Xbox Game Pass continues its momentum in May 2025 with a standout lineup of titles that blend blockbuster hits, imaginative indies, and nostalgic throwbacks. Whether you’re a JRPG fan, into tactical shooters, or just want to kick back with a chill sim, Game Pass has something for you this month. Here’s everything you need to know about what’s arriving, what’s leaving, and why these new entries are worth your time.
🎮 New Xbox Game Pass Games – May 2025 Highlights
1. Metaphor: ReFantazio
Release Date: May 29
Why It’s a Big Deal: From the legendary creators of Persona 5 and Shin Megami Tensei, Atlus’ Metaphor: ReFantazio is one of the most anticipated RPGs of 2025. With a combat system that blends real-time exploration and turn-based depth, plus stunning painterly visuals and social mechanics similar to the Persona series, this game is a milestone for fantasy JRPGs on Xbox.
Key Features:
- Political fantasy world-building and branching storylines
- Unique Archetype system for combat roles
- Music by Shoji Meguro (Persona series composer)
It’s been praised as “JRPG of the Year material,” even rivaling Final Fantasy VII Rebirth in storytelling and innovation.
2. Monster Train 2
Available Now
Why It’s Worth Playing: The original Monster Train carved out a cult following with its clever blend of roguelike deckbuilding and tower defense mechanics. Monster Train 2 ups the ante with new clans, deeper synergy mechanics, and expanded meta-progression. If you like Slay the Spire, this is a must-play.
What’s New:
- Multi-faction deck building
- Cross-platform leaderboards
- Twitch integration for interactive runs
3. Tales of Kenzera: Zau
Release Date: May 22
Why It’s Unique: Developed by Surgent Studios and published by EA Originals, this Metroidvania is based on African mythology and voiced by The Walking Dead’s Abubakar Salim. The emotional core revolves around grief and healing, wrapped in rhythmic, ability-based combat.
Gameplay Highlights:
- Elemental mask-switching for combat and traversal
- 2.5D visual design with deep narrative integration
- Cultural soundtrack rooted in Bantu traditions
4. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl
Release Date: May 22
Why It Matters: After numerous delays, STALKER 2 is finally real—and terrifying. Built in Unreal Engine 5, this Eastern European post-apocalyptic shooter offers emergent AI, dynamic environments, and tense survival mechanics.
Notable Features:
- Open-world sandbox with branching quests
- Realistic ballistics and survival elements
- Mutant factions and supernatural anomalies
5. Tom Clancy’s The Division 2
Release Date: May 27
Why It’s Still Relevant: Ubisoft’s tactical looter-shooter gets new life on Game Pass. With its fully explorable D.C. setting, deep co-op mechanics, and regular seasonal updates, The Division 2 remains one of the most content-rich shooters available.
Added Value in 2025:
- Warlords of New York expansion included
- Endgame raids and PvP modes
- Cross-save and cross-play enabled
6. To a T
Release Date: May 28
Why It Stands Out: This quirky adventure from Keita Takahashi (Katamari Damacy, Wattam) is one of the strangest and most wholesome games you’ll ever play. You control a teen stuck in a T-pose as they navigate daily life—yes, really.
Expect:
- Slice-of-life storytelling with oddball humor
- Mini-games and exploration in a small town
- Accessibility-focused design and heartwarming narrative
7. Spray Paint Simulator
Release Date: May 29
Why It’s Relaxing Fun: This new sim lets you create art or complete odd jobs using realistic spray-paint physics. A cross between PowerWash Simulator and House Flipper, it’s oddly addictive and perfect for casual gamers.
Features Include:
- Build your business through contracts
- Unlock tools, colors, and stencils
- Photo mode for showing off your creations
🕹️ Retro Classics Collection Now Available
Xbox Game Pass has partnered with Antstream Arcade to drop over 50 retro Activision games from the 1980s and ‘90s into the cloud. These include titles like:
| Title | Original Platform | Genre |
|---|---|---|
| Pitfall! | Atari 2600 | Platformer |
| MechWarrior 2 | PC | Simulation |
| River Raid | Atari 2600 | Shooter |
| Kaboom! | Atari 2600 | Arcade |
These old-school gems now feature modern enhancements like cloud saves, leaderboards, and achievement support, giving them a second life on new-gen hardware.
