Must-Play PC Game Pass Gems of June 2023

Xbox Game Pass has firmly established itself as the ultimate subscription service for gamers, thanks to its longstanding reputation. Microsoft consistently adds new games to the service every month, ensuring that subscribers always have fresh content to explore. While PC Game Pass may sometimes be overshadowed by its console counterpart, it provides an excellent alternative for those who prefer gaming on their computers rather than on an Xbox.

Both Xbox Game Pass and PC Game Pass offer a wide range of games, reflecting Microsoft's commitment to serving its entire customer base, not just console owners. However, it is worth noting that there are differences between the two services, including some exceptional titles that are exclusively available on the PC version. So, what are the top games on PC Game Pass?

PC Game Pass has recently added several notable games, including FIFA 23, Dordogne, Supraland: Six Inches Under, and Railway Empire 2, among others. These additions cater to a range of gaming preferences and offer a diverse selection for players. Additionally, for those who prefer physical Xbox copies, convenient links to the games' Amazon pages are provided.

Guilty Gear Strive

Added to PC Game Pass in March 2023, Guilty Gear Strive marks the latest installment in Arc System Works' anime fighting franchise. While it may have been overshadowed by the popularity of Dragon Ball FighterZ, Guilty Gear holds its ground as the developer's flagship title, and Strive proves its mettle among the top contenders in the fighting game genre. Merging style and substance seamlessly, this game delivers fast-paced and skill-driven combat that offers immediate enjoyment while presenting a challenging learning curve for those seeking mastery.

Early entries in the series lacked effectiveness in acquainting newcomers with the intricacies of the games' mechanics. However, Strive demonstrates notable progress in this aspect. Nevertheless, there remains a considerable learning curve, especially for those intending to delve into the online mode.

Hi-Fi Rush

Hi-Fi Rush, developed by the creators of The Evil Within and Ghostwire: Tokyo, made a surprise debut on January 25, 2023, delighting Game Pass owners. This hack and slash game takes players on a thrilling action-packed adventure centered around music. Chai, the protagonist, unexpectedly finds himself with a music player embedded in his chest, enhancing his abilities when timed to the beat. This unique mechanic proves particularly useful when facing the game's diverse and challenging bosses.

Featuring stunning cyberpunk environments and meticulously crafted characters, Hi-Fi Rush captivates players with its visually striking aesthetics. The game not only looks impressive but also delivers an immersive and captivating audio experience. The combat system initially provides a satisfying experience and gradually introduces more complexity, while the platforming elements offer enjoyable moments of respite from intense battles.

Atomic Heart

Garnering significant pre-release anticipation, Atomic Heart faced challenges in meeting expectations, although it does not qualify as a subpar game. Mundfish's first-person shooter takes place in an open-world inspired by the Soviet Union in the 1950s, showcasing a unique backdrop and striking visuals. While not extraordinary, the gunplay notably improves as players unlock the majority of their abilities.

Ultimately, Atomic Heart may not be remembered as one of the top games of 2023, which is a challenging accomplishment for any developer. Nevertheless, it is a noteworthy project that seamlessly integrates with Xbox Game Pass, offering an affordable opportunity for those who might have otherwise overlooked the first-person shooter genre to give it a try.

Cassette Beasts

Warhammer 40,000: Darktide

Those who have experienced the Warhammer: Vermintide series will undoubtedly be eager to delve into the exhilarating world of Warhammer 40,000: Darktide. This highly anticipated release builds upon the foundations of its predecessors, taking the gameplay to new heights. In an intriguing twist, players are thrust into the role of prisoners, compelled to navigate treacherous zones teeming with relentless enemies and fulfill missions on behalf of their captors. The core mechanics remain faithful to Vermintide, enabling players to embark on thrilling missions and collaborate with others to combat swarms of bloodthirsty creatures and formidable bosses.

With a multitude of unlockable weapons and a diverse selection of playable characters, Warhammer 40,000: Darktide proves to be the ideal release for satisfying the cravings of FPS enthusiasts. Particularly appealing to those seeking an adrenaline-fueled experience of slashing and shooting their way through hordes of adversaries.

