Xbox Game Pass aims to offer the best gaming experience, and in 2023, it certainly delivered. Throughout the year, the service added top-quality new games, ranging from big budget AAA releases to innovative indies.
2023 undoubtedly stands out as one of the most remarkable years for Xbox Game Pass, with a steady stream of new releases complemented by the introduction of beloved classics. Microsoft consistently updated the Xbox Game Pass library with a diverse range of games, including some of the biggest titles to date.
Discover the top day one Xbox Game Pass games added in 2023:
Cassette Beasts
Embracing a Pokémon-style monster-catching concept, Cassette Beasts introduces an ambitious fusion mechanic, allowing players to combine nearly every monster within the game. Regarded as one of the highest-rated Xbox Game Pass games of 2023, Cassette Beasts appeals to both Pokémon enthusiasts and those seeking a high-quality RPG experience.
Cocoon
Discover Game Rant's Cocoon Review
One of the noteworthy aspects of Xbox Game Pass is its ability to elevate riskier, creative games like Geometric Interactive's Cocoon. This peculiar sci-fi puzzle game defies easy explanation, benefiting from its day one Game Pass status, which afforded it a much larger audience. Players navigate alien worlds while carrying orbs, with the added twist of being able to travel within these orbs to access different internal worlds. This setup leads to mind-bending puzzles and imaginative boss battles, delivering an unforgettable gaming experience.
Forza Motorsport
While the open world Forza Horizon series has captivated racing fans, many have eagerly anticipated the return of the simulation-based Forza Motorsport games. The gap between Forza Motorsport 7 and the latest installment was a lengthy six years, but the wait proved worthwhile. The new Forza Motorsport impresses with cutting-edge graphics, expanded online features, and substantial content to keep racing enthusiasts engaged for an extended period. Its multiple victories at The Game Awards 2023 further solidify its status as one of the premier new Xbox Game Pass games of the year.
Hi-Fi Rush
Most day one Xbox Game Pass games are announced months, or even years, in advance. However, Hi-Fi Rush broke this trend by surprising players with its innovative music/rhythm hack-and-slash gameplay, shadow dropping as a day one game in early 2023. Praised for its cel-shaded art style and inventive combat system, Hi-Fi Rush stands out as one of the most distinctive games added to Xbox Game Pass throughout the year.
Jusant
Don't Nod, known for their varied game offerings, added the day one Xbox Game Pass game Jusant, a puzzle platformer, to their repertoire. Players are tasked with ascending a massive tower, with breathtaking views brought to life through the vibrant art style. As one of the top-rated day one Xbox Game Pass games of 2023, Jusant is a must-try for subscribers seeking an exceptional gaming experience.
Lies of P
Discover Game Rant's Lies of P Review
While many have attempted to replicate FromSoftware's Soulslike formula, few have succeeded as admirably as Lies of P developer Neowiz. This challenging Soulslike adventure sees players navigate the perilous streets of Krat as Pinocchio, armed with a vast array of weapons to combat a variety of mechanical and organic monsters, including formidable multi-phase bosses. Recognized as one of the top non-FromSoftware Soulslike games, Lies of P emerged as a surprise hit on Xbox Game Pass in 2023, leaving players eager for its upcoming DLC.
Ravenlok
Discover Game Rant's Ravenlok Review
Cococumber's Ravenlok stands out as one of 2023's most underrated Xbox Game Pass games. This action-RPG, featuring a voxel art style, marks the conclusion of the developer's Voxel Trilogy, following Riverbond and Echo Generation. Inspired by the Alice in Wonderland fairytale, Ravenlok offers a short yet captivating adventure, successfully maintaining player engagement from beginning to end.
Sea of Stars
Discover Game Rant's Sea of Stars Review
Sea of Stars by Sabotage Studio made a significant impact by not only releasing as a day one Xbox Game Pass game but also launching concurrently on PS Plus Extra. Its availability on both Xbox Game Pass and PS Plus Extra enhances accessibility to this remarkable RPG, paying homage to 16-bit era JRPGs while incorporating modern enhancements. Boasting a memorable cast of characters and a gripping narrative, Sea of Stars solidifies its position as a must-play Xbox Game Pass game of 2023.
Starfield
Discover Game Rant's Starfield Review
The cornerstone of Xbox Game Pass in 2023 undoubtedly was Bethesda's Starfield. This sprawling open world sci-fi RPG marked the studio's first single-player release since 2015's Fallout 4, generating immense anticipation in the years leading up to its launch. While some may tire of the Bethesda formula, many have embraced Starfield as an ambitious adventure on an awe-inspiring scale. With classic Bethesda RPG gameplay, over 1,000 planets, and hundreds of galaxies to explore, Starfield offers an overwhelming amount of content to captivate players for hours. As Bethesda commits to enhancing Starfield with future updates and the forthcoming Shattered Space expansion, fans have much to anticipate in 2024 and beyond.
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre
Discover Game Rant's The Texas Chain Saw Massacre Review
Among the array of asymmetrical multiplayer horror games, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre stands out for its exceptional quality. Drawing inspiration from the original 1974 horror classic, the game places four players in the roles of survivors, pitted against three others portraying Leatherface and his deranged family members. Fans of the movie will relish the opportunity to explore the game's maps, while those seeking a thrilling and chilling cooperative gaming experience will find The Texas Chain Saw Massacre exceeds their expectations.