

    New Gameplay Experience

    Deep Rock Galactic: Survivors transforms the dwarven quest into a top-down survival game, where you journey through the caves solo. The weapons shoot automatically, allowing you to keep moving while you defend against enemy waves, gather precious minerals, and pick up beneficial upgrades. Each attempt follows the roguelite format – if you die, you restart, but any gear you’ve unlocked carries over. Players can select from four classes: Gunner, Engineer, Driller, or Scout. Unlike its cooperative predecessor, Survivors is solely a single-player experience with no multiplayer or co-op options.

    Positive Reviews

    IGN reviewed Deep Rock Galactic: Survivors and commended its effective shift to a single-player style, noting how well it retains the original’s signature humor, sound design, and overall feel. The game was praised for its captivating gameplay loop and quick progression. However, IGN pointed out some negatives like the short missions – which are often just a couple of minutes – and the limited content in Early Access. Despite these issues, the game received a solid score of 8 out of 10. On Steam, it has close to 38,000 reviews, with 86% giving it a positive rating.

    Upcoming Launch

    Gamescom 2025 is happening in Cologne from August 20 to 24. During this event, fans got to see a new trailer for Deep Rock Galactic: Survivors, along with thrilling news: starting September 17, when the game exits Early Access and officially launches, it will be available on Xbox Game Pass. The Early Access version is currently priced around $13 on Steam. It’s also important to mention that Survivors is fully verified for the Steam Deck (which is available on Amazon for about $475).

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  • 5 New Xbox Game Pass Games This Week: Lead Your Own Herd Adventure

    5 New Xbox Game Pass Games This Week: Lead Your Own Herd Adventure

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox Game Pass added three new titles last week and will introduce five more this week, including management sims, shooters, and JRPGs.
    2. Blacksmith Master allows players to manage a medieval forge, with features like mining, crafting, and workshop automation.
    3. Void/Breaker is a roguelite FPS with procedurally generated levels, AI-driven time loops, and extensive weapon customization.
    4. Goat Simulator Remastered offers chaotic sandbox gameplay with improved visuals and new customization options for players to create mayhem as a goat.
    5. Herdling is a serene adventure game where players guide magical creatures while solving puzzles and uncovering a narrative about connection and survival.


    Last week, Xbox Game Pass brought three fresh titles for subscribers. This week, Microsoft is set to add five additional games. Blacksmith Master and Void/Breaker were made available on August 19, while the other games will be released on August 20 and 21. The options range from management simulation games and shooters to quirky sandbox experiences and JRPGs, catering to various preferences. The highlight among these is Herdling. Launching on the first day for Game Pass, this distinctive adventure enables players to guide a herd of fantasy creatures from a third-person view, styled visually similar to Zelda: Breath of the Wild.

    Blacksmith Master Overview

    Blacksmith Master is a management sim themed around medieval times where players oversee their very own forge. Activities include mining ore, crafting weaponry, and selling tools along with household items. As players advance in the game, they can automate tasks, expand and personalize their workshop, and build a commendable reputation within the local marketplace.

    Void/Breaker Features

    Void/Breaker is an action-packed roguelite first-person shooter that throws players into a ceaseless, AI-driven time loop. With a wide array of weapon customization options, players can create countless loadouts to match any style of play. The levels are generated procedurally, and the environments are fully destructible, allowing players to alter the battlefield to gain an advantage.

    Goat Simulator Remastered

    This quirky sandbox game puts players in the hooves of Pilgor the goat, with a singular aim: create as much chaos as possible. Goat Simulator Remastered offers madness through headbutting, flips, and wacky ragdoll physics. The remastered version boasts improved visuals, all previously released downloadable content, and a new Mutator menu that allows players to tailor their goat’s capabilities for even more ridiculous enjoyment.

    Persona 4 Golden Highlights

    Persona 4 Golden is a beloved title in the acclaimed Persona series, merging traditional RPG elements with daily life simulation. Players assume the role of a student relocating to the peaceful town of Inaba, where they attend school, forge friendships, and lead what appears to be a normal existence – all while secretly fighting monsters in a mysterious TV realm to unveil the truth behind a series of murders. The Golden edition enhances the original game with new characters, music, and additional story elements.