Shadowrun Trilogy

Shadowrun's video game history can be traced back to 1993, when it was first adapted from a tabletop RPG. After a period of inactivity, the franchise made a triumphant comeback in 2013 with Shadowrun Returns, a grid-based tactical RPG that skillfully captured the captivating science-fantasy world of the source material.

Building on the success of Shadowrun Returns, two expansions/sequels were released: Dragonfall and Hong Kong. These games not only continue the narrative in their own unique ways but also further refine the core gameplay mechanics introduced by their predecessor. While all three RPGs are exceptional experiences, they are particularly well-suited for playing on PCs rather than consoles.

Stranded Deep offers players the opportunity to fulfill their Cast Away fantasy, making it a perfect fit for the survival genre. After surviving a plane crash and finding themselves stranded in the middle of the ocean, players must explore the surrounding islands in order to increase their chances of survival. The game follows the typical survival formula, with players scavenging for resources, crafting essential tools and shelter, and constantly monitoring their vital meters.

While Stranded Deep has a definitive conclusion, its focus lies more on the adventure than the final outcome. With a randomly generated map for every playthrough, the game offers endless replayability, even though the core experience remains consistent across different campaigns.

Ghostwire: Tokyo

Ghostwire: Tokyo, the atmospheric first-person game developed by Tango Gameworks, has finally made its way to the Xbox family after a year of being a PS5 console exclusive. The game, now available on Game Pass, takes players on a chilling journey through a haunting version of Tokyo, where the protagonist is thrust into the role of a spirit hunter to combat the malevolent forces that have befallen the city. With the streets teeming with ghosts, players must rely on their unique abilities to navigate through the challenges that unfold in the game's gripping storyline.

Despite receiving some criticism, Ghostwire: Tokyo is generally well-received among gamers. Its captivating setting and stunning visuals are commendable, with the highlights of the campaign often centered around exploration rather than intense action. While the combat system may have its flaws and occasional clunkiness, it still manages to deliver moments of inspiration and excitement.

Loop Hero

The game introduces a unique challenge as it unfolds in a world plagued by widespread amnesia, where every loop commences with a clean slate. Throughout their journey, players acquire cards that can be strategically placed on the map to recollect specific locations, thereby transforming the entire level. However, each card presents both advantages and drawbacks, requiring players to meticulously navigate and strike a delicate balance in order to overcome each stage's boss.

Potion Craft: Alchemist Simulator

Potion Craft: Alchemist Simulator has had a successful launch, with its availability on PC Game Pass attracting even more attention to niceplay's project. The game focuses on the art of potion crafting through alchemy, providing an accessible yet deep experience. Players are tasked with managing a shop and fulfilling various customer requests, which can vary from straightforward to challenging.

In addition to gathering resources, the alchemist must experiment with different ingredients to create the desired potions. This process emphasizes strategic thinking rather than relying solely on trial and error. Potion Craft offers a relaxing gameplay experience that still demands players' attention.

Pentiment

Pentiment takes players on a captivating journey to 16th Century Bavaria, offering an immersive experience that combines narrative-driven gameplay with intricate puzzles. The game boasts stunning and artistic graphics, complemented by exceptional sound design, creating a truly engrossing landscape. Players will undoubtedly remain enthralled by the game's captivating storyline and engaging gameplay, making Pentiment a must-play adventure.

Players who are fans of games like Minecraft and Terraria should definitely give Grounded a try. This unique adventure takes players into a backyard setting, where they are shrunk down to a tiny size. In order to survive, players must face off against swarms of dangerous bugs and gather different materials to improve their weapons and increase their chances of staying alive.

As they progress, players will also discover a captivating storyline that takes them on a quest to collect specialized computer chips scattered throughout the backyard. Whether they choose to tackle this adventure solo or team up with up to three friends, there's plenty of fun to be had in Grounded.

A Plague Tale: Requiem

Asobo Studio has released the highly anticipated sequel to 2019's A Plague Tale: Innocence, and Requiem proves to be just as exceptional as its predecessor. Once again taking on the role of Amicia, players are thrust into a perilous journey to find a cure for Hugo, the protagonist's younger brother, amidst the backdrop of the French Inquisition and the devastating black plague.

