Xbox Game Pass subscribers are set to receive a fresh batch of titles this July, with Microsoft confirming eight new additions to its popular subscription service. The announcement, made today (July 21), details a second wave of games, featuring four day-one releases, alongside a notable remake of a classic. This influx of new content aims to bolster the service's offering for the latter half of the month.
Among the highlights is 'Halo: Campaign Evolved', which is scheduled to arrive on July 28 for Ultimate and PC subscribers. Other titles joining the service include 'The Planet Crafter', available now for Ultimate, Premium, and PC subscribers, and 'Shift At Midnight', set for release on July 22 for Ultimate and PC. Further additions include 'Hell Is Us' on July 23, 'Mistfall Hunter' on July 30, and 'Consir Cove' on July 31. Looking slightly ahead, 'Heretic + Hexen' and 'Beast Of Reincarnation' are both slated for August 4.
This latest update follows an earlier announcement this month, where ten new titles were initially revealed for Game Pass. However, Microsoft subsequently delayed the planned release of 'Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1+2' indefinitely. While no official reason was given, speculation among fans points to potential music licensing issues or existing contractual agreements between Activision and Sony as possible causes for the unexpected hold-up.
As new games arrive, others are preparing to depart. Microsoft has also confirmed that eight titles will be leaving Xbox Game Pass on July 31. Subscribers will lose access to popular games such as 'Back to the Dawn', 'Celeste', 'Crusader Kings 3', 'Mount & Blade 2: Bannerlord', 'My Friendly Neighborhood', 'Rain World', 'Sniper Elite Resistance', and 'Whiskerwood'.
The Game Pass news arrives during a period of significant change for Microsoft's gaming division. The company recently confirmed price increases for its Xbox consoles, and rumours are circulating that the upcoming next-generation Project Helix console could carry a price tag of at least $1000. Furthermore, new boss Asha Sharma has announced a substantial restructuring programme, which will see 3600 employees lose their jobs and game studios like Double Fine, Compulsion Games, Ninja Theory, and Undead Labs transition to independent status.