If you’re searching for the best Xbox Game Pass games to dive into right now, you’re in luck. Microsoft Gaming has curated an extensive selection, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The service operates on a rotating basis, providing access to a vast library of games that can be downloaded and played instantly. With both recent blockbusters and classic hits vying for your attention, choosing which games to prioritize in your queue can be overwhelming. That’s where I come in.

Here are 25 top-notch Game Pass titles that are worth your time. This list includes not only major first-party titles from the latest Xbox Series X games and exclusives but also lesser-known indie treasures you might have missed. Whether you’re into action-packed shooters or immersive role-playing games, this lineup caters to diverse tastes and genres.

For those with an active Game Pass subscription, whether on console or PC, these are the 25 best games to download and start playing today.

Top Xbox Game Pass Choices to Play Right Now

25. Indiana Jones and the Great Circle

Developer: MachineGames
Game Pass: Xbox + PC

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, released in 2024, is a must-play adventure game set in 1937. Follow Indy as he embarks on a global quest to prevent an ancient power from ending up in the wrong hands. This game is packed with puzzles, dangers, and breathtaking cinematics that immerse you in the experience.

The game is a standout RPG on Game Pass, showcasing MachineGames’ knack for compelling storytelling (reminiscent of Wolfenstein: The New Order) with a perfect blend of engaging gameplay and fun.

RELATED: Indiana Jones and the Great Circle review: “Indy’s greatest adventure in over three decades”

24. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey

Developer: Ubisoft Quebec
Game Pass: Xbox + PC

Assassin’s Creed Odyssey invites you on a sprawling journey through Ancient Greece, transforming from a mere outcast to a legendary figure. This action-packed title offers a deep narrative, epic battles between Athens and Sparta, and exhilarating naval combat.

With its rich story and challenging gameplay, Odyssey stands out as a pinnacle of the Assassin’s Creed franchise.

RELATED: Assassin’s Creed Odyssey review: “A depth unmatched since The Witcher 3”

23. Microsoft Flight Simulator

Developer: Asobo Studio
Game Pass: Xbox + PC

Experience the globe from your living room with Microsoft Flight Simulator. Perfect for aspiring pilots or those who simply love breathtaking visuals, this game offers a peaceful yet complex simulation of flying.

Playable on both Xbox and PC with controls suited for gamepads and keyboards, Microsoft Flight Simulator offers a stunning new perspective on our world.

22. Mafia: Definitive Edition

Developer: Hangar 13
Game Pass: Xbox, PC, Cloud

Mafia: Definitive Edition throws you into the life of Tommy Angelo, a cab driver turned reluctant mobster in 1930s Chicago. This gritty narrative-driven action-adventure stands out as one of the top historical fiction games available on Xbox Game Pass.

Expect thrilling car chases, intense shootouts, and an atmospheric city that captures the essence of the era. With Mafia: The Old Country on the horizon, now is the perfect time to dive into the series.

21. Evil West

Developer: Flying Wild Hog
Game Pass: Xbox, PC, Cloud

In Evil West, you play as Jesse, a cowboy and vampire hunter who could give Red Dead Redemption 2’s Arthur Morgan a run for his money. Set in a supernatural Wild West, this game offers exhilarating melee combat alongside firearms and a lasso.

With a blend of action and light RPG elements, Evil West delivers an unforgettable adventure.

 RELATED: Evil West review: “A masterpiece of beat-em-up action”

20. Sea of Stars

Developer: Sabotage Studio
Game Pass: Xbox + PC

Sea of Stars pays homage to classic 16-bit RPGs, offering a nostalgic yet fresh adventure. Developed by Sabotage Studio, this game expands on traditional RPG exploration and world-building, providing an engaging experience that lasts around 40 hours.

RELATED: Sea of Stars review: “An RPG feast for the senses”

19. PowerWash Simulator

Developer: FuturLab
Game Pass: Xbox + PC

PowerWash Simulator turns a simple task into a surprisingly soothing experience. This simulation game lets you clean various dirty objects, providing a zen-like atmosphere that’s unexpectedly addictive.

It’s not just about cleaning; it’s about the satisfaction of seeing something go from dirty to sparkling before your eyes.