A Plague Tale: Requiem remains faithful to the foundation set by its predecessor while enhancing several aspects. The sequel introduces a significantly enhanced combat system, offering Amicia a broader range of choices. Moreover, the storyline is truly captivating and unfolds with great finesse.

Persona 5 Royal

Persona 5 Royal, once deemed unlikely, has now become a reality with its availability on PC, Xbox consoles, and Game Pass. This turn-based JRPG by Atlus possesses not only style and substance but also an abundance of content that will keep subscribers engaged for several months. As a spin-off of Shin Megami Tensei, Persona combines the elements of dungeon crawling, monster collecting, and social simulation mechanics, all of which seamlessly come together to create a truly captivating experience.

The narrative of Persona 5 Royal revolves around the Phantom Thieves as they embark on a mission to infiltrate people's Palaces, which serve as symbolic representations of their negative thoughts. Divided into multiple arcs, the story of P5R is not only gripping but also intricately crafted, leaving players fully engrossed in its well-written plot.

Sid Meier's Civilization 6

With the confirmation of Civilization 7 currently in progress, now is the opportune moment to delve into Firaxis' previous installment of their highly acclaimed strategy series. As implied by its name, Civilization centers around guiding a society from its humble beginnings to becoming a dominant global force. There are numerous avenues to achieve this objective, as the game affords players the choice to prioritize military might or, for instance, technological advancements.

Civilization 6 continues to stand strong in 2023, just as it did on its debut day. With its abundant mechanics and profound depth, the game manages to strike a balance that appeals to both experienced players and newcomers alike.

Prodeus

Prodeus on PC Game Pass offers a nostalgic nod to the glory days of '90s FPS games. With its pixel graphics and lack of a complex storyline, Prodeus immerses players in a straightforward shooting experience. Players must navigate through generously sized levels, battling monsters with weapons like shotguns and pulse rifles. Additionally, hidden tokens are scattered throughout each stage, which, when collected, unlock new abilities and more powerful weapons. This game mechanic encourages players to revisit levels and thoroughly explore to ensure they acquire all the necessary items.

Prodeus offers pure and unadulterated fun, which is sometimes all a game needs to succeed. In a market flooded with retro shooters, Prodeus stands out and holds its own against its competitors, making it one of the top FPS games available on PC Game Pass.

Planet Of Lana

Planet of Lana, a story-driven platformer released in May 2023 and exclusively available on Game Pass, follows the journey of its protagonist as she faces an alien invasion threatening her home. Teaming up with an adorable mascot, Lana embarks on a mission to save her planet, venturing through breathtaking landscapes while evading the watchful eyes of the enemy. By intentionally adopting a slow pace, Planet of Lana prioritizes its captivating storyline, immersive atmosphere, and challenging puzzles, deviating from the expectations of a traditional 2D platformer.

Although its gameplay may not be groundbreaking, the game excels in delivering a compelling narrative led by memorable characters and visually stunning graphics. With a manageable playtime of a single weekend, Planet of Lana perfectly strikes the balance for players seeking a fulfilling experience within this style of project.

Monster Hunter Rise, originally an exclusive for the Nintendo Switch, has expanded to other platforms, including PC Game Pass. Those familiar with Capcom's franchise will find themselves right at home with this 2021 release, especially if they have previously played Monster Hunter World. However, Rise manages to establish its own identity and stands strongly on its own merits. By opting for smaller scale maps and missions compared to its predecessor, Rise trims away unnecessary elements to highlight the core appeal of Monster Hunter: the combat.

Although Rise does have a storyline, it primarily serves as a guide to lead players towards the end game, where the focus shifts to grinding monsters in order to obtain better loot. This loot can then be utilized to take on even more formidable monsters, creating a satisfying and enduring gameplay loop that has proven successful for decades, with Rise being no exception.

Amnesia: Collection, Rebirth, & The Bunker

Amnesia: Collection, which includes The Dark Descent and A Machine for Pigs, was added to PC Game Pass just in time for Halloween 2022. The Dark Descent is a highly influential first-person horror game that takes place in a castle. In addition to uncovering the protagonist's backstory and solving puzzles, players must also manage their sanity meter.

