Xbox Game Pass Boasts Top RPGs for Fans

I experimented with Xbox gaming in its early years, but eventually transitioned completely to PC gaming. Steam's frequent sales typically satisfied my appetite for new releases. Though I was aware of Game Pass and its occasional blockbuster offerings, the service never seemed personally worthwhile—until yesterday's stunning announcements.

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Arrive on Game Pass

Bethesda and Virtuos stealth-launched Oblivion Remastered directly onto Game Pass—an open secret that still delivered shock value. Now Sandfall Interactive's Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 joins tomorrow, bringing JRPG-inspired aesthetics to the subscription service. As an RPG enthusiast, I'll admit: Microsoft finally hooked me.

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remaster hit PC, consoles, and Game Pass simultaneously on April 22. Like countless fans, I spent hours downloading before immersing myself in nostalgic melodies. This comprehensive remake features redesigned character models, enhanced combat mechanics, and upgraded visual effects. While Virtuos recruited additional voice talent, they wisely preserved the original's charmingly awkward dialogue. The $49.99 base edition includes all original DLC, with a $59.99 deluxe version also available.

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered Screenshots

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Meanwhile, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 marks French developer Sandfall Interactive's much-anticipated debut. Ahead of its midnight PST launch, the title boasts a 92 Metacritic score, with IGN's 9/10 review celebrating its narrative design as "a true modern throwback." The Persona-inspired UI and innovative turn-based combat system make this $49.99 release particularly compelling.

Though Expedition 33 earned top billing in April's Game Pass lineup, Oblivion Remastered's surprise arrival momentarily overshadowed the indie darling. However, these represent two phenomenal experiences made more accessible through Game Pass. Rather than spending $100 on both titles, I opted for a $20 Game Pass Ultimate subscription—now the only dilemma is finding time away from these worlds.

Recent additions like Blue Prince, South of Midnight, and Avowed join service mainstays GTA V and Call of Duty titles, creating arguably the most compelling Game Pass library yet.

Game Pass Delivers Unmatched Value

Game Pass Ultimate offers console, PC, and cloud access for $19.99/month, while PC-only subscriptions cost $9.99/month. The $14.99 Standard and $9.99 Core tiers exclude day-one releases. Following July 2024's price increase, further adjustments seem likely given this caliber of content.

Though active deals currently aren't available, purchasing multi-month subscriptions could hedge against future price hikes. For alternative platforms, check our PS5, PC, and Switch deal roundups—including tonight's U.S. preorder launch for Nintendo Switch 2.