28 Best Xbox Game Pass Games

Since its launch in 2017, Xbox Game Pass has become one of the best deals in gaming, providing access to a diverse library of hundreds of games for a monthly fee of $10 USD ($15 if you want access to both the console and PC libraries). And with new (often excellent) games added each month, its value has continued to increase over time. We originally ran this list three years ago, but since then the Game Pass library has more than doubled, now offering over 250 games on console and nearly 200 on PC, according to Microsoft. With so many around the world staying home to help contain the spread of COVID-19, we’re updating this list so you can get the most out of your subscription. Here are the 28 best games you can play right now on Xbox Game Pass, listed alphabetically. [widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=28-best-xbox-game-pass-games&captions=true"]

Crusader Kings 3

Xbox Game Pass (PC) In IGN's Crusader Kings 3 review, we called it "a superb strategy game, a great RPG, and a master class in how to take the best parts of existing systems and make them deeper and better." Its strong grand strategy mechanics are propped up by meaningful human stories that emerge as you build and sustain a dynasty. It earned a 10 in our review, which crowned it the "new king of historical strategy." Read IGN’s Crusader Kings 3 review.

Dead Cells

Xbox Game Pass (console and PC) Thanks to its ever-changing level design, each run of Dead Cells feels fresh. The fast and fluid action-platformer provides the promise of something new at the start of each run, creating a loop of discovery that alleviates the frustration of failure; with each death comes an eagerness to see what surprises the next run holds. Read IGN’s Dead Cells review.

Destiny 2

Xbox Game Pass (console) Game Pass subscribers on console now have access to Destiny 2 and all of its current expansions, including Forsaken and Shadowkeep. It's a great time to dive into the ever-evolving shooter, as its next expansion, Beyond Light, will launch day and date on Game Pass in November. Read IGN’s Destiny 2 review. [poilib element="commerceCta" json="%7B%22image%22%3A%7B%22url%22%3A%22https%3A%2F%2Fassets1.ignimgs.com%2F2020%2F04%2F02%2FGPU1585854790416.jpg%22%2C%22styleUrl%22%3A%22https%3A%2F%2Fassets1.ignimgs.com%2F2020%2F04%2F02%2FGPU1585854790416_%7Bsize%7D.jpg%22%2C%22id%22%3A%225e86394ae4b0c8e1b49fa750%22%7D%2C%22url%22%3A%22http%3A%2F%2Fr.zdbb.net%2Fu%2Fbrs4%22%2C%22title%22%3A%22Xbox%20Game%20Pass%20Ultimate%22%2C%22store%22%3A%22Amazon%22%2C%22additionalInfo%22%3A%22%22%2C%22ourPick%22%3Afalse%7D"]

Dishonored 2

Xbox Game Pass (console and PC) Dishonored 2 is all about player choice. It’s clear from the very beginning, when you’ll choose between two playable characters, and extends throughout the roughly 12-hour campaign, which allows you to tackle each mission with any combination of stealth, smarts, and violence. And it’s all set within some of the best-designed levels in recent memory. Read IGN’s Dishonored 2 review.

Doom Eternal

Xbox Game Pass (console on October 1, PC "later in 2020") Doom Eternal is the first Bethesda game added to Game Pass since Microsoft acquired ZeniMax Media earlier in September. A sequel to id Software's 2016 Doom reboot, Eternal is one of the finest first-person shooters in recent memory. Subscribers have a lot to look forward to with Microsoft's big Bethesda acquisition, as the publisher's existing and future games, including heavy hitters like Starfield and The Elder Scrolls VI, will launch day and date on Game Pass. Read IGN’s Doom Eternal review.

Fable II

Xbox Game Pass (console) One of the all-time great Xbox 360 exclusives, Fable II is filled with well-written and fully realized characters and stories, loads of quests, and moral freedom in how you interact with the fantastical world of Albion. In our initial review, we called it “a captivating, unforgettable experience,” and that still holds true to this day. Read IGN’s Fable 2 review.

Fallout: New Vegas

Xbox Game Pass (console) Another massive open-world RPG, Fallout: New Vegas is a take on the apocalyptic wasteland painted with developer Obsidian Entertainment’s signature wit and charm. A branching main story and excellent side quests keep you moving through the Mojave Wasteland, where you’ll encounter memorable characters (its dialogue is particularly brilliant) and creatures. Game Pass also includes Fallout 4, but if you don’t mind the 360-era graphics, New Vegas is our go-to for a Fallout fix. Read IGN’s Fallout: New Vegas review.

Forza Horizon 4

Xbox Game Pass (console and PC) Playground Games has established Forza Horizon as the premier open-world racing franchise. With stunning visuals (highlighted throughout its shifting seasons), remarkable sound design, hundreds of customizable vehicles from over 80 car manufacturers, and a host of events—from racing and rally to drift and drag—Forza Horizon 4 is a must-play racer. Read IGN’s Forza Horizon 4 review.