    Herdling Experience

    Herdling is a tranquil adventure game where players become a guardian guiding a herd of magical beings known as Calicorns. As you traverse through mountains, forests, snowy plains, and valleys, you will solve environmental puzzles, safeguard your herd from dangers, and reveal a silent narrative about trust, survival, and connection.

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  • Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Adds 100th Exclusive Game for PC in 2025

    Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Adds 100th Exclusive Game for PC in 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate has added its 100th game, 9 Kings, in 2025, achieving a milestone of 100 titles this year.
    2. 9 Kings, a roguelike kingdom-building auto-battler, is currently available on PC only through Game Pass and is in early access.
    3. The game, developed by Brazilian indie team Sad Socket, sold over 250,000 copies in its first week and received a “Very Positive” rating on Steam.
    4. The first wave of Game Pass titles includes 9 Kings, Assassin’s Creed Mirage, Aliens: Fireteam Elite, and Rain World, with more releases scheduled.
    5. Upcoming Game Pass titles include Frostpunk 2, Ball x Pitt, Ninja Gaiden 4, and The Outer Worlds 2, while three titles have been removed from the service.


    Xbox Game Pass Ultimate has reached a milestone with the addition of its 100th game in 2025, introducing 9 Kings to the platform. This marks a significant achievement, as 100 titles have been added to Game Pass this year. 9 Kings is a dynamic roguelike kingdom-building auto-battler, crafted by the Brazilian indie team Sad Socket and published by Hooded Horse.

    Availability and Platform

    Currently, 9 Kings can only be played on PC, and there are no announcements regarding its release on Xbox. It is accessible through both PC Game Pass and Game Pass Ultimate as part of Game Preview.

    Developer Background

    Sad Socket, co-founded by Andre Young and Rafael Melo, operates out of São Paulo and New York City. The studio launched 9 Kings in early access on Steam on May 23, 2025. The game quickly received acclaim, earning a “Very Positive” rating with a 92.94% user score based on 11,551 reviews.

    Launch Success

    In its first week, 9 Kings sold over 250,000 copies, and within a month, it surpassed 400,000 sales, making it one of the most successful launches in the Brazilian gaming scene. The developers plan to keep the game in early access until about May 2026, after which they aim to bring it to consoles.

    Game Pass Lineup

    The addition of 9 Kings is part of the first wave of Xbox Game Pass titles, announced on August 5, 2025. In addition to this new roguelike city builder, subscribers can also play Assassin’s Creed Mirage, which launched on August 7, Aliens: Fireteam Elite on August 12, and Rain World.

    Upcoming Releases

    The second wave of Game Pass is set to arrive on August 19, featuring exciting day-one releases like Herdling on August 21 and Gears of War: Reloaded on August 26 for both PC and Xbox Series S|X.

    Future Additions

    As the year progresses, Game Pass members can look forward to Frostpunk 2 for Xbox Series S|X on September 18, Ball x Pitt on October 15, Keeper on October 17, Ninja Gaiden 4 on October 21, and The Outer Worlds 2 on October 29, all available as day-one releases on PC and Series S|X through Game Pass PC and Game Pass Ultimate.

    Departing Titles

    Sadly, as of August 15, three titles have been removed from Xbox Game Pass: Persona 3 Reload, Anthem, and Farming Simulator 22. Nonetheless, Xbox Game Pass continues to refresh its library with over 100 new additions this year, including fresh titles like Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4, Mafia: The Old Country, Wuchang: Fallen Feathers, and Grounded 2.

