10 Best AA Games on Xbox Game Pass, Ranked

As a long-time enthusiast of gaming, I must say that each of these games has left an indelible mark on my journey through the digital realm.

Over time, as video games expand and become more varied, we’ve developed a growing number of categories to help classify them based on shared traits, many of which revolve around gameplay mechanics.

As time passes, we’ve come to classify years based on the type of production. This categorization has led us to recognize the “‘AA’ label“, denoting games with substantial budgets (although not as large as AAA games), as well as those with experimental or niche approaches (though they are less indie-like in this regard).

Due to this, we’ve created an innovative kind of game that aims to combine the finest aspects from different worlds. It provides distinctive yet subdued experiences similar to those featured in our top 10 list of the greatest AA games available on Game Pass.

In the context of this article, “AA” tag signifies games that fall under the mid-range budget category and were developed by teams outside of the big, renowned companies like Microsoft, Sony, Nintendo, Bethesda, Capcom, Electronic Arts (EA), or Square Enix.

10 Evil West

Become A Wild West Superhero

10 Best AA Games on Xbox Game Pass, Ranked

2022 saw the unexpected hit, Evil West, captivating the gaming world with its unique blend of action-adventure. It offered a gritty, entertaining twist on the classic Old West setting, infused with an unexpected and well-received supernatural element.

Although it follows a straightforward layout which can sometimes result in boredom, its engaging fight mechanics and stunning graphics evoke nostalgia for old-school action titles, particularly when played together with others.

In Evil West, you’ll find endless fun in enhancing your weaponry, battling fearsome beasts, and witnessing thrilling carnage. It’s simply fantastic for uncomplicated enjoyment and rampant demolition!

9 Remnant: From the Ashes

The Souls-like With Guns

Discussing top-tier games that blend soul-like mechanics or unique genre combinations, it’s hard not to mention Remnant: From the Ashes as a standout example – a title where Gunfire Games masterfully infused Dark Souls-style gameplay with gunplay elements.

The game, which is noteworthy for its resemblance to the Soulsborne series, as a Third-Person Shooter (TPS), and as a cooperative play experience, has achieved an impressive feat by attempting multiple elements simultaneously and excelling in each instance.

Regardless of whether it’s about battle scenes, artistic expression, layout, storytelling, or challenge levels, this game consistently maintains its balance, prioritizing fun while ensuring a cohesive player experience.

8 A Plague Tale: Requiem

Breathtaking Struggle

A Plague Tale: Requiem” isn’t just one of the top-notch stealth games available on Game Pass; it’s also the primary factor that makes Asobo Studio a development team worthy of close observation in the AA category.

To this very moment, only a few sequels have managed to evoke such a powerful sense of gloom and desolation as this one does. It presents an emotionally charged storyline brimming with depth, meaning, and an engaging experience for the viewers.

Apart from its somewhat cumbersome settings and straightforward gameplay, “A Plague Tale: Requiem” is a journey you’ll find rewarding simply for the emotional experience it offers.

7 The Outer Worlds

Obsidian’s Underrated Gem

Although The Outer Worlds may not be Obsidian’s most cherished creation, it undeniably showcases why they are ranked amongst the elite RPG developers worldwide.

The game’s vibrant, retro-futuristic world teems with unusual characters and a biting satire, making it the ideal setting for an experience that captivates in every aspect; be it role-playing, combat, or exploration. Its quality is consistently top-notch.

Despite some gamers not finding it appealing, if you allow it to, The Outer Worlds can captivate you deeply.

6 Wasteland 3

Post-apocalyptic Immersion

In recent gaming times, Wasteland 3 stands out as a remarkable yet often overlooked gem among tactical RPGs. Its exceptional quality seems almost unjustified by the fact that it hasn’t gained more widespread acclaim.

InXile Entertainment’s final installment offers an outstanding portrayal of a post-apocalyptic environment, drawing players into a merciless, responsive world that challenges both your moral compass and strategic abilities.

Boasting an exceptional storyline, stunning visuals, and thrilling interactive elements, this tactical role-playing game offers everything both seasoned players and beginners could desire from an authentic CRPG adventure.

5 Cities: Skylines

The Ultimate City Building Experience

As a dedicated fan, I’d have to say that Cities: Skylines, a legendary city-building simulation game, is nothing short of captivating, demanding, and thought-provoking. It’s an experience that truly stands out among its peers in the gaming world.

Experiencing the thrill of planning and governing a bustling city has never been more engrossing. The challenge lies in maintaining a balance between education, health services, and transport systems, all while keeping an eye on the city’s economic well-being, which proves to be incredibly rewarding.

The richness of features, variety of choices, and endless possibilities found in Cities: Skylines could make this game an enduring adventure. Notably, it’s challenging to conceive another city-building game with such intricate detail and finesse.

4 Psychonauts

Psychic Odyssey

Even though the “AA” label hadn’t been created yet, Psychonauts stands as an outstanding platformer that perfectly matches this category. In fact, its excellence is such that it would still deserve recognition, even without the label. And indeed, there’s always a chance to express appreciation for Double Fine’s remarkable work.

Razputin’s psychic journey stands out as one of the most imaginative and extraordinary video games from this century, offering a captivating narrative, witty humor, and groundbreaking gameplay elements that have withstood the passage of time.

Although it might be the first item on the list, the excellence of Psychonaut suggests a time when the creativity of interactive projects was unparalleled during the pinnacle of development.

3 Pillars of Eternity

Isometric Authority

In Pillars of Eternity, Obsidian makes a reappearance, showcasing yet another example of their exceptional talent in crafting role-playing games, which is almost mind-boggling.

In terms of creating intricate worlds, compelling stories, genuine character development, and a sincere nod to classic role-playing games, Pillars of Eternity stands among the very best.

Affirming the game isn’t fantastic is essentially questioning reality itself, given that the title demonstrates flawless mastery over the fundamental aspects of its genre and a genuine passion for anyone who has cherished similar games in the past.

2 Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice

The Original AA

Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice is widely recognized as a significant milestone in the world of video games. It stands out not just for introducing the “AA” (AAA-lite) category, but also for its unflinching exploration of mental health issues amidst a major game launch.

In contrast to their prevalence in independent games, themes similar to those found in Hellblade were (and still are) uncommon in major releases, particularly given the game’s unique, experimental mechanics and narrative style.

“Indeed, playing Senua’s Sacrifice feels like an immersive journey. It masterfully depicts the complexities of mental illness, offering a fresh perspective that dares to challenge the norm in a gaming industry often driven by trends rather than innovation.”

1 Lies of P

An Elegant Masterpiece

For about ten years now, there have been numerous attempts to replicate the unique formula created by FromSoftware. However, only one effort truly embodied the authentic spirit of the Soulsborne series: Lies of P.

Regardless of whether we are discussing the worst-case or best-case situation, this game can be considered a masterpiece. In the former case, it belongs to the finest souls-like games. Conversely, if luck favors us, it is an outstanding rendition of Pinocchio’s story and a worthy successor to Hidetaka Miyazaki’s legacy.

In terms of boss and level design, combat and progression systems, storytelling, character growth, visuals, and soundtracks, Lies of P is truly outstanding, one of the top-notch games of 2023 and the standout AA game available on Game Pass.

2024-11-04 14:10