⏳ Leaving Game Pass on May 31
Be sure to check out the following titles before they cycle off the service:
- Cassette Beasts – Monster fusion RPG with a deep retro vibe
- Remnant 2 – Procedural co-op shooter with Soulslike elements
- Humanity – Experimental puzzle-platformer from Enhance Games
- Firework – Atmospheric Chinese horror adventure
- Slayers X: Terminal Aftermath: Vengeance of the Slayer – Irreverent boomer shooter parody
🔥 Why Game Pass Keeps Winning
With an ever-evolving catalog of high-profile games, day-one indie gems, and retro content, Xbox Game Pass isn’t just keeping pace—it’s leading the way in subscription gaming. May 2025 proves once again why the service is essential for gamers of all stripes. Whether you’re into avant-garde indies, AAA storytelling, or old-school classics, Game Pass is delivering variety and value in every genre imaginable.
Our Favorite Game Pass Games
Xbox Game Pass offers a treasure trove of gaming experiences for players to discover. With hundreds of titles available across various genres, finding the perfect game can feel overwhelming at times. The subscription service continues to add new releases regularly, making it an excellent value for gamers looking to expand their horizons.
You’ll find some truly exceptional games on Xbox Game Pass that shouldn’t be missed, from critically acclaimed indie darlings to blockbuster triple-A experiences. Whether you’re into action-adventure, role-playing games, or unique puzzle experiences, Game Pass has something to suit your gaming preferences. The service has transformed how many people approach gaming, allowing for risk-free exploration of titles they might otherwise have passed over.
1: Resident Evil 2 Remake
Resident Evil 2 Remake has earned its place as one of the best additions to Xbox Game Pass. This reimagining of the 1998 classic brings the horror of Raccoon City to life with modern graphics and gameplay that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
The game features an over-the-shoulder perspective that replaces the fixed camera angles of the original. This change makes the experience more immersive as you navigate the dark hallways of the Raccoon City Police Department.
What makes this game special is how replayable it becomes with each run. You can experience the story from two different perspectives – Leon Kennedy and Claire Redfield – each offering unique weapons and story elements.
The Microsoft Store version is Play Anywhere compatible, giving you the flexibility to continue your game across Xbox and PC. This feature alone makes it worth trying if you own both platforms.
If you’re new to the series, don’t worry. The game serves as an excellent entry point with its polished controls and engaging narrative. The balance between resource management and combat creates the perfect tension that defines survival horror.
After finishing RE2, you might want to try RE4 Remake or RE3 Remake next, as they continue to build on the formula that makes this game so compelling. The progression between titles feels natural and rewarding.
2: Yakuza: Like a Dragon
Yakuza: Like a Dragon stands out as one of the best RPGs available on Xbox Game Pass. Unlike previous games in the series, this entry completely transforms the gameplay from action-brawler to a turn-based RPG.
You’ll follow the story of Ichiban Kasuga, a lovable underdog with a heart of gold who finds himself betrayed by his yakuza family. After being left for dead, Ichiban must build a new life and find answers about his past.
What makes this game special is its perfect blend of serious drama and absurd humor. One minute you’re engaged in an emotional story about loyalty and redemption, the next you’re battling men in diapers with a giant fork.
The combat system draws inspiration from classic JRPGs, with Ichiban imagining enemies as fantastical creatures due to his love of Dragon Quest. Your party members each have unique abilities and job classes you can customize.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon has been called one of the best things to happen to the Yakuza series, with Game Pass introducing many new players to this beloved franchise. The city of Yokohama feels alive with countless side activities and mini-games to discover.
You don’t need prior knowledge of the series to enjoy this game, making it a perfect entry point. The game delivers an engaging 40+ hour experience that’s both heartfelt and wildly entertaining.
