Playing the big Xbox Game Pass titles, like the first-party Microsoft games and the blockbuster releases, seems like a no-brainer. But there are plenty of underrated and under the radar games that deserve some attention as well. And thanks to Xbox Game Pass, these titles have a better chance of attracting an audience than they would have otherwise.
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So anyone that’s just picked up an Xbox Series X and is looking for underrated Game Pass games to play on their new console, here are 10 that caught our attention.
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Children of Morta
Out of all the games on this list,Children of Mortais one of the most addicting.Children of Mortais a roguelike game where players play as different members of theBergson family, each of which has their own unique abilities, stats, and skills. As the Bergsons, players attempt to make their way through procedurally-generated dungeons full of deadly traps and aggressive monsters, with death sending players back to the beginning of the stage. But like other roguelikes, players still make progress inChildren of Morta, even when they fail. The Bergson family members become increasingly stronger, making each run easier than the last, until players are finally able to reach the dungeon’s boss and proceed to the next stage.
Levelhead
There are a lot of2D platformersavailable on Xbox Game Pass, butLevelheadis one of the most notable.Levelheadis stuffed full of levels for players to complete, most all of which can be completed in co-op. But besides the levels that the developers themselves designed,Levelheadallows players to create their own levels as well as check out stages created by others. This givesLevelheadan endless stream of new content, which should keep players entertained as they try to master its more difficult challenges.
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Remnant: From the Ashes
From Software essentially created a new genre with its Soulsborne games, which are all based around ultra-tough bosses, unforgiving enemies, and unorthodox storytelling.Remnant: From the Ashesclearly takes inspiration from From Software’s work, but puts its own spin on things.Remnantsupports co-op with up to three players who can work together to face the game’s many monstrosities. It also has a focus on guns instead of melee combat, which is quite the change of pace from what fans typically encounter in Soulsborne-style games.
Ryse: Son of Rome
Most of the games on this list are indie titles with comparatively low budgets when compared to the bigger blockbuster releases, butRyse: Son of Romeis an exception.Ryse: Son of Romewas an Xbox One launch titlethat earned mixed reviews at the time of its release, with much of the criticism aimed at its short length and lack of replay value. Those are legitimate concerns when someone is having to pay full price for a game, but they’re less of a worry whenRysecan be selected out of the Xbox Game Pass lineup. Xbox Game Pass is the best way to experienceRyse: Son of Rome, and it will allow players to look past some of the game’s flaws and better-appreciate what it gets right, like its gorgeous graphics and compelling story.
Supraland
Supralandhas been out on PC for over a year, but it just recently made its console debut back in October. A first-person puzzle-platformer,Supralandis full of charm, with a sharp wit and clever puzzle design.Supraland’s level design is superb, constantly rewarding players for straying off the beaten path with new abilities and coins that can be used to buy upgrades. Fans of the genre should definitely consider checking it out on Xbox Game Pass.
The Touryst
The Tourystis one of the few games on this list that is actually beingoptimized for Xbox Series Xright out of the gate, so it’s one early adopters may want to keep an eye out.The Tourystconcept is a simple one, with players going on vacation and completing a variety of mini-games and puzzles. It’s a relaxing little game that can be completed in about five hours or so, but that makes it perfect for the Xbox Game Pass lineup.
Unruly Heroes
Unruly HeroescombinesRayman Legends' art style with beat ‘em up gameplay. Based on the classicJourney to the West,Unruly Heroesgives players access to four distinct characters as they fight monsters and complete platforming challenges. Yet another Xbox Game Pass local co-op game,Unruly Heroesis worth a look for anyone that likes beat ‘em ups or classic 2D platformers.
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