A Machine for Pigs often gets overshadowed by The Dark Descent, but it stands on its own as an intense and unforgettable horror experience. The franchise has seen the recent additions of Amnesia: Rebirth and The Bunker, both of which offer unique settings and provide decent survival horror gameplay. While they may not quite reach the heights of The Dark Descent, they are still deserving of playthroughs.

Mount & Blade 2: Bannerlord

Mount & Blade 2 offers a unique and ambitious gaming experience by combining elements from management, strategy, and action RPG genres. Despite a few minor drawbacks, the overall gameplay is highly enjoyable. With its expansive map, Bannerlord allows players to start as mere commoners and rise to become powerful rulers, with the journey being shaped by trade, warfare, and interpersonal connections.

For newcomers to the franchise, Mount & Blade 2 may initially feel overwhelming, especially if they haven't played the previous installments. However, it stands out as a distinct and unparalleled addition to the PC Game Pass library.

Metal: Hellsinger

The PC Games Pass offers a wide selection of Doom titles, catering to fans of fast-paced, first-person shooters. However, for those seeking a similar experience to the iconic Doom franchise, Metal: Hellsinger is worth exploring. This unique game rewards players for synchronizing their gunplay with an immersive soundtrack, making it a perfect choice for any FPS enthusiast. The execution of this innovative concept is truly commendable.

Metal: Hellsinger is a fast-paced experience, with the campaign only taking about five hours to complete. As a result, it is an excellent choice for PC Game Pass players who are looking for a game that can be finished within a weekend or even in just a single day.

Assassin's Creed Odyssey

Two Point Campus

The sequel to Two Point Hospital, known as Two Point Campus, is a highly acclaimed PC Game Pass game. It presents players with the task of managing a university that offers a wide range of courses, from the ordinary to the extraordinary. While the game maintains its signature humor, it also demands a serious approach from its players, as even minor oversights and mistakes can result in utter chaos and failure.

Management simulation games can be overwhelming for newcomers, particularly those that inundate their screens with countless statistics and resources. However, Two Point Campus distinguishes itself by offering a slightly more welcoming experience compared to other entries in the genre. This game provides players with an opportunity to ease into the gameplay mechanics before presenting them with more formidable challenges. Nevertheless, it is important to note that Two Point Campus still presents its own fair share of difficulties.

Disney Dreamlight Valley

Disney Dreamlight Valley was a challenging project to define prior to its Early Access release. Taking place in a Mickey Mouse-themed setting, the game centers around the player's mission to revitalize a village by persuading Disney's beloved characters to relocate there. Although the game is still in the development stage, the current version offers an enjoyable and fulfilling experience.

Ultimately, the extent to which individuals will appreciate this title largely depends on their enthusiasm for Disney and Pixar properties. Even those who are not fans may find enjoyment in Disney Dreamlight Valley, as it offers a well-designed life simulation with exciting adventure elements like quests. However, a pre-existing affection for these characters undeniably enhances the overall experience.

Inside, developed by Playdead, is a haunting 2.5D platformer that follows the journey of a young boy through a dystopian realm. With its enigmatic narrative and emphasis on creating an atmospheric experience rather than relying on plot twists, this indie gem from 2016 is a testament to exceptional level and environmental design.

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In terms of gameplay, Inside may not offer anything particularly groundbreaking, but its puzzles are executed with such finesse that it undeniably distinguishes itself. This is a project that demands to be experienced by anyone with an interest in gaming, making Inside one of the top PC Game Pass games.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge

Shredder's Revenge brings the beloved heroes in a half-shell back to life in a modern beat 'em up game that pays homage to classic arcade favorites like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time. This thrilling adventure goes beyond mere nostalgia, offering a fresh take on the side-scrolling brawler genre while staying true to the charming essence of '90s gaming.

With a roster of six distinct playable characters and 16 stages inspired by the TMNT franchise, Shredder's Revenge is a must-play for die-hard fans and PC Game Pass subscribers alike.

