Let’s be honest, PC gaming has its perks (hello, Steam sales!), but Xbox Game Pass is making a serious case for console relevance. Remember those days when Game Pass felt like a “maybe later” kind of deal? Well, “later” is now, folks. With the surprise drop of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered and the critically acclaimed indie darling Clair Obscur Expedition 33, Game Pass is overflowing with RPG goodness. So, grab your controllers (or keyboards, no judgment!), because we’re diving deep into why Game Pass is suddenly the hottest ticket in town for RPG fans.
Oblivion Remastered: A Nostalgia Trip Worth Taking
The whispers were true! Bethesda, in collaboration with Virtuos, unleashed Oblivion Remastered onto Game Pass, and the internet collectively lost its mind. Who could resist revisiting Cyrodiil with enhanced visuals, revamped character models, and smoother combat? The remastered VFX breathe new life into the familiar landscapes, while the updated character models make those awkward NPC interactions slightly less… awkward. Did they nail it perfectly? Well, almost. While the addition of new voice actors initially raised some eyebrows, Virtuos wisely retained the best of the original cast, preserving the charm that made Oblivion so memorable.
And let’s not forget the soundtrack. Seriously, those iconic tunes are enough to make any RPG fan swoon. Downloading the game took most of my day, but listening to the soundtrack took up most of my night. No regrets. Check out the price comparison below:
| Edition | Price | Content |
|---|---|---|
| Base Edition | $49.99 | Original Game + DLCs |
| Deluxe Edition | $59.99 | Base Edition + Extra Content (TBA) |
Clair Obscur Expedition 33: The Indie Darling That Could
Two days after the Oblivion bombshell, Game Pass dropped another gem: < i>Clair Obscur Expedition 33. This stylish JRPG-inspired debut from Sandfall Interactive is making waves, and for good reason. With a stunning 92 on Metacritic and a user score nearing perfection at 9.7, the game is a testament to thoughtful story design and innovative gameplay. The UI is a work of art, reminiscent of classic JRPGs, while the turn-based combat system is easily one of the freshest I’ve encountered.
The Double Whammy: Two Great Games, One Great Price
Some worried that Oblivion’s shadow might eclipse the indie brilliance of Expedition 33. But let’s be real, it’s like getting two delicious cakes – and Game Pass makes enjoying both much easier on the wallet. With both games launching at $49.99 individually, the value of Game Pass is undeniable. This isn’t just a win for gamers; it’s a win for the entire industry. It shows that big names and indie darlings can coexist, thriving together in a vibrant ecosystem.
Game Pass: The RPG Lover’s Dream Come True
Game Pass isn’t just about these two titles. It’s a treasure trove of gaming goodness, packed with both recent releases and timeless classics. Think GTA V, the Call of Duty franchise, and a slew of other heavy hitters. And with the addition of Towerborne, the co-op action RPG, there’s even more reason to jump in. The game’s inclusion in Game Pass makes trying new titles virtually risk-free. But is this sustainable? Can Microsoft keep offering this much value?
The Price of Paradise: Is a Hike on the Horizon?
Game Pass Ultimate currently sits at $19.99/month, offering access to a vast library across console, PC, and cloud gaming. PC Game Pass is even cheaper at $11.99/month. But with the sheer volume of high-quality games hitting the service, one has to wonder: how long can these prices last? The last price increase was in July 2024. With releases like Oblivion Remastered and Expedition 33 driving subscriptions, another price hike in 2025 wouldn’t be entirely surprising.
Clair Obscur’s Meteoric Rise: A Million Copies and Counting
Sandfall Interactive is having a moment. Clair Obscur Expedition 33 launched on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Game Pass, smashing expectations with over 1 million copies sold in just three days! And that’s not even counting Game Pass downloads. This indie gem hit over 500,000 sales in its first 24 hours, proving that there’s a hungry audience for innovative, well-crafted turn-based RPGs. With overwhelmingly positive reviews and an average Metacritic score of 90, the game’s success is a testament to its quality and the power of word-of-mouth marketing.
The Future of Game Pass: More Games, More Value?
The influx of high-quality games on Game Pass raises an intriguing question: What’s next? Can Microsoft maintain this momentum? With the gaming landscape constantly evolving, one thing is certain: Game Pass is a force to be reckoned with. So, whether you’re a seasoned RPG veteran or a curious newcomer, Game Pass offers an unparalleled gaming experience. Is it the perfect service? Maybe not. But is it an incredible value for gamers? Absolutely. So, what are you waiting for? Dive in!
