5 Xbox Game Pass Games to Play This Week (August 24 – August 30)

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This week offers a tranquil moment, a prelude to the chaos – the ideal opportunity to immerse yourself in hidden treasures from the Xbox Game Pass collection. With fewer distractions caused by recent revelations at Gamescom or impending gaming marathons during Labor Day weekend, you can enjoy these games without being diverted by constant announcements and major releases.

If you’re interested in exploring expansive environments, immersing yourself in indie masterpieces, or perfecting your deck-building skills, this week’s Xbox Game Pass selection offers something for every taste. Ranging from the enigmatic underworld of a bug civilization to the thrilling mayhem of distant galaxies, now is the ideal moment to add these games to your download list and make the most of your Game Pass membership before the holiday season kicks off.

Hollow Knight

Fans of the game “Hollow Knight” have been anxiously waiting for news about the upcoming sequel, and finally, that wait has come to an end! The release date for “Silksong” has officially been announced, leaving gamers all over the world thrilled at the prospect of returning to Hallownest. If you haven’t yet experienced this game that’s causing a sensation, then you’re truly missing out. Games with a unique visual style hold a special place in my heart, and this Metroidvania platformer is nothing short of stunning thanks to its striking art direction and a soundtrack that envelops you within the decay engulfing the insect kingdom. To cap it all off, the exceptional presentation by Team Cherry is evident in “Hollow Knight”‘s intricate labyrinths and puzzle-like design. Whether you’re playing it for the first time or revisiting this masterpiece, make sure to immerse yourself in it before “Silksong” launches on September 4.

Borderlands 3: Ultimate Edition

If you’ve been yearning for a reason to dive headfirst into the chaotic world of Borderlands 3, now is your opportunity! The Ultimate Edition of Borderlands 3 is set to depart from Game Pass soon. With Borderlands 4 scheduled for release on September 12, this presents the perfect moment to delve into the series’ narrative, tinker with outrageous character builds, and immerse yourself in the unique blend of intense gunplay and hilarious wit that Borderlands is known for. This isn’t just a prelude; it’s your chance to acclimate yourself to the vault hunter madness before the next installment arrives. Whether you prefer to play alone or join forces in co-op, seize the day!

Assassin’s Creed Valhalla

Much like many enthusiasts of the “Assassin’s Creed” series, my initial encounter with the franchise was through “Assassin’s Creed 2”. Ever since then, I’ve yearned for a game that would rekindle the enchantment of the second installment. Fortunately, I discovered traces of that charm in “Odyssey”, which seemed to revisit the storytelling foundation of the franchise. However, if “Odyssey” was a narrative revival, “Assassin’s Creed Valhalla” was its technical and mechanical peak. “Valhalla” honors what made the series exceptional with its immersive combat and reliable stealth mechanics, while also offering its own distinct flavor through extensive customization features. The world in “Valhalla” appears vividly vast and detailed, yet its base serves as a constant refuge for players, both functionally and narratively.

Persona 4 Golden

If you’re disappointed that Persona 3 is no longer on Game Pass, don’t worry! Persona 4 Golden has recently been added to the subscription service. This upcoming long weekend would be a great time to start playing it. Persona 4 offers an intriguing murder mystery set against the backdrop of high school life, with its dark themes contrasted by lighter moments. The game is also home to some of the best characters from the entire Persona series, who join you on your journey. The combination of everyday high school experiences and tactical turn-based battles make it engaging, while its time management mechanics, music, and themes of internal struggle make it one of the most memorable titles in the Persona franchise.

Balatro

In the realm of card games, Balatro creeps up on you as an unexpected gem. Initially, a player might not anticipate much without delving deeper. However, as you immerse yourself in its gameplay, you’ll discover intricate strategic layers and replayability that warranted it a Game of the Year nomination alongside other notable titles such as Astrobot and Black Myth: Wukong, in 2024. The unique card enhancements, Joker effects tailored to each deck, and diverse playstyles in Balatro redefine a conventional poker hand. It offers a breath of fresh air for players who might have grown weary of the genre. Moreover, its sleek UI, stylish design, and engaging gameplay make Balatro an ideal choice to download from Game Pass when you want to pass some leisurely hours.

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2025-08-24 15:36