Gears 5

Xbox Game Pass (console and PC) Gears 5 may be the second game in the series’ new saga, but it feels very much like a first; The Coalition’s latest shifts its story focus to new protagonist Kate Diaz, introduces a more open world, and the new Escape co-op mode. However, not all is new: Gears 5 retains (and sharpens) the excellent cover-based shooting and visceral up-close combat the series was built on. If you’re new to the series, we recommend you start at the beginning with Gears of War Ultimate Edition, as the entire series is available on Game Pass. If you’re put off by the time investment, at least start with Gears 4; it includes some important context to understanding the story of 5. Read IGN’s Gears 5 review. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2019/09/04/gears-5-campaign-review"]

Halo: The Master Chief Collection

Xbox Game Pass (console and PC) Xbox Game Pass is arguably the industry’s best value in terms of services, and within that service lies arguably the best value in terms of software with Halo: The Master Chief Collection. Compiling Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary and beautifully remastered versions of Halo 2, 3, ODST, Reach, and Halo 4, The Master Chief Collection includes one of gaming’s greatest sci-fi sagas spread across several of its best first-person shooters. Read IGN’s Halo: The Master Chief Collection review (2019 update).

Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice

Xbox Game Pass (console and PC) Hellblade tells an emotional 6-7-hour story, “one of confusion, sadness, fear, and loss [that’s] punctuated by moments of beauty, and strength,” as we said in our review. Its HUD-less display immerses you in a gorgeously realized Norse hellscape as protagonist Senua, whose perception of the world infiltrates your experience in imaginative, unsettling ways. The brilliant binaural audio design makes playing with headphones a must, as the voices in Senua’s head echo through yours. Even if it’s just to prepare for the sequel on Xbox Series X, Hellblade is a must-play. Read IGN’s Hellblade review.

Hollow Knight

Xbox Game Pass (console and PC) One of the best Metroidvanias in recent memory (and the first of two on this list), Hollow Knight is a stylish 2D platformer that prioritizes exploration and rewards those patient (and brave) enough to venture into its depths with a surprisingly developed story, challenging combat, and plenty of secrets to uncover. Read IGN’s Hollow Knight review.

Microsoft Flight Simulator

Xbox Game Pass (PC) Microsoft Flight Simulator uses real-life mapping data to turn the entirety of Earth into an aviation playground. It's a technical marvel that provides endless opportunities for exploration and discovery, with flexible settings that cater to novices and aficionados alike. IGN's reviewer Seth Macy awarded it a 10 and called Flight Simulator "the most incredible experience I've ever had on a computer." Read IGN’s Microsoft Flight Simulator review.

Middle-earth: Shadow of War

Xbox Game Pass (console and PC) Shadow of War builds on its already excellent predecessor, Shadow of Mordor, resulting in a bigger and more ambitious action game set in one of fiction’s most beloved worlds. The series’ main draw, however, remains the excellent Nemesis System, which has been expanded in Shadow of War to make even more memorable enemies out of otherwise forgettable foes. Read IGN’s Shadow of War review.

Monster Hunter: World

Xbox Game Pass (console) Monster Hunter: World is an excellent action-RPG with gameplay systems as deep as its open world is expansive. While more accessible than its predecessors, Monster Hunter: World is still dense, but commit to learning its systems and you’ll discover a wonderfully addictive crafting-and-hunting gameplay loop. Read IGN’s Monster Hunter: World review.

Night in the Woods

Xbox Game Pass (console and PC) Night in the Woods is a story-based adventure that explores the fears and anxieties of young adulthood through the lens of an anthropomorphic cat named Mae. It's an affecting story that balances its sadness with cartoonish charm and well-written humor. Read IGN’s Night in the Woods review.

Ori and the Will of the Wisps

Xbox Game Pass (console and PC) Ori and the Will of the Wisps demands your attention from start to finish. It’s necessary as you dash and slash your way through its challenging platforming sections, and it’s constantly captured by the gorgeous environments, whimsical characters, heartfelt story, and excellent score. Will of the Wisps oscillates between tension and serenity, and the result is an expertly choreographed dance through the vibrant land of Niwen. Read IGN’s Ori and the Will of the Wisps review. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/03/10/ori-and-the-will-of-the-wisps-review"]

Outer Wilds

Xbox Game Pass (console) Outer Wilds is a true adventure game, one that requires patience and thoughtful problem solving skills. To say much would risk spoiling its unique cyclical structure, but suffice it to say that as your understanding of its world and history grows, so does the satisfaction of discovery and exploration. Read IGN’s Outer Wilds review.