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  • Xbox Game Pass Affects AAA Sales, PlayStation Gamers Stay Loyal

    Xbox Game Pass Affects AAA Sales, PlayStation Gamers Stay Loyal

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox Game Pass aims to engage players, but users are not spending as much time on the service as expected.
    2. Gamers quickly sample games on Game Pass, limiting their overall playtime and commitment to titles.
    3. Game Pass subscriptions negatively impact traditional game sales, with fewer purchases of popular titles like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6.
    4. Xbox’s lack of exclusive titles on its platform leads to decreased loyalty, as players access these games on competing systems like PlayStation.
    5. The Newzoo study indicates that Game Pass is cannibalizing sales and failing to maintain player loyalty to Xbox consoles and services.


    One objective of Xbox Game Pass is to keep players engaged within the Microsoft Gaming environment. However, a Newzoo study, which was brought up during a Game Wise podcast, suggests that subscribers are not spending as much time on the service as anticipated. Gamers tend to sample games on Xbox Game Pass but then quickly move on, which also limits possible sales.

    Gaming Habits of Users

    The conversation highlighted the differences in gaming habits between Xbox and PlayStation users. Even though Game Pass offers a greater number of titles for a monthly fee, subscribers are restricting their playtime. Players often browse through the catalog at a fast pace until they find something interesting. Without a significant commitment, gamers are less inclined to overlook any flaws they notice early in the gameplay.

    Impact on Game Sales

    Newzoo also examined how Game Pass subscriptions influence traditional game sales. Taking Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 as an example, Xbox fans purchased fewer copies of the game compared to earlier titles in the franchise. Conversely, indie and AA games might not be as impacted. Many gamers would likely miss out on these releases without the exposure provided by Microsoft’s service.

    Xbox Loyalty Issues

    The availability of many previously exclusive Xbox titles on the PS5 doesn’t promote loyalty to Xbox. This situation led Michael Pachter, who had earlier predicted robust growth for Game Pass, to adjust his estimates. Gamers are accessing titles from various studios that Microsoft has acquired, but they frequently do so on the competing PlayStation system.

    Unfortunately, some of the developers under Microsoft’s control have recently closed down. Raphael Colantonio, the founder of Arkane Studios, cited day-one Xbox Game Pass games as a factor in job losses. Without having a period of exclusivity before arriving on the service, consumers have less incentive to pay the full price for a game.

    Conclusions of the Study

    In truth, the findings from the Newzoo study didn’t reveal many unexpected insights. Despite claims from Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer to the contrary, Game Pass is somewhat cannibalizing sales. Even more concerning for the company, it isn’t maintaining player loyalty to Xbox consoles or services.

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  • Next Week in Xbox Game Pass: 2 New Games, Including Roguelike

    Next Week in Xbox Game Pass: 2 New Games, Including Roguelike

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft added six new games to Xbox Game Pass between August 4 and 10, followed by two significant titles the next week.
    2. 9 Kings is a well-received roguelike kingdom builder with over 10,000 reviews and a 92% positive rating since its Early Access launch on May 23.
    3. Aliens: Fireteam Elite is a cooperative third-person shooter set 23 years after the original Aliens trilogy, featuring four campaigns and up to three players.
    4. The gameplay in Aliens: Fireteam Elite emphasizes teamwork and strategic positioning to fend off xenomorphs and hostile synthetics.
    5. 9 Kings allows players to craft realms and raid opposing kingdoms, with randomized features that enhance replayability and strategic variety.


    In the days between August 4 and 10, Microsoft astonished gamers by adding six new games to Xbox Game Pass. The following week, however, only sees two new titles, but they are significant – especially 9 Kings, a well-received roguelike kingdom builder that began its Early Access on May 23. Since its launch, it has gathered over 10,000 reviews, with 92% being positive. Another title making its way to the service is Aliens: Fireteam Elite, a cooperative shooter set in the famous Aliens universe.

    The Thrilling Experience of Aliens: Fireteam Elite

    In Aliens: Fireteam Elite, players step into the shoes of a Colonial Marine who is answering a distress call with their team, taking place 23 years after the original trilogy. The adventure takes them to the Katanga space station and the planet LV-895, where they confront hordes of xenomorphs, perilous experiments, and ancient alien structures. The game includes four campaigns, each made up of three linked missions, and operates as a cooperative third-person shooter for up to three marines – whether with friends or AI partners. In these linear, Left 4 Dead-style missions, players must fend off xenomorphs and hostile synthetics from all sides, which makes teamwork and strategic positioning vital. Randomized features like challenge cards help keep each mission exciting.

