Xbox Game Pass Is a Ridiculously Good Deal for RPG Fans Right Now

As a long-time PC gamer, I've always relied on Steam sales to keep my game library fresh without breaking the bank. While I was aware of Xbox Game Pass, it never seemed compelling enough for me to subscribe—until yesterday. The surprise release of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered by Bethesda and Virtuos directly onto Game Pass was a game-changer. Despite the rumors, the actual announcement was thrilling. And with Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 from Sandfall Interactive, a JRPG-inspired gem, joining the lineup tomorrow, Microsoft has finally won me over as a dedicated RPG enthusiast.

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Both Hit Game Pass This Week

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate – 1 Month Membership – Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows, Cloud Gaming Devices [Digital Code]

$19.99 at Amazon

On April 22, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered was not only revealed but also released on PC, consoles, and Game Pass. I spent most of that day downloading the game and the night reveling in its enchanting music. The remaster boasts new character models, enhanced combat interactions, and updated visual effects. While Virtuos brought in over five new voice actors, they wisely retained the original's delightfully quirky dialogue. The base edition of the remaster is priced at $49.99, including the original DLCs, with a deluxe edition available for an additional $10.

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered Screenshots

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On the other hand, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 marks the eagerly anticipated debut from French studio Sandfall Interactive. Launching tonight at 12am PST in the U.S., it has garnered a stellar 92 rating on Metacritic. IGN's 9/10 review lauded its story design, calling it "a true modern throwback." The game's stylish UI echoes the Persona series, and its turn-based combat system is nothing short of innovative. Like the Bethesda remaster, the base edition of Expedition 33 is priced at $49.99.

While Expedition 33 was initially set to be the highlight of April’s Game Pass lineup, the unexpected release of Oblivion Remastered has cast a shadow over the indie game's launch. However, I see it as a win-win situation. Instead of spending $100 on two new games, I opted for a $20 Game Pass Ultimate subscription. Now, the only challenge is finding time to step away from the screen.

Game Pass has been expanding its library with major titles like Blue Prince, South of Midnight, and Avowed, alongside classics such as GTA V and the entire Call of Duty series. Truly, there's something for everyone on the service.

Game Pass Is a Ridiculously Good Deal Right Now

Game Pass Ultimate is priced at $19.99/month, offering access to the entire Game Pass library across console, PC, and cloud gaming. The PC-exclusive Game Pass is a more affordable $9.99/month. The Standard and Core subscription tiers, at $14.99/month and $9.99/month respectively, do not include day-one releases. The last price increase for Game Pass occurred in July 2024, and with the recent high-profile game launches, another hike might be on the horizon.

Although there are no current Game Pass deals, purchasing a three-month subscription could shield you from future price increases. For deals on other platforms, check out our roundup of PS5, PC, and Switch offers. Also, don't miss out on the U.S. preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2, going live tonight.