3: Persona 3 Reload
Persona 3 Reload has quickly established itself as one of the most popular titles on Xbox Game Pass. The game has already reached the top 50 games on the service, showing just how much players are enjoying this reimagined classic.
This captivating remake brings the pivotal Persona series entry into the modern era with stunning graphics and improved features. You’ll experience the original story that helped define the JRPG genre, now completely reborn for today’s gaming standards.
When you start the game, you’ll immediately notice the cutting-edge visuals and signature stylish UI that Atlus has become known for. The modernized quality-of-life improvements make this version much more accessible than the original.
If you have Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, you get an added bonus – the Expansion Pass is included for free. This gives you access to all the additional content without any extra cost.
The game is shorter than Persona 5 Royal, making it a perfect Game Pass title. You can complete the main story without the long-term commitment required by some other JRPGs in the series.
Combat is turn-based and strategic, with the unique Social Link system allowing you to build relationships during the day and fight shadows at night. This gameplay loop creates an addictive experience that will keep you coming back for more.
4: Batman Arkham Knight
Batman Arkham Knight is a standout title on Xbox Game Pass that deserves your attention. This final chapter in Rocksteady’s Arkham trilogy brings the caped crusader’s story to an epic conclusion with improved gameplay mechanics and stunning visuals.
The game introduces the Batmobile as a playable vehicle, adding a new dimension to your crime-fighting arsenal. You can tear through the streets of Gotham City and engage in tank battles against enemy forces, making this a true ultimate Batman experience.
Combat feels more refined than previous entries in the series. The free-flow fighting system has been enhanced, allowing you to seamlessly transition between taking down thugs and incorporating gadgets into your combos.
Gotham City itself is beautifully realized and larger than ever. The rain-slicked streets and neon lights create an atmospheric playground for your adventures as the Dark Knight.
Many players consider this the best entry in the franchise. The game features the most refined gameplay, best graphics, and most fun side missions of any Arkham title.
If you enjoyed previous Batman games like Arkham Origins, you’ll likely appreciate the improvements in Knight. The Premium Edition is available on Game Pass, giving you access to all additional content.
The main story offers a compelling mystery alongside excellent performances from the voice cast. Side missions feature classic Batman villains that provide engaging diversions from the main plot.
5: Doom Eternal
Doom Eternal takes everything that made Doom 2016 great and cranks it up to eleven. The game puts you in control of the unstoppable Doom Slayer as you battle demons across amazing environments never before seen in the series.
The combat is incredibly fast-paced and rewards your aggression. You’ll need to constantly move, shoot, and use your chainsaw to replenish ammo while glory kills provide much-needed health pickups during intense battles.
Powered by idTech 7 engine, Doom Eternal delivers stunning visuals that run smoothly even during the most chaotic fights. The game’s pulse-pounding soundtrack composed by Mick Gordon perfectly complements the action, pushing you to fight harder and faster.
The campaign offers a solid challenge that will test your skills and reflexes. You’ll face classic demons alongside new threats that require different strategies to defeat effectively.
If you enjoyed earlier Doom games, you’ll appreciate how Eternal builds on that foundation. The game includes an epic single-player campaign that pits you against demons across multiple dimensions.
Game Pass gives you access to the standard edition, which provides plenty of content to enjoy. Many consider it one of the best-rated games on the service, especially if you love first-person shooters.
You’ll find Doom Eternal delivers one of the most satisfying combat experiences available. The game’s blend of speed, strategy, and brutality creates a uniquely thrilling adventure that’s well worth your time on Game Pass.
6: Hi-Fi Rush
Hi-Fi Rush stands out as one of the most enjoyable games available on Xbox Game Pass. This rhythm-based combat game delivers pure gaming fun that many players compare to beloved classics like Mario Odyssey.
When you jump into Hi-Fi Rush, you’ll experience a unique blend of action and music. The game synchronizes combat moves with the beat of the soundtrack, creating a satisfying flow that feels both challenging and rewarding.
