Microsoft has kicked off August with a major refresh to Xbox Game Pass, bringing in a variety of new titles while quietly preparing to remove several others from the subscription service. The update marks one of the more balanced months for the platform, with big-name additions, long-awaited indie gems, and a few fan-favorite departures.
Leading the charge among the new arrivals is Assassin’s Creed Mirage. The stealth-action game transports players back to 9th-century Baghdad, delivering a more focused, narrative-driven experience reminiscent of the franchise’s early roots. Fans of classic Assassin’s Creed will find plenty to love here—from rooftop chases to silent assassinations and a richly detailed historical setting.
Joining Mirage is Wuchang: Fallen Feathers, a new soulslike action-RPG that blends brutal combat with Chinese folklore. The dark fantasy world, filled with plague-ridden monstrosities and haunted forests, offers a tough challenge and a deeply atmospheric experience. It’s already being compared to titles like Sekiro and Bloodborne, with a distinct Eastern flavor and a strong emphasis on lore.
Another standout this month is Grounded 2, the sequel to Obsidian’s surprisingly popular backyard survival adventure. The follow-up builds on everything that made the first game successful, adding new creatures, enhanced crafting, and a full campaign that can be played solo or in four-player co-op. The world is bigger, the threats more intense, and the tools more inventive.
Beyond these headline titles, Xbox Game Pass subscribers can also explore a range of indie games and hidden gems. Platformers, puzzle games, and co-op experiences make up the rest of the lineup, offering something for every type of player, whether they’re jumping in for ten minutes or ten hours.
But with every refresh comes a rotation, and several games are scheduled to leave Game Pass by mid-August. Microsoft has not revealed the full list of outgoing titles yet, but early reports suggest a few notable departures. Players are urged to finish or purchase these games before they’re removed, especially since Game Pass members receive a discount when buying titles from the library.
This rotation is part of Microsoft’s ongoing effort to keep the Game Pass library dynamic. While some longtime users may be disappointed by the departure of certain games, the overall direction suggests a strong push toward variety and freshness. By adding blockbuster releases like Assassin’s Creed Mirage alongside experimental and diverse titles, Microsoft continues to reinforce Game Pass as a must-have for gamers looking to explore without committing to full-price purchases.
August’s update is also a subtle reminder of how fluid digital gaming libraries have become. As the industry shifts toward subscription models, players are adapting to a landscape where game availability can change month to month. Microsoft’s communication around these changes has improved, but staying up to date is essential for subscribers who want to get the most out of their membership.
With more updates expected later this month, including potential surprises during upcoming livestream events, Game Pass remains a central pillar of Xbox’s strategy—and August is proving to be another solid chapter in its evolution.
