Xbox Game Pass Introduces a Game-Changer: Award-Winning Masterpiece from 2016

Highlights

Xbox Game Pass subscribers can now play the award-winning game Firewatch, a narrative-driven adventure that received critical acclaim and several awards in 2016.

Subscribers can anticipate the arrival of two additional day one games, alongside Firewatch, by the end of August. The Texas Chain Saw Massacre game is set to release on August 18, followed by Sea of Stars on August 29. Microsoft has been prioritizing the inclusion of highly acclaimed indie games to Xbox Game Pass, exemplified by the recent addition of Celeste earlier this month and the upcoming release of Gris in September 2023.

Xbox Game Pass has been updated with the inclusion of Firewatch, a highly acclaimed first-person narrative-driven adventure game from 2016, which received numerous awards during its release year. Although the pace of new additions to Xbox Game Pass has been slower in August 2023, there are still several noteworthy games that subscribers can look forward to later this month.

In fact, Xbox Game Pass subscribers can anticipate the arrival of two more day one games before the end of August 2023. The first one is the Texas Chain Saw Massacre game, set to join the Xbox Game Pass subscription service on August 18. Following that, on August 29, Sea of Stars, a nostalgic turn-based RPG, will also be added to the service.

Before Xbox Game Pass subscribers can explore The Texas Chain Saw Massacre and Sea of Stars, they have the chance to immerse themselves in the award-winning adventure of Firewatch. Created by Campo Santo, Firewatch tells the captivating tale of Henry, a fire lookout portrayed by Rich Sommer from Mad Men. Henry embarks on his duty in a serene national park, where solitude reigns supreme. However, he maintains a lifeline of connection with his colleague, Delilah, through a trusty walkie-talkie. As peculiar occurrences begin to unfold, players become entangled in a thrilling mystery that begs to be unraveled. The game astounded critics in 2016, earning acclaim for its exceptional performances, thought-provoking narrative, and engaging atmosphere. Therefore, those yet to experience the wonders of Firewatch should seize the opportunity now that it is included in Xbox Game Pass.

Some Xbox Game Pass subscribers may have already played Firewatch, as the game has previously been available on the service. It was first added in 2021 but was later removed, so it's exciting to see its return.

Recently, Microsoft has been focusing on including critically-acclaimed indie games in Xbox Game Pass. The month of August started with the addition of Celeste, a highly-praised platformer, and it has been confirmed that Gris will be added in September 2023. This could be a deliberate strategy to strengthen the Xbox Game Pass lineup, in addition to the day one releases, or it could simply be a coincidence.

September 2023 is packed with exciting day one releases for Xbox Game Pass. Among them are Lies of P and Payday 3, but the standout game is undoubtedly Bethesda's Starfield, which will be available on Game Pass starting September 6.