Ni No Kuni: Wrath Of The White Witch Remastered

Wrath of the White Witch employs a creature-capturing mechanism reminiscent of Pokemon, yet distinct in its approach to obtaining familiars compared to Game Freak's popular franchise. The JRPG's captivating narrative and impressive cutscenes contribute to its overall excellence.

Immortality

The game Immortality, available on PC Game Pass, offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Divided into three movies, players are immersed in a thrilling quest to unravel the disappearance of Marissa Marcel, a missing actress. To solve this enigma, players can pause scenes and interact with characters or objects to gather crucial information.

What sets Immortality apart is not only its uniqueness but also its effectiveness. The narrative takes unexpected turns, delving into realms of secrecy, horror, and tragedy. The acting performances are superb, adding an extra layer of quality to the overall experience.

Ninja Gaiden: Master Collection

The availability of Ninja Gaiden Black and Ninja Gaiden 2 on Xbox Game Pass was a privilege for subscribers, leaving PC owners without access to these thrilling hack and slash games. However, the introduction of the Ninja Gaiden: Master Collection has rectified this situation, allowing a broader range of platforms to enjoy the incredible franchise.

Tunic pays homage to classic adventure games like The Legend of Zelda, embracing its influences and delivering a satisfying experience in its 2022 release. Players are immersed in a beautifully crafted world, where they must navigate through dungeons, gather new weapons and items, and explore the vast land.

Despite its charming visuals, Tunic presents a formidable challenge. Players will face not only standard enemies but also a variety of challenging bosses. This delightful indie game strikes a perfect balance between modern gameplay and honoring the beloved classics of the past. Tunic is undoubtedly a game that should not be overlooked.

Mortal Kombat 11

Released on Game Pass in December 2021, Mortal Kombat 11 marks the most recent addition to NetherRealm Studios' critically acclaimed fighting series. Since its debut in 2011, MK has consistently impressed with its thrilling and exaggerated storylines, immersive gameplay, and extensive online features.

MK11 offers a distinct combat experience by significantly slowing down the pace, emphasizing the importance of precise and strategic movements rather than mindless button-mashing. While the competitive aspect of the game may seem overwhelming, especially considering its two-year presence in the gaming community, the single-player campaign ensures an enjoyable and manageable experience that can be completed over a weekend.

Hollow Knight: Voidheart Edition

Hollow Knight stands out in the crowded indie scene of Metroidvanias, as it truly captures the essence and magic of the genre. Taking place in the captivating realm of Hallownest, players are tasked with guiding a knight through a mesmerizing and eerie world. Filled with formidable foes, hidden surprises, and a rich lore, Hollow Knight immerses players in a journey that prioritizes exploration and uncovering the unknown.

Unlike many games that offer excessive handholding, Hollow Knight encourages players to venture into the unknown and discover its secrets on their own. While the game's mechanics are not overly complicated, its combat system is exceptionally well-done, delivering a satisfying experience that remains enjoyable throughout the entire campaign.

Weird West

An isometric RPG set in a supernatural-inspired version of the American Frontier, Weird West leads players through five distinct storylines. Each storyline introduces a new protagonist as the player assumes their role, adding a unique twist to the game. This quirky concept is seamlessly integrated into the game's universe, allowing each narrative to stand out and captivate players.

Alongside its intriguing storyline and captivating cast of characters, Weird West delivers thrilling shootouts that resemble a more relaxed twin-stick shooter. Although it may be a bit overwhelming at certain moments, this game successfully incorporates various elements and provides a unique experience that sets it apart from other titles on PC Game Pass.

Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard 40th Anniversary Edition

Forza Horizon 5

Playground has consistently delivered exceptional games in the Forza Horizon series, and their latest release, Forza Horizon 5, takes this excellence to new heights. Set in the vibrant country of Mexico, the game offers players a sprawling and diverse map to explore, complete with thrilling races, a wide range of unlockable cars, exhilarating jumps, and challenging missions.

Visually captivating and featuring an impressive soundtrack, Forza Horizon 5 stands out as an unparalleled arcade racing game. With its reputation for longevity, this 2021 release is expected to provide drivers with years of enjoyment as they explore Mexico's diverse biomes.

