Highlights
Microsoft has denied rumors that Octopath Traveler 2 will be available on Xbox Game Pass, ending the speculation before it gains momentum.
The rumor originated from an interview featuring Xbox VP Sarah Bond, who mentioned the release of a different game on Xbox Game Pass without mentioning Octopath Traveler 2.
Though the exact cause of the confusion remains uncertain, it is possible that the announcement of Octopath Traveler 2 coming to Xbox consoles was mistakenly connected to Xbox Game Pass announcements.
Microsoft has put an end to rumors that Octopath Traveler 2 will be included in Xbox Game Pass for its upcoming release. The rumor of the 2.5D game joining the subscription service in 2024 began circulating on Wednesday, but Microsoft has now officially debunked it. There has been no confirmation of Octopath Traveler 2 being available on Xbox Game Pass at this time. The speculation originated from an interview with Xbox VP Sarah Bond, where she discussed the inclusion of Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name in Xbox Game Pass, but made no mention of Octopath Traveler 2. Nonetheless, this conversation sparked the rumors.
Hours after the interview with Sarah Bond was published by Xbox Wire Japan, Microsoft issued an official retraction. All references to Octopath Traveler 2 being included in Xbox Game Pass were removed and an editor's note was added for clarification. While the language of the statement does not explicitly deny the possibility of Octopath Traveler 2 coming to Xbox Game Pass, it is evident that any suggestion of it being available on the platform is either incorrect or premature.
The confusion surrounding this scenario is likely due to the announcement of Octopath Traveler 2 being released on Xbox consoles in 2024. While the game is currently available on PC, PS4, PS5, and Switch, it has taken time to bring it to Xbox consoles, resulting in a delay for Octopath Traveler 2's Xbox release. It is possible that the news of Octopath Traveler 2's release on Xbox was unintentionally included in Xbox's Xbox Game Pass announcements. However, just because Microsoft cannot currently announce Octopath Traveler 2's availability on Xbox Game Pass does not mean it won't happen in the future. Microsoft is actively working on expanding its partnership with Square Enix, and it remains to be seen how this collaboration will develop. The inclusion of more Square Enix games in Xbox Game Pass would greatly enhance the platform.
Xbox Game Pass typically doesn't announce new games too far in advance, including those planned beyond October. For those interested in having Octopath Traveler or its sequel included in Xbox Game Pass, it's important to communicate this to Xbox now. Please note that Octopath Traveler 2 is currently accessible on PC, PS4, PS5, and Switch.
Source: Pure Xbox