There are a number of reasons for Xbox fans to sign up for Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass service. Chief among these is the fact that Xbox Game Pass gives subscribers instant access to over 100 games. This includes many older titles that have released for Xbox over the years, but it also includes brand new, day one releases, and that is truly one of the biggest draws for the Game Pass service. Each month brings with it new day one Xbox Game Pass games, and October 2021 is no different.
Microsoft likes to announce the new Xbox Game Pass games for each month in batches, usually highlighting the next two weeks of games at the beginning of the month and then the second batch in the middle of the month. Considering this, there are likely numerous day one Xbox Game Pass games coming in October of 2021 that haven’t even been announced yet, and so subscribers should keep that in mind.
However, there are three games so far that have been confirmed as day one Xbox Game Pass games. This includes one game that was previously available for PC but is making its console debut, a PC exclusive, and a game that will be available for Xbox Game Pass across both console and PC.
Phoenix Point (October 1)
Phoenix Point is the latest game from the creator of X-COM, and like X-COM, it is a turn-based strategy title. But instead of a science-fiction game where players are fighting back against an alien invasion, they are instead rallying against a supernatural force comprised of Lovecraftian monsters. Phoenix Point has been available for Xbox Game Pass on PC for quite some time, but now that the game is making its console debut, it’s doing so on Game Pass.
Back 4 Blood (October 12)
Left 4 Dead spiritual successor Back 4 Blood is set to launch on October 12, and when it does, it will be available for Xbox Game Pass right off the bat. Back 4 Blood is a co-op game all about killing massive hordes of zombies, and its availability on Xbox Game Pass should make it easier than ever for players to squad up with their friends. Xbox Game Pass has been known to do wonders for games with an online-focus, and it will be interesting to see if it gives a boost to Back 4 Blood when it launches next month.
Age of Empires 4 (October 28)
Microsoft’s Age of Empires franchise has been one of its most critically-acclaimed series over the years, but it’s been effectively dormant for quite some time, with Age of Empires 3 originally launching all the way back in 2005. The long hiatus for the Age of Empires franchise will soon be coming to an end, and PC players with Xbox Game Pass can soon try Age of Empires 4 without even having to pay full price.
