As we enter a new month, it’s time for an exciting refresh of Game Pass, Microsoft’s subscription service for accessing an array of games on both PC and Xbox platforms. Each month brings a fresh lineup, adding several new titles while some existing games bid farewell. Though these departures might not always be permanent, it’s prudent for subscribers to stay informed. Remember, for those who are still immersed in a title set to exit the service soon, significant discounts on these games are available for purchase.
April 2025 is shaping up to be a particularly thrilling month for Game Pass, featuring several major day-one releases that have generated considerable buzz within the gaming community. However, the month will also witness the removal of numerous titles, including several from a well-known RPG series. To equip you with insights on what to anticipate and what to snatch on sale, we have compiled a comprehensive list of the games arriving and departing the Game Pass catalog in April 2025.
New Titles Coming to Game Pass This April
Highlights: Clair Obscur, South of Midnight, and More
Below is a complete list of new titles debuting on Game Pass in April 2025, along with their respective platforms and subscription tiers required:
|
Date |
Game |
Tiers |
Platforms |
|---|---|---|---|
|
April 8 |
South of Midnight |
Ultimate, PC |
Console, PC |
|
April 9 |
Commandos: Origins |
Ultimate, PC |
Cloud, Console, PC |
|
April 9 |
Descenders Next |
Ultimate, PC |
Cloud, Console, PC |
|
April 10 |
Blue Prince |
Standard, Ultimate, PC |
Cloud, Console, PC |
|
April 17 |
Tempopo |
Ultimate, PC |
Cloud, Console, PC |
|
April 24 |
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 |
Ultimate, PC |
Console, PC |
Each title mentioned above is making its debut on Game Pass and there are a few standout entries. Kicking things off is South of Midnight, set to launch on April 8. This Soulslike game immerses players in a Southern Gothic world, where the protagonist, Hazel, must confront mythical beings in her quest to restore a damaged tapestry following a catastrophic storm. With its striking visual style akin to stop-motion animation, South of Midnight promises to deliver a captivating adventure.
On April 9, players can dive into Descenders Next, an extreme sports game that challenges players with various snowy and urban environments for skiing, snowboarding, and skateboarding. Following closely is Tempopo on April 17, a vibrant rhythm-puzzle game where players rejuvenate dying flowers with musical creatures. Developed by the talented Witch Beam, known for their previous hit, Unpacking, this title blends fun gameplay with stunning visuals.
Lastly, on April 24, prepare to experience the turn-based RPG Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. Drawing inspiration from classic games such as Final Fantasy and Persona, this title unfolds in a fantasy rendition of Belle Époque France, inviting players to delve into a compelling narrative filled with mystery and tactical challenges.
Titles Departing from Game Pass in April
Farewell: Yakuza, Monster Hunter, and More
As we welcome new titles, we must also say goodbye to some beloved games. On April 1, 2025, the following titles will no longer be available on Game Pass:
- Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged
- The Lamplighters League
- Lil Gator Game
- Monster Hunter Rise
- Open Roads
- Yakuza 0
- Yakuza Kiwami
- Yakuza Kiwami 2
- Yakuza: Like A Dragon
The departure of several titles from the Yakuza/Like A Dragon series is particularly significant, as four games from this acclaimed franchise—covering the prequel, remakes, and a reboot—will leave the service all at once. With these removals, Game Pass will be lacking in Yakuza content, especially after recent departures of titles like Ishin and Like A Dragon Gaiden. Subscribers should consider purchasing these titles at discounted rates if they wish to experience the full series.
Another notable loss is Monster Hunter Rise, a co-op action RPG that garnered praise for its invigorating combat against colossal monsters. The hope remains that additional titles like Monster Hunter Wilds will soon make their way to Game Pass.
In addition, The Lamplighters League offers a fun tactical RPG experience set against a charming 1930s backdrop, emphasizing character synergy in combat. Lil Gator Game, with its delightful platforming adventure, is perfect for a relaxing gaming session. Finally, Open Roads stands out as an engaging interactive mystery adventure featuring a star-studded cast tackling deeply personal family narratives. Both Lil Gator Game and Open Roads are shorter games that players can conveniently complete prior to their departures.
That wraps up our current insights into Microsoft’s plans for Game Pass in April. Stay tuned to your Game Pass homepage for any forthcoming announcements regarding additional new additions or removals throughout the month.