With the launch of the Xbox Series X and S, Microsoft has ensured that its subscription service is bigger and better than ever to coincide with the next-generation of gaming. This means that if you happen to be an Xbox Game Pass subscriber this December, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to good games to play. We’re going to run through a few of our top picks for this month so you can make the most out of the service by taking advantage of new additions as well as digging into some golden oldies.
So here’s our recommendations:
Tetris Effect: Connected
An Xbox Series X and S launch game, Tetris Effect: Connected is an exclusive multiplayer-focused revision of 2018’s Tetris Effect. I think this game flys under the radar because most people think that it’s “just Tetris” when it is so much more than that. It’s Tetris, seen through the lens of synaesthesia mastermind Tetsuya Miziguchi, who is responsible for groundbreaking games like Rez, Space Channel 5 and Lumines. It’s even better in VR, but in absence of that, go in blind, flick the lights off and soak in the soul soothing joys of Journey Mode.
Celeste
One of the greatest platforming games ever made has made its way to Game Pass this month. Developed by Maddy Thorson and scored by the supremely talented Lena Raine, Celeste is a mindful indie platformer about identity and mental health. Its tight controls are evocative of games like Super Meat Boy, but Celeste also has a beautiful moral wrapped up in its charming narrative. Don’t miss it!
Grim Fandango Remastered
A stone-cold classic from the LucasArts days, Tim Schafer’s Grim Fandango has made its way to Game Pass after being refined by the folks at Double Fine. The eye-popping environments and masterful blend of genres make for an instantly compelling experience, even some 22 years after its release. If you want a game that is unlike anything you’ve ever played, definitely check out Grim Fandango.
Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order
Despite a lukewarm reception at launch, Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order is still one of the more successful soulslike games, one that every Dark Souls fan should try. It nabs the crunchy combat of From Software’s inimitable series but wraps it up in an unbeatable licence that will please any Skywalker simp. Just watch out for ‘Mannequin Skywalker’ Cal Kestis, who is easily one of the most forgettable characters in Star Lore.
Skate 3
As the EA Play library has become available to all Game Pass Ultimate subscribers, this means that many of the publisher’s best games have been dragged out of the vault and given a new lease on life. Skate 3 feels fantastic to play on current-gen and next-gen consoles, offering an unparalleled flick-stick skating experience that is yet to be beaten. There’s a reason so many people still play it even now, and personally, I often take a few days every year just to play through its addicting campaign. Check it out!
Additional Xbox Game Pass Games Coming In December
- Control (Android & Console) – December 3
- Doom Eternal (PC) – December 3
- Haven (Console & PC) ID@Xbox – December 3
- Rage 2 (Android) – December 3
- Slime Rancher (Android & Console) ID@Xbox – December 3
- Va-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action (PC) ID@Xbox – December 3
- Yes, Your Grace (Android, Console & PC) ID@Xbox – December 3
- Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age – Definitive Edition (Console & PC) – December 4
- Call of the Sea (Android, Console & PC) ID@Xbox – December 8
- Monster Sanctuary (Android & Console) ID@Xbox – December 8
- Starbound (PC) ID@Xbox – December 8
- Unto The End (Console & PC) ID@Xbox – December 9
- Assetto Corsa (Android & Console) – December 10
- Gang Beasts (Android & Console) ID@Xbox – December 10
- GreedFall (Android, Console & PC) – December 10
- Superhot: Mind Control Delete (Android & Console) ID@Xbox – December 10
- Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair (Android, Console & PC) ID@Xbox – December 10
