July’s Game Pass lineup impressed, but August is taking the excitement to a whole new level. Microsoft isn’t holding back, and I can tell you — this update has something for everyone, whether you’re into narrative-driven adventures, survival crafting, or couch co-op fun. Let’s break it down:
- August 20 — Axiom Verge 2 (Cloud, Console, and PC)
One of the most requested indies finally arrives! If you loved the original, this sequel expands the universe with parallel worlds, new gadgets, and a completely different protagonist. It’s the kind of Metroidvania that’ll keep you glued for hours. - August 21 — Frostpunk 2 (PC)
Survival city-builders don’t get more brutal than this. In Frostpunk 2, you’re not just keeping people warm — you’re trying to keep society itself from tearing apart. Expect impossible moral choices, resource scarcity, and that constant feeling of “just one more day.” PC players, this is your test of strategy and resilience. - August 22 — Metal Slug Tactics (Cloud, Console, and PC)
SNK’s legendary run-and-gun franchise takes a tactical turn. Imagine your favorite chaotic arcade battles, but with a smart, strategic layer where every move counts. Honestly, this is the kind of Game Pass surprise that makes me love the service — retro roots meeting modern gameplay. - August 27 — Super Monkey Ball Banana Rumble (Cloud, Console, and PC)
Party game fans, this one’s for you. Banana Rumble is all about wild multiplayer mayhem, and I can already see it becoming the go-to couch co-op pick on Game Pass. Whether you’re racing through obstacle courses or trolling your friends with power-ups, this is pure, chaotic fun. - August 29 — Homeworld 3 (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
The big one. After years of anticipation, Homeworld 3 is finally docking on Game Pass. Space RTS fans, you’re in for a treat — epic battles, cinematic visuals, and tactical depth that’ll have you pausing every few seconds to plan your next big fleet maneuver. And the fact that it’s coming day-one to Game Pass? Huge.
Titles Leaving Xbox Game Pass in August 2025
Of course, with all these arrivals, a few fan-favorites are making their exit. If you’ve been meaning to play these, now’s the time to speed-run before they disappear from the library on August 31:
- Firewatch
- Celeste
- Monster Hunter Rise
- Slay the Spire
- Ghost of a Tale
Personally, I’m a little heartbroken to see Celeste go — it’s one of those indie masterpieces that every gamer should experience at least once. Luckily, you can always grab these titles at a discount before they leave the service.
Read More: Xbox Update Unlocks Game Streaming on PC and Brings Xbox Cloud Gaming to Your iPad
Why This Update Matters
What stands out about this Game Pass drop isn’t just the quantity, but the quality and variety. You’ve got indie darlings (Axiom Verge 2), blockbuster strategy (Frostpunk 2), nostalgic franchises (Metal Slug Tactics), multiplayer chaos (Banana Rumble), and one of the year’s most ambitious strategy titles (Homeworld 3).
It feels like Microsoft is making a statement here — Game Pass isn’t slowing down in 2025, it’s becoming more essential than ever. And honestly? If you’re not subscribed yet, this might be the lineup that finally convinces you.
