The Best Games on Xbox Game Pass for August 2025

August 2025 is shaping up to be an exceptional month for Xbox Game Pass subscribers. The service continues to be a premium value for gamers, offering a diverse lineup of titles from major blockbusters to hidden indie gems. This month’s additions are particularly exciting, with a mix of highly anticipated new releases and critically acclaimed games making their way to the service. Whether you’re a fan of action-packed shooters, atmospheric survival games, or strategic RPGs, the August lineup has something for everyone. We’ve compiled a list of the must-play games currently available on Game Pass, including the newest arrivals and a few evergreen classics you shouldn’t miss.

August 2025: The Newest Additions

The first half of August has already brought several high-profile titles to the Game Pass library, while the second half promises even more. Here are the standouts you need to download immediately.

• Gears of War: Reloaded: This definitive remaster of the iconic original is the flagship title for August. Launching day one on Game Pass, this version is fully optimized for the latest generation of consoles, offering a stunning 4K resolution and a blistering 120 frames-per-second frame rate. For longtime fans and new players alike, this is the perfect opportunity to experience the start of the epic Gears saga.
• Assassin’s Creed Mirage: Moving away from the massive RPG format of recent entries, Assassin’s Creed Mirage is a more focused, classic-style stealth-action game. The game’s emphasis on parkour and assassination makes for a tighter, more intimate experience. It’s the perfect title for those who miss the old-school Assassin’s Creed formula.
• Aliens: Fireteam Elite: For fans of cooperative shooters and the classic Alien franchise, this game is a must-play. This third-person co-op shooter pits you and two friends against waves of terrifying Xenomorphs. It’s a tense and thrilling experience that beautifully captures the action-horror feel of the movies.
• Rain World: This cult classic indie title is a true gem. Rain World is a challenging and intense survival platformer with a unique pixel-art style and incredibly fluid procedural animations. It’s not for the faint of heart, but its rich world and memorable atmosphere make it a deeply rewarding experience for those who stick with it.
• Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector: The sequel to the critically acclaimed narrative RPG, this game continues the heartfelt sci-fi story of an escaped android. With its dice-driven mechanics and deeply human narrative, it’s a game that will stick with you long after the credits roll.

Evergreen Game Pass Essentials

Beyond the new releases, the Game Pass library is home to an incredible collection of enduring classics and modern hits. These are the games that make the subscription a phenomenal value, and if you haven’t played them yet, now is the time.

• Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice: An immersive, critically acclaimed masterpiece that explores mental health with a powerful and poignant narrative. Its unique audio design and beautiful visuals create a haunting and unforgettable journey.
• Grounded: This inventive survival game shrinks you down to the size of an ant, forcing you to survive in a backyard filled with giant insects and other dangers. With its creative crafting systems and engaging cooperative gameplay, it’s one of the most unique titles on the service. The recent release of Grounded 2 as an early access title for Game Pass members also gives players a great chance to explore the series’ future.
• The Elder Scrolls Online: For players who want a massive, sprawling RPG experience, The Elder Scrolls Online offers hundreds of hours of content. You can explore the vast continent of Tamriel, join a guild, and embark on a variety of quests with or without friends.
• Forza Horizon 5: Widely regarded as one of the best racing games of all time, Forza Horizon 5 takes you to a stunning recreation of Mexico. With an incredible roster of cars and a seamless blend of single-player and multiplayer content, it’s the ultimate arcade racing experience.
• Psychonauts 2: A brilliant and hilarious platformer that takes you on a psychedelic journey through the minds of a colorful cast of characters. With its imaginative levels and fantastic writing, it’s a delightful adventure from start to finish.

The Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscriptions are constantly evolving, and the August 2025 lineup is proof that Microsoft is committed to delivering a top-tier service. From day one launches like Gears of War: Reloaded to classic gems like Hellblade, there is no shortage of quality content to play. Grab your controller, explore the library, and dive into some of the best gaming experiences available today.