Xbox Game Pass subscribers will soon need to say goodbye to several popular titles as the service prepares for its end-of-March 2025 departures. Ten games are scheduled to leave the subscription service on March 31, including major titles like MLB The Show 24, Monster Hunter Rise, and multiple games from the Yakuza series. These removals represent one of the larger waves of departures from Game Pass this year, giving subscribers just a week to enjoy these games before they’re no longer included with the membership.
The March exodus affects games across various platforms, with titles leaving Game Pass for console, PC, and cloud gaming. Other departures include Hot Wheels Unleashed 2, Lil Gator Game, and Open Roads, showing that both major releases and indie darlings are being removed. Subscribers still have time to play these games or purchase them at a discount before they leave the service.
New Games Arriving on Game Pass in March 2025
This month is looking particularly strong, with Game Pass delivering fresh, exciting titles across all subscription tiers. Headlining the lineup is the much-anticipated 33 Immortals, an innovative action-roguelike experience available now through Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass. What sets this game apart is its massive 33-player co-op raids, where you and fellow damned souls take on fierce, supernatural enemies. You’ll quickly jump into intense battles thanks to the game’s instant matchmaking feature, keeping the gameplay smooth and engaging.
Another standout addition is Octopath Traveler II, launching March 19 for Game Pass Standard subscribers. Building upon the critically acclaimed formula of its predecessor, Octopath Traveler II invites you to explore Solistia through the interconnected stories of eight new protagonists, each with distinct abilities and captivating narratives. With its striking HD-2D visual style and refined turn-based combat mechanics, the game promises dozens of hours of immersive role-playing adventure.
Train enthusiasts and simulation fans won’t be left out, either. Train Sim World 5 rolls into Game Pass Standard on March 19, expanding on the beloved railway series. This installment offers three meticulously crafted routes, delivering an authentic and immersive train-driving experience. Whether you’re a newcomer curious about rail simulation or a seasoned conductor, Train Sim World 5 promises plenty of satisfying challenges.
On March 20, subscribers across all Game Pass tiers (Ultimate, PC, and Standard) will get their hands on the charming, exploration-driven adventure Mythwrecked: Ambrosia Island. You’ll step into the shoes of Alex, a backpacker stranded on a mysterious Greek island filled with amnesiac gods. Your task is to explore the island, rebuild friendships, and unravel the island’s mythical secrets. The game’s laid-back, narrative-driven style is ideal for gamers seeking a thoughtful, engaging experience without the high stakes of intense combat.
Retro gaming fans are also in for a treat with the arrival of the Blizzard Arcade Collection on March 25. Available to subscribers of Game Pass Ultimate, PC, and Standard, this collection revives classic Blizzard hits like The Lost Vikings, Blackthorne, Rock N Roll Racing, and RPM Racing. Beyond just replaying these classics, players can enjoy rare behind-the-scenes interviews, original concept art, and nostalgic soundtracks through the included museum feature.
Finally, Atomfall, launching on March 27 exclusively for Game Pass Ultimate and PC subscribers, is set to captivate fans of survival-action games. Set five years after the infamous Windscale nuclear disaster in England, Atomfall blends gritty realism with intriguing paranormal elements. Players must scavenge, craft, and negotiate through a hostile, radiation-tainted landscape filled with mysterious cults, secret government factions, and supernatural events, creating a rich and complex world perfect for exploration and survival enthusiasts.
Additionally, Game Pass Core subscribers aren’t forgotten. On March 26, they’re getting three exceptional titles: the whimsical exploration adventure Tunic, the intense action-packed Batman: Arkham Knight, and the creature-collecting RPG Monster Sanctuary. This diversified selection ensures there’s something appealing for everyone.
Upcoming Departures From Game Pass (Leaving March 31)
While exciting new games are joining, it’s time to bid farewell to several fan favorites leaving the Game Pass lineup on March 31. These include notable departures such as the critically praised Yakuza series titles: Yakuza 0, Yakuza Kiwami, Yakuza Kiwami 2, and Yakuza: Like a Dragon. If you’ve yet to experience these cinematic, deeply narrative-driven games, now is the time to dive in before they disappear.
Action-packed, family-friendly titles are also leaving the service, including Hot Wheels Unleashed 2, perfect for fast-paced multiplayer racing fun, and the charmingly wholesome Lil Gator Game, a beloved indie gem that’s captured hearts with its relaxing, explorative gameplay.
