Xbox Game Pass recently posted a tweet highlighting upcoming games coming to their subscription service. Although no official release date has been revealed yet, the various games announced show a lot of love to the indie gaming scene and the majority of fans seem enthused about the chance to play.
Offered by Microsoft Gaming, the Xbox Game Pass grants users access to a library of video games for download and play on Xbox consoles, PC, and mobile.
Xbox Game Pass Ignites Indie Excitement
Though some gamers are skeptical of the reveal, most are thankful for the opportunity. And the Xbox Game Pass Twitter account offers a hand at pitching the indie title to gamers.
so much heat in here and we're not even a kitchen
— Xbox Game Pass (@XboxGamePass) April 29, 2024
One of the standout titles is 33 Immortals, an upcoming co-op action-roguelike. 33 Immortals is developed by Thunder Lotus Games, the developers behind indie sleeper hits like Sundered and Jotun.
33 Immortals is one I've had my eye on for awhile! Also so cool to see Commandos again.
— ✮EWZine✮(Or maybe just X) (@TheEWZine) April 29, 2024
The objective of 33 Immortals is to battle against monster hordes, overcome massive bosses, and ultimately challenge God for eternal life. You can quickly join the action with the “pick-up and raid” matchmaking feature without any extensive setup.
Each playthrough is distinct due to the randomized enemies, obstacles, and rewards. The player can tailor their character with a diverse array of weapons powered by sins and virtues, each with its unique playstyle.
With hundreds of upgrade combinations and character builds to choose from, the possibilities for customization are limitless. A closed beta for 33 Immortals is scheduled for May 24th which can be signed up for at Thunder Lotus’ official website.
Another game that drew attention from Twitter users is Commando Origins, a real-time tactics game scheduled to release for PC, PS5, and Xbox. The Early Access game is a prequel to the original Commando series and acts as a prequel, showing the formation of the elite unit during World War 2.
I grew up playing Commandos games and I was so excited to see we are going back. Can't wait for the beta.
— Mixed Marshal Art (@MixedMarshalArt) April 29, 2024
The strategic issue of orders and focus on stealth-based gameplay essentially makes Commando Origins a top-down Metal Gear Solid or X-Com experience.
The puzzle game Humanity which initially saw release for PC and PlayStation VR is also included. The game offers a unique twist on the puzzle genre as it blends action, platforming, and real-time strategy elements. Plus you get to play as an adorable Shiba Inu dog which is a bonus in the eyes of most people on the internet.
Divided Opinions on Xbox Game Pass’s Latest Lineup
However, not everyone was all too pleased about the lineup, with some users voicing complaints about a lack of quality in the choices presented.
3 PC games?
This is why Xbox players feels like they're being treated as second rate… no, third rate consumers
— Axel Carnage (@NotAxelCarnage) April 29, 2024
Some even went as far as threatening cancelling their Game Pass subscription in favor of signing up for PSN, PlayStation’s rival subscription service.
Still no mention of Jedi Survivor on Cloud. PlayStation Plus is starting to look real good
— _LakeShow_ (@_MambaForever_) April 29, 2024
However, these naysayers likely are not Xbox Game Passes’ core audience. While the PlayStation Network offers many high-quality well-established PlayStation exclusives, the Xbox Game Pass offers a more diverse library, including indie games, AAA titles, and day-one access to Xbox Game Studios releases.
Not to mention the recent problems PSN+ has faced after a tier restructuring which sought to elicit more choice amongst gamers seemed to have resulted in more complaints. Limiting PS3 gaming to a streaming service, lack of PC support, and a library skewed towards PlayStation exclusives drove some gamers right into the arms of the Xbox Game Pass.
Regardless, it doesn’t appear Xbox is too concerned about the negative responses and the announcement is a great boon for fans of indie gaming.
What do you think? Let us know in the comments!
