Xbox Game Pass solidifies its position as the leading subscription service in the gaming world, a status it has garnered over the years thanks to a wealth of engaging content. Every month, Microsoft enhances the service by adding a selection of new games, providing subscribers with a wealth of fresh options. While PC Game Pass may be somewhat eclipsed by its console sibling, it offers an impressive library for gamers who prefer the PC platform.
Both Xbox Game Pass and PC Game Pass feature many shared titles, reflecting Microsoft’s commitment to serve its diverse customer base, which includes gamers using both consoles and PCs. However, there are distinct differences between the two services, with certain notable game titles available exclusively on PC. This raises the question: what are the top games on PC Game Pass?
1. Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
MachineGames Presents Indy’s Best Adventure in Years
The highly anticipated Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, arguably one of the last major releases of 2024, had a tumultuous journey toward its debut. Initially facing skepticism due to its first-person perspective—contrasting the beloved third-person style of franchises like Tomb Raider and Uncharted—MachineGames managed to create an exceptional game that has now laid such concerns to rest. Upon its arrival on Game Pass, it quickly established itself as the most authentic video game representation of Dr. Jones, delivering not only stunning graphics but also a compelling narrative and gameplay that aligns perfectly with the franchise.
Diverging from a typical shooter format, the game emphasizes stealth, puzzle-solving, and exploration—elements that resonant closely with Indiana Jones’s traditional character as opposed to rampant gunplay.
2. Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy
A Beloved PS1 Classic on PC Game Pass
Despite the years that have passed, the association of Crash Bandicoot with Xbox still feels somewhat surreal. However, the platformer franchise is now most accessible on Xbox, particularly through Xbox Game Pass, which features titles like Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy. This compilation revitalizes Naughty Dog’s classic PS1 adventures, offering players an upgraded experience that includes refined controls and challenging new content.
3. Nine Sols
A Remarkable Addition to the Metroidvania Genre
Nine Sols emerges as a standout 2D Metroidvania experience, though it may initially appear just another title in a crowded genre. Created by Red Candle Games, the game captivates with its unique take on combat, focusing on deflection mechanics reminiscent of Sekiro. With a charming visual aesthetic and engaging gameplay that balances challenge with accessibility, Nine Sols is a delightful addition to the PC Game Pass lineup.
4. StarCraft 1 & 2 Remastered
The Ultimate Sci-Fi RTS Experience
The StarCraft series is synonymous with the real-time strategy genre, with the original 1998 title standing the test of time as a hallmark of quality. Included in PC Game Pass are the remastered editions of both StarCraft and its acclaimed sequel StarCraft II, along with all expansions, offering players both upgraded graphics and classic gameplay.
5. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl
An Ambitious Title with a Challenging Start
Despite a rocky launch marred by bugs and performance issues, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 managed to make its presence felt. GSC Game World’s latest installment successfully expands on the franchise’s open-world concept with impressive visuals and themes steeped in atmospheric tension, allowing players to navigate both the survival aspects and the political complexities of the game’s universe.
6. Spyro Reignited Trilogy
Welcome to Retro Adventure on PC
The acquisition of Activision Blizzard by Microsoft has transformed Spyro the Dragon into a de facto Xbox character. The Spyro Reignited Trilogy enhances the original titles while faithfully capturing the essence of the beloved adventure platformers, making it an accessible and nostalgic choice for players on PC Game Pass.
7. Call Of Duty: Black Ops 6
A Comprehensive Package for FPS Fans
After being integrated into the Xbox ecosystem, it was only a matter of time before Call of Duty titles made their way to Game Pass. Black Ops 6, developed by Treyarch and Raven Software, has succeeded in bringing both engaging solo and multiplayer experiences, making it appealing especially for fans eager for a traditional FPS gameplay.
8. South Park: The Fractured but Whole
A Hilarious RPG Adventure
The irreverent humor of South Park shines in The Fractured but Whole, a sequel that carries forward the legacy of its predecessor while delivering new comedic adventures and a revamped combat system that invites players to exercise strategic thinking during battles.
9. Frostpunk 2
A New Chapter in Survival Strategy
Building on the success of its predecessor, Frostpunk 2 enhances the original city-building mechanics within a survival context, tasking players with navigating the complexities of running a government amidst the struggle for existence in harsh conditions.
10. Sifu
A Journey Defined by Combat and Mastery
Sifu introduces an innovative mechanic where players age each time they fail in combat, blending challenging gameplay with a unique narrative structure focused on revenge. The game offers a steep learning curve, ensuring that players must refine their skills to triumph over adversaries.
11. Age Of Mythology: Retold
Reviving a Classic
Age of Mythology: Retold revitalizes the beloved RTS game with modern enhancements while retaining the nostalgia that fans cherish. The game’s engaging mythological themes and updated graphics make it an appealing entry point for both new and seasoned players alike.
12. Doom + Doom 2
Pioneering Classics of the Shooter Genre
The legendary Doom series remains a monumental influence in the realm of first-person shooters. The collection not only showcases the core games but also opens the door to a myriad of updates and enhancements that ensure the classics are accessible for new generations of gamers.
13. Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2
A Narrative-Driven Experience
Ninja Theory’s Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 stands out as a visually stunning title that amplifies character-driven storytelling, intertwining combat mechanics that serve the narrative. The sequel beautifully expands on its predecessor while inviting players into an immersive world filled with emotional depth.
14. Halo: The Master Chief Collection
Essential FPS Collection
Since its transition to PC, Halo: The Master Chief Collection has revived the epic saga of the Spartan hero, offering an extensive compilation of rich single and multiplayer experiences that resonate with fans and newcomers alike, making it a cornerstone of Game Pass.
15. Neon White
An Innovative Blend of Mechanics
Neon White has made its mark by merging deck management with platforming and speedrunning elements, creating an exhilarating gameplay experience. This unique approach, combined with intuitive controls, positions this game as a must-try on PC Game Pass.
16. Grounded
A Thrilling Cooperative Adventure
Grounded invites players into a survival game that scales down their adventure to a backyard filled with danger and discovery. The cooperative play enhances the experience, allowing friends to band together to conquer challenges, making it a standout experience for fans of survival games.
17. A Plague Tale: Requiem
Narrative and Visual Mastery
Continuing the journey from its predecessor, A Plague Tale: Requiem brings forth improved combat dynamics intertwined with a gripping storyline, ensuring players remain engaged as they navigate the challenges of the French Inquisition and the Black Plague.
18. Vampire Survivors
An Addictive Roguelike Experience
Vampire Survivors has taken the gaming scene by storm with its engaging top-down roguelike mechanics. After achieving widespread acclaim, it promises hours of replayability, offering players a range of characters and upgrades to master as they navigate through hordes of enemies.
19. SteamWorld Dig 2
A Solid Sequel in a Unique Franchise
SteamWorld Dig 2 evolves the franchise’s formula, focusing on exploration and resource management within a charming world, making it an excellent entry point for both newcomers and returning fans of the series.
20. Star Wars Jedi: Survivor
An Engaging Journey Through the Star Wars Universe
Despite encountering performance issues at launch, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor introduces players to an expansive universe with a captivating story, further developing Cal Kestis’s character and gameplay mechanics that feel rewarding, despite some occasional glitches.
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