Xbox Showcase Just Proved How Important Game Pass Is (& Why It's A Problem)

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Xbox Game Pass is arguably the best deal in gaming right now. Since Microsoft debuted the service in 2017, many have hailed it as a win for consumers. One of the major draws of the service was the company’s promise that any Xbox exclusive titles would be available on Game Pass at launch. Day-one access to exclusive games would normally be a major upside for any similar gaming subscription. While the offer still beats the subscription offerings of Sony and Nintendo in many respects, the lack of compelling exclusive games on Xbox is making that monthly commitment harder to justify.

For those invested in Xbox's ecosystem, the last couple of years seemed promising. Microsoft’s acquisition spree of hit-making developers such as Bethesda and id Software made it seem as though quality titles would soon be on their way to Xbox. However, this hasn’t really played out. received a lukewarm reception, often feeling dated and formulaic. Arkane Austin’s was such an unmitigated disaster on nearly every front that it prompted the Microsoft Gaming CEO to issue an apology. Just as it seemed like it couldn't get worse for the green brand, Xbox's Summer Showcase may signal a big comeback.

For those looking for something new to play on Xbox Game Pass in July, another day one title has been announced, and it sounds rather delicious!

Team Xbox certainly had to be feeling the heat leading up to this year's big Xbox Games Showcase, and it did not disappoint. The presentation received near-universal approval from critics and consumers, boasting an impressive list of must-play titles, most of which will be available at launch on the increasingly vital Game Pass service. Highlights include, a prequel exploring the series’ origins through a young Marcus Fenix and Dominic Santiago, and the resurrection of the franchise, a highly regarded, but often overlooked first-person shooter from developer Rare, now poised to step out from behind 's shadow.

The list of every day-one Game Pass release at