RELATED: How PowerWash Simulator became my unexpected meditation tool

18. Still Wakes the Deep

Developer: The Chinese Room
Game Pass: Xbox Series X, PC

For fans of horror, Still Wakes the Deep offers a chilling experience set on an oil rig, reminiscent of the classic ’80s film The Thing. You play as Caz McCleary, a worker who finds himself in a nightmarish scenario with a malevolent force aboard the rig.

With spine-tingling audio and intense hide-and-seek gameplay, this game is a must-play for horror enthusiasts.

RELATED: Still Wakes the Deep review: “An exquisitely terrifying slice of horror”

17. Hi-Fi Rush 

Developer: Tango Gameworks
Game Pass: Xbox Series X, PC

Hi-Fi Rush emerged as an unexpected hit, offering a rhythmic action game that combines vibrant visuals with catchy tunes. Play as Chai, who fights enemies in sync with music, creating a dynamic and engaging gameplay experience.

With its unique comic book-inspired aesthetics and a soundtrack you’ll want to download, Hi-Fi Rush is a standout title on Game Pass.

RELATED: Hi-Fi Rush review: “A rhythmic adventure that dances to its own beat”

16. Vampire Survivors

Developer: Poncle
Game Pass: Xbox + PC

Don’t overlook Vampire Survivors; this seemingly simple game offers an addictive challenge. Your goal is to survive against waves of enemies until dawn, using straightforward controls and light roguelike mechanics.

The game’s addictive nature keeps you coming back for “just one more” round, making it a fantastic addition to your Game Pass library.

RELATED: The addictive charm of Vampire Survivors: A minimalist masterpiece

15. Age of Empires 4

Developer: Relic Entertainment
Game Pass: PC, Xbox series X

Age of Empires 4 builds on the legacy of its predecessors, offering a deep real-time strategy experience that remains accessible to newcomers. This installment is available on PC and recently on Xbox, allowing a new generation of players to discover its strategic depth.

RELATED: Age of Empires 4 review: “A modern classic that pays homage to its roots”

14. It Takes Two

Developer: Hazelight Studios
Game Pass: Xbox + PC

It Takes Two is a groundbreaking co-op game that blends action, adventure, and puzzles in unique ways. Designed for two players, each level introduces new mechanics and challenges that keep the gameplay fresh and exciting.

Recognized as one of the best co-op experiences available, it’s a must-play on Game Pass.

RELATED: It Takes Two review: “A co-op masterpiece that’s greater than the sum of its parts”

13. Inside

Developer: Playdead
Game Pass: Xbox + PC

Inside is a hauntingly memorable platformer that stands out with its minimalist design and compelling narrative. Simple yet effective puzzles and top-notch control mechanics guide you through a mysterious and atmospheric world.

Developed by Playdead, known for their masterful storytelling, Inside is a journey that will captivate you until the very end.

RELATED: Inside review: “A beautifully bleak experience that resonates”

12. Lies of P

Developer: Neowiz Games
Game Pass: Xbox Series X, Xbox One, PC

Lies of P reimagines the story of Pinocchio as a dark steampunk action-RPG. In this version, Pinocchio is a mechanized robot navigating the dangerous city of Krat. The game features challenging boss battles, customizable weapons, and a gothic narrative that twists the familiar fairy tale into something new.

With elements that soften the punishing nature of typical Soulslike games, Lies of P is accessible yet challenging, making it a standout title in the Game Pass lineup.

RELATED: Lies of P review: “A fresh take on the Soulslike genre that doesn’t pull its punches”

11. The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim

Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
Game Pass: Xbox + PC

Skyrim needs little introduction, being one of the most iconic RPGs ever. It’s available on Game Pass for those who wish to lose themselves in its vast world of dragons and adventure yet again.

As we await The Elder Scrolls 6, revisiting Skyrim remains a rewarding experience, with its enduring appeal evident more than a decade after its initial release.

RELATED: Skyrim at a decade: Bethesda reflects on the longevity of a gaming legend

10. Deathloop

Developer: Arkane Studios 
Game Pass: Xbox + PC

Deathloop, the 2021 Game of the Year, showcases Arkane Studios’ expertise in creating immersive simulations with rich narratives. Trapped in a time loop, your mission is to eliminate eight targets in one day to escape.

The intricately designed island of Blackreef is a playground of mystery, packed with opportunities to explore, gather intel, and fight for your freedom.