The colorful art style and engaging characters make this game visually appealing. You’ll find yourself drawn into its vibrant world from the first moment you start playing.
Hi-Fi Rush has earned its place among the best-rated Game Pass titles, joining other fan favorites like Terraria and Vampire Survivors. Its unique gameplay mechanics help it stand apart from other action titles.
The developers continue to support the game with updates. A recent patch added new cosmetics, fixed bugs, and improved controller support for PC players. This ongoing support enhances the overall experience.
You’ll appreciate the game’s accessibility. Even if you’re not typically good at rhythm games, Hi-Fi Rush offers options to help you enjoy the experience without frustration.
If you’re looking for something fresh and exciting in your Game Pass library, Hi-Fi Rush delivers a memorable experience that combines music, action, and style in a package unlike anything else available.
7: Spyro Reignited Trilogy
The Spyro Reignited Trilogy has become one of the top played GamePass games, delivering a nostalgic blast from the past with modern visuals. This collection includes remastered versions of the original three Spyro games that captivated players on the PlayStation 1.
You’ll find the gameplay holds up remarkably well today. The charming purple dragon’s adventures retain their magic while benefiting from stunning visual upgrades. Each world has been meticulously recreated with vibrant colors and detailed environments.
The controls feel responsive and intuitive, making platform jumping and flame-breathing attacks a joy to execute. All three games offer a good challenge without becoming frustrating, perfect for both newcomers and returning fans.
Collectathon elements remain intact, with gems, eggs, and dragon statues scattered throughout colorful worlds. The satisfaction of reaching 100% completion in each game provides excellent value for your GamePass subscription.
The trilogy’s success alongside Crash Bandicoot on GamePass signals strong support for these classic franchises on Xbox. Performance is smooth on modern Xbox systems, maintaining steady framerates throughout.
Music and sound effects have been thoughtfully enhanced while preserving the original charm. You can even switch between the remastered soundtrack and the original compositions if you prefer the classic tunes.
The Spyro Reignited Trilogy represents fantastic value on GamePass, offering dozens of hours of quality platforming across three complete games.
8: Avowed
Avowed is one of the newest additions to Xbox Game Pass that you should definitely check out. This fantasy RPG from Obsidian Entertainment has been making waves since its release, delivering an immersive experience in a richly detailed world.
Players have been glued to this game like few others in recent memory. The joy of playing shines through in its engaging combat and exploration systems, making it easy to lose track of time while adventuring.
What might surprise you is that Avowed is much longer than initially thought, giving you plenty of content to enjoy. This extended playtime means more value for your Game Pass subscription and more opportunities to dive into its storylines.
Many consider Avowed to be a fantastic win for Xbox, showcasing what exclusive titles can bring to the platform. The game stands as a testament to Obsidian’s skill at crafting engaging RPG experiences.
You’ll find Avowed listed among the best Xbox Game Pass games to play in March 2025, cementing its position as a must-try title. Its recent updates have also added community-requested features, improving the experience further.
While some players note it may be missing a few systems that are staples in other RPGs, the overall package is still very highly regarded. You’ll find a beautiful world waiting for you to explore, with engaging characters and storylines throughout.
9: Crusader Kings 3
Crusader Kings 3 stands out as one of the most engaging strategy games available on Xbox Game Pass. This medieval dynasty simulator blends grand strategy with deep roleplaying elements to create a truly unique gaming experience.
When you start playing, you’ll take control of a medieval ruler and guide your dynasty through generations. The game gives you freedom to shape your character’s personality, skills, and relationships as you navigate the complex politics of medieval Europe.
Unlike many strategy games, Crusader Kings 3 focuses on people rather than just nations. Your character’s traits, relationships, and decisions all matter greatly. You might find yourself arranging marriages for political gain or plotting against rival nobles.
The Xbox Game Pass version offers the complete experience with an interface that works well on console. If you enjoy playing across platforms, the Game Pass subscription makes sense if you play on both Xbox and PC.