Top 5 Must-Play RPGs on Xbox Game Pass
With so much RPG goodness on Game Pass, it can be tough to know where to start. So, we’ve compiled a list of five must-play RPGs that will keep you hooked for hours. From epic adventures to quirky indie gems, there’s something here for every RPG fan.
- The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered: Relive the magic of Cyrodiil with updated visuals and smoother combat. Explore vast landscapes, battle fearsome creatures, and forge your own destiny in this timeless classic.
- Clair Obscur Expedition 33: Dive into a stylish JRPG-inspired adventure with innovative turn-based combat and a captivating story. Prepare to be mesmerized by the stunning UI and unforgettable characters.
- Towerborne: Team up with friends in this co-op action RPG and battle hordes of enemies in a vibrant, ever-changing world. Experiment with different builds and abilities to create the ultimate hero.
- Persona 5 Royal: Experience the ultimate version of the critically acclaimed JRPG. Navigate the complexities of high school life, uncover dark secrets, and fight for justice in this stylish and engaging adventure.
- Mass Effect Legendary Edition: Relive the epic saga of Commander Shepard in this remastered trilogy. Make crucial decisions that shape the galaxy’s fate and forge alliances with unforgettable characters.
Oblivion Remastered: Essential Tips for New Players
Stepping into Cyrodiil for the first time can be overwhelming. Here are a few tips to help you get started on your Oblivion adventure:
- Focus on a few key skills: Don’t try to be a jack-of-all-trades. Specialize in a few skills that complement your playstyle for maximum effectiveness.
- Explore every nook and cranny: Cyrodiil is full of hidden treasures and secret quests. Take your time to explore the world and discover all its hidden wonders.
- Join the guilds: Joining guilds offers unique quests, rewards, and opportunities to improve your skills. Consider joining the Fighters Guild, Mages Guild, or Thieves Guild to enhance your gameplay experience.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: Oblivion offers a wide range of playstyles. Experiment with different weapons, armor, and magic to find what works best for you.
- Save often: Cyrodiil can be a dangerous place. Save your game frequently to avoid losing progress.
Clair Obscur Expedition 33: Decoding the Combat System
The turn-based combat in Clair Obscur Expedition 33 is both innovative and challenging. Here’s a breakdown of the key mechanics:
- Elemental Affinities: Each character and enemy has an elemental affinity. Exploiting these affinities is crucial for victory.
- Combo Attacks: Coordinate attacks with your party members to unleash devastating combo attacks.
- Status Effects: Inflict status effects like poison, paralysis, and burn to gain an edge in battle.
- Resource Management: Manage your resources carefully, such as mana and action points, to ensure you have enough to last through tough encounters.
- Positioning: Positioning your characters strategically on the battlefield can make a significant difference in the outcome of a fight.
The Impact of Game Pass on the Gaming Industry
The rise of Game Pass has had a profound impact on the gaming industry, changing how games are developed, marketed, and consumed. Here are some key observations:
- Accessibility: Game Pass has made gaming more accessible to a wider audience by offering a vast library of games for a low monthly fee.
- Discovery: The service has become a powerful platform for discovering new games, particularly indie titles that might otherwise go unnoticed.
- Revenue Models: Game Pass has spurred innovation in revenue models, with developers exploring new ways to monetize their games beyond traditional sales.
- Competition: The success of Game Pass has intensified competition in the gaming subscription market, leading to more choices and better value for consumers.
- The Future of Gaming: Game Pass is shaping the future of gaming by blurring the lines between platforms and offering a more flexible and accessible way to play.
Game Pass FAQ
Is Xbox Game Pass worth it for RPG fans?
Absolutely! With titles like the remastered Oblivion and the critically acclaimed indie darling, Clair Obscur Expedition 33, Game Pass is a treasure trove for RPG lovers.
How much does Game Pass cost?
Game Pass Ultimate is $19.99/month and includes console, PC, and cloud gaming. PC Game Pass is $11.99/month.
What other RPGs are available on Game Pass?
Besides Oblivion and Clair Obscur Expedition 33, Game Pass offers a rotating library of RPGs, including titles like Towerborne and many more.
Will Game Pass prices increase?
While the current price is $19.99/month for Ultimate and $11.99/month for PC, a price increase in the future wouldn’t be surprising given the value being offered.
The Verdict on Game Pass
Xbox Game Pass has cemented its position as a leading force in the gaming world. With a constant influx of high-quality titles, both AAA and indie, Game Pass offers an incredible value proposition for gamers. From nostalgic trips to Cyrodiil in Oblivion Remastered to exploring innovative gameplay in Clair Obscur Expedition 33, Game Pass continues to deliver a diverse and captivating gaming experience.
