Xbox game pass: a spring surge of games, including call of duty
April is shaping up to be a blockbuster month for Xbox Game Pass subscribers, with a relentless stream of titles hitting the service – a welcome reprieve for players facing the looming departure of classics like Grand Theft Auto V. Microsoft is throwing a veritable feast of games at users, ranging from gritty survival sims to sprawling strategy epics, and even a surprise entry from a major franchise.
A steady flow of additions throughout the month
The influx begins on April 8, with the PC version of DayZ joining the ranks, alongside Endless Legend 2 (Game Preview) and Remedy’s intriguing FBC: Firebreak. These additions, primarily for PC Game Pass and Game Pass Ultimate subscribers, provide immediate breadth to the offering. Frontier’s Planet Coaster 2 follows swiftly on April 9, expanding the possibilities for creative gamers. The tempo doesn't let up, with Tiny Bookshop appearing on April 10, and both Football Manager 26 (PC) and the console version arriving on April 13.
But the real fireworks begin mid-month. April 14 marks a significant day, headlined by the arrival of Hades II, a sequel eagerly anticipated by fans of the original. Joining it in the spotlight are Replaced and The Thaumaturge, both offering distinct and compelling narratives. Later that week, on April 16, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered offers a nostalgic journey for veteran RPG players, and EA Sports NHL 26 brings the latest hockey action to the platform.
Call of duty joins the party
Perhaps the most impactful announcement is the arrival of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019) on April 17. This isn't just another shooter; it's the soft reboot that revitalized the Call of Duty franchise and served as the foundation for the colossal Warzone battle royale. Its inclusion on Game Pass significantly elevates the service's appeal, particularly to more casual players who might not otherwise invest in the full-priced title. The move underscores Microsoft's commitment to attracting a wider audience with high-profile, mainstream games.
The second half of April continues the trend with a further wave of additions, including Little Rocket Lab and Sopa: Tale of the Stolen Potato. Vampire Crawlers and Kiln round out the new releases, ensuring a steady stream of fresh content throughout the month. However, the impending removal of titles like Ashen and Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes serves as a reminder that even the best subscriptions have their ebb and flow.
The sheer volume of games hitting Game Pass in April is a testament to Microsoft's aggressive strategy to attract and retain subscribers. While the departures are unfortunate, the influx of titles, particularly the inclusion of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, positions Xbox Game Pass as a compelling value proposition for gamers of all stripes.