Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass service, often described as the “Netflix of gaming,” is saying goodbye to a handful of titles this month. On October 15, four notable games—Cocoon, Core Keeper, Donut County, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutants Unleashed—will officially leave the subscription catalog. While this kind of rotation is a normal part of the service, the departure is already sparking conversation among players who have come to appreciate the variety and accessibility that Game Pass offers.
For subscribers, the news is a reminder of the unique balance that Game Pass strikes. With hundreds of titles across console, PC, and cloud streaming, the library is constantly evolving, bringing in fresh experiences while cycling others out. For every new blockbuster or indie hit added, others quietly bow out. Microsoft has confirmed that these four titles will no longer be accessible through the subscription after mid-October, though players still have the option to purchase them at a discount before they’re removed.
Among the departing games, Cocoon stands out as a particularly bittersweet loss. Developed by Jeppe Carlsen, best known for his work on Limbo and Inside, Cocoon is a critically acclaimed puzzle adventure that takes players on a surreal journey across layered worlds. Praised for its inventive mechanics and minimalist storytelling, it quickly became a favorite in the indie scene. Its exit from Game Pass means newcomers who haven’t yet tried it will need to act quickly or buy it outright to experience its unique design.
Core Keeper, another indie success, will also be leaving the lineup. The game carved out a dedicated fan base with its mix of survival, crafting, and cooperative play. Drawing comparisons to titles like Terraria and Minecraft, Core Keeper has steadily grown through updates and community-driven content. While its removal from Game Pass won’t affect those who already own it, the departure may slow the influx of new players who discovered it through the service.
On a lighter note, Donut County is a short but memorable title that became something of a cult hit. Known for its quirky humor and simple yet addictive mechanics, it puts players in control of a mysterious hole in the ground that swallows everything in sight. Despite being a relatively brief experience, its charm made it a fan favorite among casual players and Game Pass subscribers looking for something offbeat.
Finally, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutants Unleashed brought a nostalgic twist to the roster. Tapping into decades of TMNT fandom, the game offered a mix of action and co-op fun, appealing both to longtime fans of the turtles and a new generation of players. Its removal from the service narrows access to one of the most recognizable franchises in pop culture, though it remains available for purchase separately.
For Xbox Game Pass members, the rotation is part of the deal: the service thrives on constant change. Still, losing a mix of critically acclaimed indie titles and recognizable franchises is bound to leave a small gap. Fortunately, Microsoft has teased an equally exciting slate of new additions for October, ensuring that the momentum behind Game Pass remains as strong as ever.