Many critics consider it a superb strategy game and a great RPG rolled into one. The learning curve can be steep, but the tutorial helps you get started. Some players find they need additional help, and there are many helpful guides online.
The game offers incredible depth and replayability. You can start as a mighty king or a humble count, each providing a different experience. Your decisions shape the medieval world around you in meaningful ways.
10: Cities: Skylines
City building simulators can be incredibly satisfying, and Cities: Skylines stands as one of the best in the genre. This award-winning management game lets you plan, design, and manage your own city from the ground up.
You’ll start with a small plot of land and gradually expand as your population grows. The game gives you control over zoning, road placement, taxation, public services, and transportation systems. Every decision you make affects how your city develops.
Game Pass includes the Xbox One Edition with its core city-simulation gameplay. You’ll face unique challenges like managing traffic flow, keeping citizens happy, and balancing your budget while watching your metropolis flourish.
The remastered version is available for Xbox Series X|S, featuring enhanced graphics and performance. The game comes with several expansion packs that add weather systems, natural disasters, and green initiatives.
Many Game Pass subscribers consider Cities: Skylines among their favorite base-building games. The satisfaction of watching your tiny town grow into a sprawling metropolis is unmatched.
Cities: Skylines offers incredible depth without overwhelming you. The intuitive controls make city planning accessible even if you’re new to the genre. You can easily sink dozens of hours into perfecting your urban design and solving the various challenges of urban development.
Understanding Xbox Game Pass
Xbox Game Pass is a subscription service that gives you access to hundreds of games for a monthly fee. The service has changed how gamers play and discover new titles since its launch.
How It Works
Xbox Game Pass works like a digital library for games. You pay a monthly subscription fee, and in return, you get access to a large collection of games that you can download and play. There are different tiers of subscriptions: Game Pass for Console, Game Pass for PC, and Game Pass Ultimate, which combines both plus adds cloud gaming.
The service regularly adds new games each month, while some titles leave the service. Microsoft’s first-party games arrive on Game Pass on their release day, giving you immediate access to new titles from Xbox Game Studios.
You can download games directly to your console or PC, and with Ultimate, you can even stream certain games to mobile devices. There’s no limit to how many games you can install, aside from your storage space.
Benefits of Xbox Game Pass
The biggest benefit is value. For about $10-17 per month (depending on your tier), you get access to hundreds of games that would cost thousands to buy individually. This includes everything from indie gems to blockbuster AAA titles.
Game Pass also lets you try games you might otherwise skip. Many subscribers report discovering favorite games they never would have purchased outright. The service features a diverse library including must-play titles like Hellblade, Hi-Fi Rush, and Mass Effect.
For families, one subscription can serve multiple gamers in your household. Game Pass Ultimate members also receive additional perks like Xbox Live Gold for online multiplayer, EA Play membership, and exclusive discounts if you decide to permanently purchase games you’ve tried.
Choosing Games on Xbox Game Pass
Xbox Game Pass offers hundreds of titles across various genres, making selection both exciting and potentially overwhelming. Finding the perfect games requires understanding what’s available and how to identify quality titles that match your preferences.
Genres Available
Xbox Game Pass features an impressive variety of game genres to suit different gaming styles. You’ll find AAA blockbusters alongside indie gems spanning nearly every category imaginable.
Action and adventure games are well-represented with titles like Control and Hellblade. If you enjoy strategy, Crusader Kings 3 offers deep political simulation while Cities: Skylines caters to city-building enthusiasts.
RPG fans can explore vast worlds in Starfield and Avowed. Puzzle lovers should check out Cocoon and The Case of the Golden Idol for unique mind-bending challenges.
Horror, racing, sports, and family-friendly titles round out the catalog. The service regularly adds new games while removing others, so checking the Xbox Game Pass app frequently helps you stay current on available titles.
Evaluating Game Quality
When choosing what to play next, consider consulting best-rated lists available on the Xbox store. These ratings can help you identify standout titles like Fallout: New Vegas and The Walking Dead.