Additionally, Monster Hunter Rise is departing, meaning it’s your last chance to hunt down massive creatures in one of Capcom’s most accessible and widely acclaimed entries in the legendary series. Other games like MLB The Show 24, the narrative adventure Open Roads, and the stylish tactical action of The Lamplighter’s League will also depart, leaving behind opportunities to pick them up permanently at a discount for subscribers eager to continue playing.
Exclusive Perks for Game Pass Ultimate Subscribers
March continues to bring fantastic perks for Game Pass Ultimate subscribers, sweetening the deal with exclusive content across popular titles. Racing fans will love the EA Sports WRC: Livery & Content Pack, bringing stylish customization to their rally cars. Shooter enthusiasts can elevate their gameplay in War Robots: Frontiers with the Lancelot Rising pack, featuring exclusive pilots, powerful weapons, and special abilities. Fans of Apex Legends can stand out on the battlefield with the stylish Gold Voidwalker Injector Weapon Charm.
Expanding Your Cloud Gaming Collection
Game Pass Ultimate’s cloud-streaming library also expands this month, enabling subscribers to enjoy even more games on the go. Subscribers can access their own purchased titles remotely, streaming games directly from their library to compatible devices. This flexibility continues to strengthen Xbox’s commitment to gaming accessibility, allowing subscribers to play their favorites anytime, anywhere.
With all these new additions and exciting features, Game Pass continues to offer unmatched value, keeping March packed with gaming experiences to suit every preference.
Key Takeaways
- Ten games are leaving Xbox Game Pass on March 31, including MLB The Show 24, Monster Hunter Rise, and several Yakuza titles.
- Game Pass subscribers have one week left to play these titles before they’re removed from the service.
- Members can purchase any departing games at a discount to keep them in their personal library permanently.
Overview of Game Pass Departures on March 24
Xbox Game Pass subscribers will face several major title removals on March 31, 2025, with ten games scheduled to leave the service. These departures include high-profile titles from popular franchises like Yakuza and sports games like MLB The Show 24.
Notable Titles Leaving the Catalogue
MLB The Show 24 stands as one of the most significant departures from the Game Pass library this month. The baseball simulation title has been a key sports offering on the service.
Monster Hunter Rise is also leaving, removing a major action RPG option for subscribers. This title has been popular across PC, console, and cloud gaming platforms within the Game Pass ecosystem.
Several beloved Yakuza series titles are also exiting the service. These Japanese action-adventure games have developed a dedicated following among Game Pass members.
Other departures include:
- Hot Wheels Unleashed 2
- Lil Gator Game
- Open Roads
Implications for Game Pass Members
Subscribers should take note of these departures and plan accordingly. Any in-progress gameplay should be completed before March 31 to avoid losing access mid-game.
Game Pass Ultimate subscribers can take advantage of member discounts if they wish to purchase any departing titles permanently. These discounts typically range from 10-20% off the regular price.
The removal of ten titles in a single month represents one of the larger exodus events for Game Pass in recent memory. While Microsoft regularly rotates content, this month’s departures affect players across all Game Pass tiers – PC, Console, and Ultimate.
New game announcements are expected soon to offset these losses, with several additions already confirmed for late March and early April 2025.
Titles Exiting the Game Pass Collection
Game Pass subscribers will need to say goodbye to several popular titles this month. These departures include major franchise entries and beloved indie games across various genres.
AAA Titles and Fan Favorites
The Yakuza series is facing a considerable loss as multiple titles are set to leave the service. Notably, Yakuza 0, which serves as a prequel introducing players to Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima, will be removed on March 31st. Other Yakuza titles that will also be departing include Yakuza 5, Yakuza Kiwami 2, and Yakuza: Like a Dragon.
Batman: Arkham Knight, the conclusion to Rocksteady’s acclaimed Batman trilogy, will also exit the service. This action-adventure game features the Dark Knight facing his greatest challenge yet.
Monster Hunter Rise is another major departure. The popular action RPG from Capcom has been a fan favorite since joining Game Pass, known for its thrilling hunts and multiplayer features.
Indie Gems and Niche Picks
Tunic, the charming isometric adventure game featuring a fox protagonist, will leave the collection. The game has been praised for its beautiful art style and challenging puzzles.
