Xbox Game Pass managed to execute an electrifying shadow drop in January 2023 with the release of Tango Gamework’s rhythm-based brawler Hi-Fi RUSH. Squad up, slay some intimidating monsters, and express your style in Monster Hunter Rise on Xbox Game Pass. With heaps of quality-of-life changes and subtle refinements to the classic formula, Monster Hunter Rise stands as a satisfying successor for longtime fans and a comfortable starting point for new players.

The delicate dance of tracking and hunting wyverns, giant monkeys, minotaur, and countless other species with friends has never felt better. Monster Hunter Rise also supplies a staggering amount of weapon types that cater to various playstyles. Monster Hunter Rise enhances the mobility and verticality of previous Monster Hunter titles with the welcomed addition of mountable allies called Palamutes and the fantastical grappling capabilities of Wirebugs. Thankfully, this squad-based action game dropped straight into Xbox Game Pass when it hit Xbox consoles earlier this year. To the chagrin of some console players, the latest entry in the fan-favorite series initially launched as a PC and Nintendo Switch exclusive.

Despite these surface-level comparisons, the story of Lana overcoming wretched machines and celebrating the beauty of life establishes Planet of Lana as a must-play title on Xbox Game Pass.Ĭapcom’s premiere giant-beast slaying franchise continues to grace Xbox Game Pass with the addition of Monster Hunter Rise.

On a basic level, Planet of Lana is a 2D puzzle platformer fans of Limbo and Inside will undoubtedly appreciate. The stunning visuals, lush soundtrack, and superb voice acting elevate the narrative weight and allow you to immediately connect with the protagonist. Scared and alone, a new friend supplies a sliver of optimism in a bleak time of tragedy and helps Lana search for answers about the faceless army wreaking havoc on her once-peaceful home world. Planet of Lana tells the emotional story of a young girl named Lana desperately grappling with the sudden abduction of her sister and all other life on the planet. If you want a break from the chaotic explosions of Gears 5 or Halo Infinite, this is a mysterious adventure worthy of your time. Planet of Lana from Wishfully and Thunderful Publishing packs heart, wonder, and beauty into one satisfyingly short package. However, the service has also remarkably curated an outstanding collection of powerful independent games. Xbox Game Pass consistently delivers big-budget blockbusters on day one. Available on: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC, Cloud

Best games on xbox game pass