    Discovering the Fast-Paced World of 9 Kings

    9 Kings is a dynamic roguelike kingdom builder where players craft their own realms and participate in grand battles. Each of the nine kings starts with a distinct deck of buildings, troops, and spells. By raiding opposing kingdoms, players can seize their cards and resources, unlocking a multitude of building strategies and playstyles. Staying true to the roguelike essence, if you lose, you are sent back to the start to have another go.

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  • Xbox Game Pass Welcomes 6 New Titles: AAA Release & Indie Gem

    Xbox Game Pass Welcomes 6 New Titles: AAA Release & Indie Gem

    Key Takeaways

    1. Rain World, a survival platformer, gained popularity after its DLCs, featuring a challenging gameplay where players survive as a cat-like creature in a post-apocalyptic world.
    2. Citizen Sleeper 2 is a unique RPG where players control a fugitive robot, using dice mechanics for actions while navigating a harsh capitalist environment.
    3. Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders is a stylish skiing game that emphasizes precision and offers various modes, including solo runs and co-op missions.
    4. MechWarrior 5: Clans immerses players in the BattleTech universe, allowing them to pilot customizable mechs and manage their squad through intense battles.
    5. Assassin’s Creed Mirage returns to the franchise roots with a focus on stealth and precise assassinations in 9th-century Baghdad, featuring a more compact game world.


    Six new and thrilling games are set to hit Xbox Game Pass this week. If indie games with charm and challenge are your thing, you should definitely look into Rain World, which became available on August 5. This survival platformer gained significant attention after the release of its first two DLCs. For those who prefer blockbuster gaming, Assassin’s Creed Mirage will be added to Game Pass on August 7. Check out the complete list of upcoming titles below.

    Rain World: A Hidden Gem

    Rain World is a survival platformer that didn’t attract much attention when it was first released in 2017. However, after the debut of its first DLC, Downpour, in early 2023, the game saw a notable increase in players. This popularity continued to rise with the expansion The Watcher, released in March 2025, which, according to SteamDB, more than doubled the peak player count, hitting over 10,000 players at once.

    In Rain World, you play as a cat-like creature trying to survive in a bleak, industrial landscape damaged by environmental collapse. Your mission is to gather food, avoid deadly predators, and find shelter before a dangerous downpour happens. Just a heads up—the game is known for its extreme difficulty.

    Dive into Citizen Sleeper 2

    In this unique RPG, you take on the role of a fugitive robot that is being hunted, damaged, and stripped of its memories. As you navigate through the harsh Starward Belt, you hijack an old ship and gradually assemble a crew of other outcasts. Your collective goal is surviving in a tough, capitalist world.

    Citizen Sleeper 2 mixes dice mechanics with story-focused role-playing. Each day, you receive a set of dice which can be used for actions like missions, conversations, or repairs. Rolling higher improves the odds of success, but failing often leads to serious setbacks. Your crew adds extra dice and special skills, enhancing your strategy. Between missions, you roam the asteroid belt, meet new characters, and collect important resources.

    Experience Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders

    Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders is a stylish skiing game where players navigate through sharp turns, icy spots, and steep slopes—from snowy peaks down to the valley floor. Precision is vital; one mistake could lead to a crash in the deep snow. However, wiping out is part of the excitement. The game offers solo runs, online races, and co-op missions, allowing you to either compete or discover new trails with friends. As you progress, you can unlock new skis, outfits, and tracks.

    Engage in MechWarrior 5: Clans

    MechWarrior 5: Clans is a mech shooter that immerses players in the famous Clan Invasion within the BattleTech universe. You become a new pilot from Clan Smoke Jaguar, fighting alongside a unit of five across war-torn planets filled with conflict, political drama, and tough moral dilemmas. In fierce battles, you control a massive war machine, customizing its weapons and upgrades. Between missions, you manage your squad in the hangar and prepare your gear for the next battle.