Solar Ash from Heart Machine is also departing. This stylish action platformer features fluid movement and striking visuals as players explore a surreal world.
The Lamplighter’s League and Mythwrecked: Ambrosia Island are leaving the service as well. Train simulation fans will need to note that Train Sim World 5 is exiting, along with the unique action RPG Octopath Traveler II.
Other indie departures include Mullet Madjack, which offers retro-inspired gameplay with a quirky protagonist.
Impact on Various Gaming Platforms
The departure of games from Xbox Game Pass affects different platforms in unique ways. Users of both PC and console versions will experience changes to their available game libraries, though with some key differences.
PC Game Pass and Cloud Gaming
PC Game Pass subscribers will lose access to all ten games leaving the service on March 31, including popular titles like MLB The Show 24 and Monster Hunter Rise. These removals significantly impact the PC library’s variety.
Players who primarily use cloud gaming through Game Pass Ultimate will also lose streaming access to these titles. This is particularly impactful for cloud users who don’t own high-end gaming hardware and rely on streaming for their gaming experience.
Game Pass Core members on PC won’t feel the same impact since their library is separate and will actually gain three new games on March 26, as announced by Xbox Wire.
Console Gaming on Xbox Series X|S
Xbox Series X|S owners subscribed to Game Pass Standard will notice the loss of several Yakuza titles (including Yakuza 0 and Yakuza Kiwami) which have been popular among console players. This removal reduces the Japanese action-adventure options in the library.
Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 and Lil Gator Game departures will affect family-friendly gaming options on the console platform. Many players may have been mid-playthrough on these titles.
Console players should note that Game Pass Core subscribers will receive different game additions than Standard subscribers. This tiered approach to content management shows Microsoft’s strategy of maintaining different value propositions across subscription levels.
Alternatives to Leaving Titles
Several options exist for Game Pass subscribers who will miss the departing titles. The service maintains a diverse library that can replace most games leaving this month with similar experiences.
Similar Genre Games Inside Game Pass
For fans of Yakuza titles leaving the service, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth remains available, offering the same action-RPG experience set in Japan. Players who enjoyed Monster Hunter Rise can try Monster Train, a roguelike deckbuilder with monster collection elements, or Enter the Gungeon for action-packed runs.
Those disappointed by Lies of P leaving can explore Blizzard Arcade Collection, which includes The Lost Vikings, offering puzzle-platforming challenges. For action game fans missing Evil West, Forza Motorsport provides a different but equally polished experience.
Co-op players affected by departing titles might enjoy games with 33-Player Co-op options still on the service.
Upcoming Additions to Compensate Losses
Microsoft has already announced several new titles coming to Game Pass that may ease the pain of March departures. EA Sports F1 24 will join the service in April, providing racing fans with a new challenge to master.
Several indie titles focusing on Greek Mythology themes are scheduled to arrive in early April, replacing the storyline depth of departing Yakuza games.
For action game enthusiasts losing No More Heroes 3, a new Co-op Action-Roguelike has been announced for the service, though the name remains under wraps.
These upcoming additions should help fill the gaps left by the March departures while introducing subscribers to fresh gaming experiences.
Membership Benefits and Discounts
Xbox Game Pass offers several advantages beyond just access to a rotating library of games. Members receive special perks that make the subscription even more valuable, especially when games are scheduled to leave the service.
Member Discount on Leaving Titles
Game Pass subscribers can purchase games leaving the service at up to 20% off their regular price. This discount allows members to keep playing titles they’ve enjoyed even after they exit the Game Pass catalog.
The 20% discount automatically applies to all games scheduled for removal. This month, the ten games leaving on March 31 include popular titles like MLB The Show 24, Yakuza 0, Yakuza Kiwami, and Hot Wheels Unleashed 2.
Members should check the “Leaving Soon” section in their Game Pass app to see which titles are scheduled for removal in the next two weeks. This gives players time to either finish games or purchase them at the discounted rate.
Game Preview and Early Access for Members
Game Pass Ultimate subscribers receive additional perks including access to Game Preview titles. This program lets members play games still in development before their official release.
Early access to upcoming titles allows players to experience games during their development phase and sometimes provide feedback to developers. Game Preview titles are clearly marked in the Game Pass library.
Ultimate members sometimes receive exclusive early access periods for certain major releases. These early access windows typically range from several days to a week before the general release date.