Look for games with:
- Strong user reviews (4+ stars)
- Critical acclaim from gaming publications
- Recent updates for live service games
You can also find recommendations from gaming communities like Reddit’s Xbox Game Pass subreddit, where users highlight “must-play” experiences such as Hi-Fi Rush, Hollow Knight, and Palworld.
Don’t overlook older titles. Many classic games on the service have been enhanced for modern hardware. The “Most Popular” section in the Game Pass app can also indicate which games are currently resonating with other subscribers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Xbox Game Pass offers a diverse library with games spanning multiple genres and platforms. Users frequently seek guidance on finding the best titles for their specific gaming preferences and setup requirements.
What are the highest-rated titles available on Xbox Game Pass currently?
The highest-rated titles on Xbox Game Pass include several standout games that have received critical acclaim. Resident Evil 2 Remake stands at the top with its masterful blend of horror and action elements.
Persona 3 Reload has earned exceptional ratings for its compelling character development and turn-based combat system. This JRPG offers over 100 hours of gameplay with its school-life simulator and dungeon-crawling mechanics.
Doom Eternal has also received outstanding reviews for its fast-paced gameplay and stunning visuals. Critics have praised its intense combat and level design.
Which games on Game Pass offer the best multiplayer experience?
Sea of Thieves delivers an excellent cooperative pirate adventure where you can team up with friends to sail the high seas. The game continues to receive regular updates with fresh content.
Halo Infinite’s multiplayer component offers both casual and competitive modes that honor the series’ legacy while introducing new mechanics. The free-to-play multiplayer is enhanced with Game Pass perks.
Back 4 Blood provides thrilling cooperative zombie-slaying action for up to four players. Its card-based progression system adds strategic depth to the multiplayer experience.
What narrative-driven games on Game Pass are most recommended?
Yakuza: Like a Dragon tells an emotional story about loyalty and redemption in the Japanese criminal underworld. The game’s well-written characters and surprising plot twists make it a narrative standout.
Life is Strange: True Colors offers a touching story about empathy and community with its supernatural elements serving the emotional narrative. Its branching storylines give weight to your choices.
Death’s Door presents a melancholic yet beautiful tale about a soul-reaping crow. The game combines tight combat with a poignant story about mortality.
How does the inclusion of EA Play titles enhance the Xbox Game Pass library?
The EA Play integration adds significant value with titles like Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order and the Mass Effect Legendary Edition. These AAA experiences expand the Game Pass library with beloved franchises.
Sports fans benefit greatly from access to the latest EA Sports titles like FIFA and Madden NFL. These games are typically updated annually, giving subscribers access to current sports simulations.
EA Play also brings various Battlefield and Need for Speed titles that would otherwise require separate purchases. This enhances the member benefits by providing more variety across multiple genres.
Are there any critically acclaimed shooters available on Xbox Game Pass?
Batman Arkham Knight, while primarily an action-adventure game, features excellent third-person shooting mechanics. The combat system blends melee with gadget-based ranged attacks for a satisfying experience.
Doom Eternal stands as the premium first-person shooter on Game Pass with its lightning-fast combat. The “push-forward” combat encourages aggressive play rather than taking cover.
Halo: The Master Chief Collection offers six complete Halo campaigns and their respective multiplayer modes. This collection represents some of the most influential shooter games in the medium’s history.
What selections from Xbox Game Pass are well-suited for PCs with lower performance capabilities?
Indie gems like Hollow Knight and Stardew Valley run smoothly on modest hardware while delivering exceptional gameplay. These titles prioritize art direction and game design over graphical intensity.
Older titles like Fallout: New Vegas and The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion are perfectly playable on lower-end systems. These RPGs offer hundreds of hours of content without demanding the latest hardware.
Tunic and Inside are excellent puzzle-platformers with stylized visuals that don’t tax your system. Their artistic approaches mean they can run well on PCs that might struggle with more demanding games.