Halo: The Master Chief Collection

The Halo franchise had a significant break from PC gaming after its first release with Combat Evolved. However, in 2019, the Master Chief Collection was finally made available on PC, allowing players to experience the entirety of Spartan-117's story and enjoy a complete range of multiplayer options, just like their Xbox counterparts.

The MCC remains a highly valued addition to the Game Pass on Xbox, and its move to PC does not diminish its status. Each game in the collection remains impressive and is regarded as some of the greatest console FPS games ever made.

Halo Infinite was released simultaneously on both Xbox and PC platforms, with the added benefit of multiplayer being freely accessible to all players. The single-player campaign made its debut on December 8, 2021, and it represents a significant improvement compared to its predecessor, Halo 5: Guardians. Alongside the traditional missions commonly found in Halo games, Infinite introduces open-ended sections that allow players to embark on side-quests and delve into the depths of Zeta Halo.

The gunplay in both single-player and multiplayer remains incredibly satisfying. With a substantial and lengthy campaign, players can immerse themselves in Halo Infinite for hours on end. Additionally, the online modes guarantee that fans will continue to enjoy the game for years to come. It's worth noting that a PC Game Pass subscription is not necessary to access Halo Infinite's multiplayer.

Among Us

Playing multiple rounds of Among Us with a group of friends is an unbeatable experience. In this game, players take on the role of either a hapless Crewmate, tasked with completing objectives and surviving, or an Imposter, who must eliminate all Crewmates by either murdering them or manipulating them to accuse innocent players.

Among Us has become a global sensation by combining elements of player communication, deductive reasoning, and bravado, resulting in an exhilarating and entertaining experience. This indie game has captured the attention of players worldwide, and it's easy to understand why. Whether played on a computer or mobile device, Among Us has become the ultimate choice for large gatherings of friends.

Wasteland 3

Wasteland 3 caters to fans of the original Fallout series who were disappointed by the departure from its core CRPG roots. InXile Entertainment deliberately targeted this market by reviving the franchise's spiritual ancestor. Players once again take control of a squad of Desert Rangers, this time in the harsh and frozen wasteland of post-apocalyptic Colorado. With its intense turn-based action and intricate RPG mechanics, Wasteland 3 is a must-play for any die-hard fan of the genre.

Deep Rock Galactic

Deep Rock Galactic offers a thrilling and exhilarating cooperative shooting experience without compromising on depth or action. With a choice of four unique classes of deep-diving Dwarves, players embark on exciting missions to explore intergalactic caves and extract valuable resources.

Of course, these caverns are typically occupied by ravenous extraterrestrial creatures that have a preference for consuming Dwarf flesh — but fear not, as a formidable arsenal of weapons and modified mining equipment can easily overcome this challenge. Deep Rock Galactic provides an exhilarating experience and is an essential choice for weekend gaming groups and committed co-op partners.

Pillars Of Eternity 2: Deadfire

No Man’s Sky

Thanks to consistent updates, No Man’s Sky has undergone a remarkable transformation since its initial release. It has evolved into a living title on PC, benefitting greatly from the regular updates that have propelled its resurgence.

Players have the opportunity to embark on a celestial journey, venturing through an infinite number of planets at their own pace. They can construct their own bases and diligently search for valuable resources throughout their exploration. The immense freedom provided by the vastness of No Man's Sky's universe is truly awe-inspiring. The ability to traverse the farthest corners of space without leaving the comfort of one's gaming chair undeniably positions this game as an essential addition to the Xbox Game Pass library.

Gears 5 Game Of The Year Edition

The Gears 5 Game of the Year Edition offers a comprehensive package, including the base game, the Hivebusters expansion, 30 days of Boost, and the Halo: Reach character pack. With an evolution from its predecessor, Gears 5 seamlessly combines intense third-person shooter gameplay with elements of open-world exploration, reminiscent of the acclaimed Halo Infinite, though on a smaller scale.

Taking on the role of Kait Diaz, the new protagonist, Gears 5 delves deep into her intricate connection with the Locust. In addition to Gears 5, PC Game Pass users can also enjoy Gears of War: Ultimate Edition, Gears of War 4, and the Gears Tactics spin-off.