The Outer Worlds

Xbox Game Pass (console and PC) The Outer Worlds is developer Obsidian Entertainment doing what it does best: a cleverly designed, well-written RPG. Filled with dark humor, top-tier dialogue, and a wealth of player choice in how you build your character, interact with the world, and tackle quests, The Outer Worlds is easily one of the best RPGs of the last few years. Read IGN’s Outer Worlds review.

Resident Evil 7: Biohazard

Xbox Game Pass (console and PC) Resident Evil 7 is one of the best horror games of this generation. By introducing a new protagonist, setting, and first-person perspective, Capcom brought the series' focus back to horror, and in doing so created its best-selling Resident Evil of all time. Game Pass subscribers will want to catch up on the story of Ethan Winters so far, as next year's Resident Evil Village will be a direct sequel to Biohazard. Read IGN’s Resident Evil 7 review. [widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=25-scariest-games-of-this-generation&captions=true"]

Slay the Spire

Xbox Game Pass (console and PC) “Slay the Spire takes some of the best parts of deckbuilding games, roguelikes, and dungeon crawlers and mixes them into a wholly new and extremely satisfying package,” reads IGN’s review. Like the best strategy games, Slay the Spire is easy to pick up but difficult to master, making its hundredth hour as engaging as its first. Read IGN’s Slay the Spire review.

Spiritfarer

Xbox Game Pass (console and PC) Spiritfarer is a gorgeous adventure that blends platforming and town management gameplay with emotional stories of life and death, joy and grief, beginnings and ends. As Stella, you're tasked with befriending spirits and providing them passage to the afterlife. Along the way you'll collect resources, learn recipes, and build homes — all while forging relationships with your passengers, to whom you'll inevitably have to say goodbye. Read IGN’s Spiritfarer review.

State of Decay 2

Xbox Game Pass (console and PC) Perhaps a post-apocalyptic simulation in which humanity was decimated by a plague is not the game you need right now, but State of Decay 2 does provide a fun, zombie-filled co-op sandbox in which you and your friends can connect as you practice social distancing. With the recent release of the Juggernaut Edition, which fixes many of its bugs, overhauls its visuals, and adds a ton of new content (and tutorials) on top of all the already-released expansions, there’s no better time to dive into State of Decay 2. Read IGN’s State of Decay 2 review.

Sunset Overdrive

Xbox Game Pass (console and PC) Sunset Overdrive is probably the most under-appreciated Xbox One console exclusive. Developer Insomniac’s singular vision of the apocalypse is full of color, charm, and comedy. The stylistic shooter also features some of the best traversal mechanics from this generation — only outdone by Insomniac’s followup, Marvel’s Spider-Man. Read IGN’s Sunset Overdrive review. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2014/12/17/why-sunset-overdrive-is-a-game-of-the-year-nominee"]

Tell Me Why

Xbox Game Pass (console and PC) Tell Me Why is a three-chapter narrative adventure from Life Is Strange developer Dontnod Entertainment. It tells the story of twins Alyson and Tyler Ronan, who reunite 10 years after their mother's death and return to their hometown of Delos Crossing, Alaska, to prepare their childhood home for sale. Like Life Is Strange, Tell Me Why features plenty of player choice and juxtaposes a grounded, human story with a touch of the supernatural. Read IGN’s Tell Me Why review.

Wasteland 3

Xbox Game Pass (console and PC) IGN's review called Wasteland 3 "one of the more memorable [tactical RPGs] to date," thanks to its "impressive freedom of choice, its dark and rough humor, and its satisfying combat." It's another strong RPG from inXile, which is encouraging news for Game Pass subscribers, as every future game from the now-Microsoft-owned studio will launch on the service. Read IGN’s Wasteland 3 review.

What Remains of Edith Finch

Xbox Game Pass (console) What Remains of Edith Finch is a story-based adventure in the vein of Gone Home. Clocking in at around two hours, Edith Finch’s multi-generational tale is told through a series of allegorical vignettes. While each vignette follows the final moments of a different ill-fated member of the Finch family, the way in which each story is told is singular. Read IGN’s What Remains of Edith Finch review.

The Witcher III: Wild Hunt

Xbox Game Pass (console) CD Projekt Red’s epic is this generation's best RPGs — and arguably its best game, period. As the famed monster hunter Geralt of Rivia, you’ll explore a massive open world featuring a riveting story, worthwhile side quests, a memorable supporting cast, a bestiary full of creative foes, endless lore, and engaging combat. There’s easily over 100 hours of gameplay in The Witcher 3, and if escapism is what you’re after, this is the best Game Pass has to offer. Read IGN’s The Witcher 3 review. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Those are our picks for the best games you can find on Xbox Game Pass. Let us know in the comments what made your list that might have been left off ours! [poilib element="accentDivider"] Jordan is a freelance writer for IGN.