This benefit adds significant value for dedicated gamers who want to be among the first to try new titles and participate in the development process of upcoming games.
Gaming Community and Industry Reactions
The announcement of 10 games leaving Xbox Game Pass on March 31, 2025 has sparked various reactions across the gaming community. Many subscribers have expressed worry about the future of the service.
MLB The Show 24’s departure has particularly disappointed sports game fans who appreciated having access to the title without purchasing it at full price. Some players noted they hadn’t finished the game yet.
Lil Gator Game and Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 leaving has upset casual gamers who enjoyed these more family-friendly options on the service. Parents have been vocal about losing these accessible games for younger players.
The removal of multiple Yakuza titles has hit hardcore fans the hardest. On social media, many have complained about losing access to Yakuza 0 and Yakuza Kiwami mid-playthrough.
Industry analysts point to Microsoft’s “constant tweaking” of the Game Pass library as a strategic move to optimize the service. One analyst noted:
- Rotating games keeps content fresh
- Encourages players to try games before removal
- Creates urgency for subscribers to play certain titles
Some subscribers have expressed relief that they can purchase departing games at a discount before they leave the service. Others mention they might need to be more selective about which games they start based on removal schedules.
Monster Hunter Rise players appear most vocal about finishing endgame content before the March 31 deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Xbox Game Pass subscribers often have questions about games leaving the service. Here are answers to common concerns regarding March 2025’s departures, retention options, and how removals affect gameplay.
Which titles are departing from the Game Pass library as of March 24?
According to the latest information, ten games will be leaving Xbox Game Pass on March 31, 2025. The departing titles include MLB The Show 24, Monster Hunter Rise, and multiple Yakuza titles.
Additional games scheduled for removal include Lil Gator Game, Hot Wheels Unleashed 2, and Open Roads. Earlier in March, titles like Evil West, Lies of P, No More Heroes 3, and Solar Ash were also removed from the service.
Microsoft typically announces departures a couple of weeks before removal, giving subscribers time to finish games before they leave the library.
How can subscribers retain access to games that are being removed from Game Pass?
Subscribers who wish to continue playing departing games can purchase them at a discounted price. Xbox Game Pass members receive up to 20% off games currently in the Game Pass catalog.
This discount allows players to permanently add these titles to their library before they leave the service. The discount also applies to any DLC or add-ons at 10% off the regular price.
Purchases must be made while the game is still available in the Game Pass library to receive the discount.
Are new games being added to the Xbox Game Pass to replace those that are leaving?
Yes, Microsoft regularly adds new games to Xbox Game Pass as others depart. The service typically receives multiple new additions each month across console, PC, and cloud gaming platforms.
New releases are often announced via Xbox Wire posts or through the Xbox Game Pass social media channels. First-party Microsoft titles typically arrive on Game Pass on their launch day.
The rotation of games helps keep the library fresh while maintaining a selection of over 100 titles available to subscribers at any given time.
What is the impact of removed games on players’ existing progress and achievements within those games?
When a game leaves Game Pass, player progress and achievements remain intact. All earned achievements stay on players’ profiles permanently, even after a game is removed from the service.
Save data is preserved in Xbox cloud storage. If a player later purchases the game, they can resume from where they left off with all progress intact.
However, players will lose access to play the game through Game Pass once it’s removed unless they purchase it separately.
Does Microsoft plan to discontinue the Xbox Game Pass service in the foreseeable future?
Microsoft has shown no indication of planning to discontinue Xbox Game Pass. The subscription service remains a central part of Xbox’s business strategy going forward.
The company continues to invest in the service by acquiring studios and securing new content. Recent expansions to Game Pass include cloud gaming capabilities and the integration with EA Play.
Microsoft executives have repeatedly emphasized the importance of Game Pass to their gaming ecosystem in public statements and financial reports.
How does the removal of games from Game Pass affect the availability of DLC and in-game purchases?
When a base game leaves Game Pass, any DLC or in-game content that players have purchased separately remains in their library. However, players can’t access this content without owning the base game.
If players have made in-game purchases or bought additional content, they’ll need to purchase the base game to continue using these extras after it leaves Game Pass.
Microsoft recommends that players who have invested in DLC for Game Pass games consider purchasing the base game at the discounted member price before it leaves the service.