RELATED: Deathloop review: “A uniquely thrilling experience that redefines the shooter genre”

9. Mass Effect: Legendary Edition

Developer: BioWare
Game Pass: Xbox + PC

Mass Effect: Legendary Edition compiles three epic RPGs into one remastered collection. Experience the interstellar saga that has you navigating complex galactic politics and leading a team of heroes to save the galaxy.

The enhancements in this edition smooth out the rough edges from the original games, making it an essential experience for both newcomers and veterans.

RELATED: Mass Effect Legendary Edition review: “The definitive way to experience the acclaimed series”

8. Hollow Knight

Developer: Team Cherry
Game Pass: Xbox + PC

As Hollow Knight: Silksong approaches, now’s the time to experience the original Hollow Knight, a masterpiece in the Metroidvania genre. This challenging exploration-based game features hand-drawn artwork and has been enhanced with balance tweaks and quality-of-life improvements.

Hollow Knight offers a compelling challenge that’s as rewarding as it is beautiful.

7. Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 

Developer: Ninja Theory
Game Pass: Xbox Series X, PC

Blurring the lines between cinema and gaming, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 is a visually stunning journey that combines real-world Icelandic landscapes with rich Nordic lore. This sequel enhances everything from its predecessor, from graphics to gameplay, making it one of the most visually impressive games on Xbox Series X.

The blend of combat, exploration, and puzzle-solving ensures a memorable adventure that ranks among the best on Game Pass.

RELATED: Hellblade 2 review: “A breathtaking fusion of story and gameplay”

6. Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus

Developer: MachineGames
Game Pass: Xbox + PC

Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus is a thrilling shooter set in an alternate history where the Nazis won World War II. Join the resistance in this high-octane adventure, which combines intense action with a deep, character-driven story.

MachineGames excels in delivering a narrative that’s as compelling as its gameplay, ensuring a rollercoaster ride of emotions and excitement.

RELATED: Wolfenstein 2 review: “A bold, action-packed narrative that keeps you on the edge of your seat”

5. Stardew Valley

Developer: ConcernedApe
Game Pass: Xbox + PC

Stardew Valley is a celebrated farming simulator that starts you off with a small plot of land and basic tools, challenging you to build a thriving farm. This game grows on you as you get into the rhythm of daily tasks and community interactions.

With continuous updates enhancing its features, Stardew Valley remains the pinnacle of its genre, offering a deeply satisfying farming experience.

RELATED: The enduring charm of Stardew Valley: Why it remains a fan favorite

4. Halo: The Master Chief Collection

Developer: 343 Industries / Bungie
Game Pass: Xbox + PC

Halo: The Master Chief Collection is an extensive package that includes six Halo games, chronicling the epic saga of Spartan-117 and Cortana. From their first journey in Halo: Combat Evolved to their last on the Xbox 360 in Halo 4, this collection offers a comprehensive Halo experience.

Featuring enhanced multiplayer with cross-platform support, it’s a must-have for fans and newcomers alike.

RELATED: Halo: The Master Chief Collection review: “A monumental tribute to the Halo franchise”

3. Forza Horizon 5

Developer: Playground Games
Game Pass: Xbox + PC

Forza Horizon 5 continues to lead the pack in racing games with its stunning representation of Mexico’s diverse landscapes and a fleet of meticulously detailed vehicles. Whether racing against various modes of transportation, exploring with friends, or customizing cars, Forza Horizon 5 offers something for every racing enthusiast.

RELATED: Forza Horizon 5 review: “A spectacular racing experience that sets a new standard”

2. Minecraft

Developer: Mojang 
Game Pass: Xbox + PC

Minecraft is a global phenomenon that encourages creativity and collaboration. Its open-ended sandbox world allows players to build and explore their own creations, making it more than just a game—it’s a platform for imagination and social interaction.

RELATED: Minecraft review: “A gateway to a universe of unlimited possibilities”

1. Starfield

Developer: Bethesda Game Studios 
Game Pass: Xbox + PC

Starfield is the ultimate Game Pass title—an expansive RPG that lets you explore not just a massive world, but an entire universe. If you love the freedom and depth of games like Skyrim and Fallout, Starfield will captivate you with its boundless exploration and rich character customization.

Prepare to invest countless hours in this vast, open-world adventure.

RELATED: Starfield review: “Bethesda’s most ambitious

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