Xbox adds Grounded 2 and a fresh lineup of games to Game Pass

Grounded two arrives early and shrinks us again

Grounded 2 launched in Early Access (Game Preview) on July 29, 2025, on Xbox Game Pass and PC platforms. It surpassed 3 million players within two weeks of launch.

The sequel to Obsidian’s quirky backyard survival hit launched in Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass. You’re tiny again, and the world is vast and deadly. Team up with friends or explore solo, craft your shelter, ride bugs, and battle new threats.

While it’s still in early access, it’s packed with mystery and danger. It’s also shaping up to be bigger, bolder, and buggier (in a good way) than the original.

Grounded 2 takes early access to new heights

Obsidian’s approach to Grounded 2 is a little different this time. Rather than frequent updates like the original, the sequel will roll out fewer but meatier content drops. It’s all based on lessons learned during the original’s development.

This means more polish per update and less crunch for the developers. Plus, the game will stay in early access, with feedback from players shaping its evolution.

Game Pass drops a wave of summer titles

July 2025 ended strongly for Game Pass subscribers with a packed lineup of games across genres. From horror puppets to farming life to high-octane bike rides, there’s something for every kind of player.

Microsoft confirmed Grounded two for July 17 and the final new addition, bringing this strong July lineup to Game Pass subscribers. That’s an impressive cadence for any subscription service.

Abiotic Factor mixes science with survival

Imagine Half-Life meets The Forest, which is an Abiotic Factor. This sci-fi survival game lets you and up to five others explore a research facility gone haywire. You’re not just scavenging, you’re solving scientific mysteries while dodging paranormal threats.

Pick your field of expertise, team up with fellow researchers, and survive the chaos. It’s bright, chaotic, and perfect for co-op fans craving something different.

Wuchang is a dark fantasy with a brutal edge

Wuchang: Fallen Feathers is a grim, souls-like RPG set in the dying days of the Ming Dynasty. You’re a cursed pirate warrior fighting for answers and redemption.

Expect punishing combat, hidden lore, and grotesque enemies in haunting ruins and forgotten temples. It’s rich in atmosphere and stands out among action RPG fans on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass.

RoboCop is back and ready to clean up Detroit

Fans of the classic ’80s RoboCop will love RoboCop: Rogue City, now available to Game Pass Standard and Ultimate subscribers. In a brand-new story, you play as the iconic half-man, half-machine law enforcer.

Original actor Peter Weller returns to voice the character, lending authenticity to this gritty FPS adventure. It’s a nostalgic ride with modern firepower and an unapologetic throwback to the source material.

My Friendly Neighborhood is puppet horror done right

Think Sesame Street, but terrifying. My Friendly Neighborhood is a survival horror gem where deranged puppets have taken over a once-joyful TV studio. As Gordon the repairman, you’ll unravel what went wrong using tools, smarts, and makeshift weapons.

The creepy humor and clever puzzles make this one of Game Pass’s most memorable indie horror additions in a while.

Back to the Dawn is Zootopia meets Prison Break

You’re a wrongly accused journalist turned prison escapee in Back to the Dawn, a gritty RPG where animals rule and danger lurks in every corridor.

Play as Thomas the fox or Bob the panther, and explore branching narratives, character builds, and over 100 quests. With multiple escape routes and faction alliances, this game offers massive replay value. It’s surprisingly deep and shockingly fun.

Wheel World makes biking an ethereal journey

Formerly known as Ghost Bike, Wheel World is a unique cycling adventure with supernatural twists. You play as Kat, a young rider who can pedal between the worlds of the living and the dead.

As you explore vivid landscapes, win races, and collect upgrades, you’ll uncover a story about loss, purpose, and the journey between. Relaxing yet emotional, it’s a must-play sleeper hit.

Farming Simulator 25 makes rural life epic

For those who crave structure, strategy, and serenity, Farming Simulator 25 is a dream come true. This latest installment adds global locations like East Asia and North America, weather dynamics, and ground-deforming tech.

You’ll manage livestock, crops, and machinery in single-player or multiplayer modes. It’s not just peaceful, it’s deeply immersive. Now available for all Game Pass tiers.

High On Life returns to Game Pass with a bang

After a short hiatus, High On Life is back on Game Pass across all platforms. This absurd sci-fi shooter from the mind behind Rick and Morty blends irreverent humor with colorful chaos. Your guns talk.

The aliens are weird. The missions are wild. And yes, humanity is being used as a drug. If you missed it before, now’s the perfect time to dive in.

Fragpunk perks unlock high-tier mayhem

Game Pass Ultimate members can now unlock the full Lancer roster and weapon skins in Fragpunk. This bonus includes animated skins with model and kill VFX, plus early access to future Lancers. It’s a flashy reward for fans of the fast-paced arena shooter.

The visual upgrades add flair to your firefights and give Ultimate members a tactical (and stylish) edge.

Asphalt Legends perks add racing power

Ready to hit the track in style? Game Pass Ultimate members can now claim an exclusive Asphalt Legends Unite bundle with serious performance. You’ll unlock the sleek Acura NSX GT3 Evo, get 10 premium card packs, and start with a whopping 500,000 credits to upgrade your collection.

Whether you’re fine-tuning your garage or building from scratch, this bundle gives you a clear advantage right out of the gate. Take on rivals, dominate the leaderboard, and leave everyone in your dust.

Gears of War gets reloaded this August

Coming August 26, Gears of War: Reloaded remasters the iconic third-person shooter again. Xbox is going all-in on nostalgic reboots, and this one looks particularly polished.

Expect improved visuals, smoother gameplay, and that classic chainsaw-gun action. It’s part of August’s Wave 2 lineup and’ll be a day-one Game Pass release for Ultimate and PC players.

What happens to your games when platforms change the rules? One EU leader says you should own it forever if you bought it.

Game Pass is still the best deal in gaming

With early access titles like Grounded 2, blockbuster remasters, unique indies, and monthly perks, Game Pass continues to dominate the subscription space.

At $20/month for Ultimate, it offers a rotating lineup that rivals most game libraries. If you’re not already subscribed, this latest drop might be the push you need. Your backlog may never recover, but your gamer heart will thank you.

Think Game Pass was already stacked? The Xbox PC app just added 250+ streamable games, and they’re not even part of the core lineup.

What do you think about playing these games that Xbox just added to the Game Pass? Please share your thoughts and drop a comment.

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.