    Chaos in Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap

    Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap mixes third-person shooter, tower defense, and roguelite elements. As a mighty War Mage, you protect magical rifts against endless waves of orcs—either alone or co-op with up to four players. Each round starts with a strategy phase to set up traps and barricades, followed by real-time combat. Each War Mage has distinct styles, with their own traps, spells, and unique abilities. Successful defenses grant random buffs and debuffs, while changing mechanics like weather and time introduce new challenges to every round.

    Enter the World of Assassin’s Creed Mirage

    Released in 2023, Assassin’s Creed Mirage is the second latest installment in Ubisoft’s iconic series. This time, players are taken to 9th-century Baghdad, following the journey of Basim—a young street thief who joins the Hidden Ones and evolves into a master assassin. Throughout his adventure, he gets wrapped up in a vast conspiracy led by the elusive Order of the Ancients, which endangers the power balance in the city.

    With Mirage, Ubisoft returns to the franchise’s roots—offering a more compact game world with an emphasis on stealth gameplay, precise assassinations, and smooth parkour. The previously dominant RPG components have been notably reduced. A new feature called Assassin’s Focus allows Basim to take out multiple targets quickly. Fans of the earlier Assassin’s Creed games will likely find themselves right at home.

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  • Three Xbox Game Pass Titles Leaving Soon, Including Popular JRPG

    Three Xbox Game Pass Titles Leaving Soon, Including Popular JRPG

    Key Takeaways

    1. Three games, including Persona 3 Reload, Farming Simulator 22, and Anthem, will be removed from Xbox Game Pass on August 15th.
    2. The removal of Persona 3 Reload may disappoint JRPG fans, especially with its upcoming launch on the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2025.
    3. Farming Simulator 22’s departure is timed with the release of Farming Simulator 25, which offers improved graphics and AI, but progress from the previous game cannot be transferred.
    4. Anthem will leave Game Pass ahead of the shutdown of its servers in January 2026, following underwhelming sales and ongoing technical issues.
    5. Players can purchase games at a discounted price to retain access, while new titles launching soon may keep subscribers engaged with Xbox Game Pass.


    One downside of Xbox Game Pass is that not all games can be downloaded forever. Microsoft has shared which three games will be removed from all subscription tiers on August 15th. Some Xbox Game Pass titles continue to get support, which might let down their fans. Players will look for other ways to access Persona 3 Reload, Farming Simulator 22, and Anthem.

    Impact on JRPG Fans

    The exit of Persona 3 Reload will hit hard for those who love JRPGs. Being a remake of the 2006 original, many gamers think it brings the old game up to date while still keeping a strong story. The improved gameplay also makes its turn-based combat even more enjoyable.

    Switch 2 Launch Connections

    With Persona 3 Reload launching on Nintendo’s new handheld on October 23, 2025, its removal from Xbox Game Pass might not be a coincidence. While this could help the Switch 2 game’s sales, Microsoft’s Xbox and PC users will be left without any Persona games available in the service.

    The Shift in Farming Simulator

    Farming Simulator 22 will also depart on August 15th, aiming to grow the player base for its sequel. On August 1st, Farming Simulator 25 became available on Game Pass. Players can look forward to enhanced graphics, which include the new ground deformation feature. The AI for workers has been improved too, making solo farming less tedious. Even though a new game is taking its place, users won’t be able to transfer their progress from Farming Simulator 22, and not every mod may still work.

    Anthem’s Inevitable Departure

    BioWare’s Anthem servers are set to close in January 2026, making its exit from Game Pass unavoidable. The action-RPG, which is set in a futuristic world, didn’t reach its sales targets or attract as many players as EA anticipated. Critics of the game, which will soon be removed, argue that it never bounced back from initial content issues and technical problems at launch.

    For those who don’t want to lose access to their Xbox Game Pass titles, they can buy them at a lower price. But with new games like Grounded 2 or Mafia: The Old Country launching on August 8th, subscribers might find enough reasons to stick with the service.

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