Top Picks for Xbox Game Pass in 2025: The Seven New Games You Can't Afford to Miss From This Year
Embark on an unparalleled gaming journey with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, offering access to hundreds of games across consoles, PC, and EA Play. Here are the seven must-play games that stood out in 2022, showcasing a blend of blockbuster exclusives, critically acclaimed genres, and franchises that have shaped Xbox's identity.
- Starfield - Dive into an expansive space RPG experience with Starfield, highly praised for its depth and exploration. This major new release is a must-play for fans of the genre.
- Hi-Fi Rush - Groove to the rhythm with Hi-Fi Rush, a stylish rhythm-action game featuring engaging gameplay mechanics and a strong soundtrack.
- Forza Horizon 5 - Explore Mexico's breathtaking landscapes in Forza Horizon 5, an open-world racing game that offers dynamic events and a wide car selection. Praise has poured in for its vibrant experience.
- Persona 5 Royal - Immerse yourself in the deep storytelling and strategic turn-based combat of Persona 5 Royal, a popular JRPG that made a notable addition to Xbox's library.
- Halo: The Master Chief Collection - Relive the classic Halo shooters with Halo: The Master Chief Collection, a comprehensive remaster offering polished gameplay and multiplayer that defined console FPS.
- Sea of Thieves - Set sail for adventure in Sea of Thieves, a cooperative pirate game that emphasises player interaction, exploration, and emergent multiplayer fun.
- Halo Infinite - Join the latest entry in the Halo franchise with Halo Infinite, featuring a semi-open-world campaign and highly competitive multiplayer. As a flagship Xbox exclusive, it's not to be missed.
These selections offer a diverse range of gaming experiences, from the expansive space RPG of Starfield to the cooperative pirate adventure of Sea of Thieves. They were either specifically highlighted as must-plays on Game Pass or remain highly recommended due to their critical and community reception.
In addition to these standout games, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate also boasts titles like Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, Avowed, The Alters, South of Midnight, and more. However, the above list focuses on the flagship games that were widely regarded as must-play on Game Pass Ultimate in 2022.
As for new releases, keep an eye out for games like Wuchang: Fallen Feathers, a challenging souls-like game where you take on the role of a female pirate warrior in a fictional late Ming Dynasty China. Or delve into the unique emotional feel of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, a turn-based RPG with real-time events, where you play as Gustave on a journey to stop the Paintress.
With such a wealth of games at your fingertips, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate offers an unparalleled gaming experience for players of all tastes.
- To enhance your gaming experience, consider updating your desktop with the latest versions of Microsoft Windows for smoother gaming.
- The Microsoft Edge browser, installed on your PC, can provide game recommendations and useful guides for games like those available on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
- With Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, you can stream Xbox games not just on your console but also on your PC, offering a seamless gaming experience wherever you are.
- If you're a fan of technology gadgets, the Xbox controller's latest model might be a great addition to your gaming setup, providing improved comfort and responsiveness.
- As for next-gen gaming, Xbox Series X offers cutting-edge technology that leverages the power of the latest hardware to bring console gaming to new heights.
