Xbox Game Pass has added two more titles, an action-adventure game called ANNO: Mutationem and the genre-bending roguelite puzzler Drop Duchy, for subscribers to enjoy. Microsoft’s subscription service is a go-to for many gamers thanks to its expansive library, cross-platform support, and wide variety of titles offered across a range of genres. Over the years, the Xbox Game Pass model has morphed into a multi-tiered ecosystem that spans PC, console, and handheld gaming on dedicated devices and mobile.
Part of what makes the subscription service appealing to gamers is how its tiers balance cost and content. Despite recent price hikes to Xbox Game Pass, many gamers still find at least one of the available subscription levels to be a good value proposition. Game Pass Essential, the lowest-priced tier, offers a curated selection of about 50 titles along with online multiplayer access for $9.99 per month. At the top, a Game Pass Ultimate subscription provides access to more than 500 releases, including many that are available on launch day, improved cloud streaming quality, and other benefits like Ubisoft+ Classics and Fortnite Crew.
Surprise Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Update Just Added 2 of the Best Games Ever Made
The latest update to the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate lineup gives subscribers access to two of the best games ever made.
Xbox Game Pass Adds 2 More Titles for Subscribers of Multiple Tiers
On January 28, Xbox Game Pass added both ANNO: Mutationem and Drop Duchy for subscribers of the Ultimate, Premium, and PC tiers to dive into. The first, an action-adventure game developed by ThinkingStars, offers a blend of action, exploration, and RPG mechanics in a cyberpunk world. With its combination of 2D and 3D pixelated graphics, ANNO: Mutationem puts players in the boots of Ann Flores, a combat-trained protagonist caught up in some corporate intrigue.
Originally released for Xbox consoles in late 2023, ANNO: Mutationem first debuted in March 2022 for PlayStation consoles and PC, with a later arrival on Nintendo Switch. Players have expressed appreciation for the game’s visual style, which combines pixel art with 3D environments, as well as its interesting story set against a backdrop of dystopian factions and conflict. On the hunt for her missing brother, Ann is skilled in fast-paced combat and interacts with a cast of quirky characters, from cyborgs to underground V-streamers.
In addition to the base game, those who enjoy the experience offered by ANNO: Mutationem can also grab the Collectors Upgrade Pack as an optional, paid add-on. It includes two special outfits, Cinnabar and Emerald, along with three weapons with particle effects: a light sword, greatsword, and twin blades. Buyers will also receive two weapon enhance chips, as well as a digital artbook and soundtrack.
Of course, ThinkingStars’ ANNO: Mutationem isn’t the only game Xbox Game Pass subscribers are getting on January 28. Drop Duchy is a roguelite puzzle game originally released in May 2025 for PC. Developer Sleepy Mill Studio’s deckbuilder has players dropping blocks Tetris-style, but the pieces represent land and structures for building a kingdom. Players will create wheat fields, chop down trees, recruit soldiers, and perform a variety of other activities to expand into new lands. But there is also a strategy element because enemy forces are also attempting to extend their reach, and players will finish out each round in battle.
The version of Drop Duchy coming to Xbox Game Pass is the Complete Edition, meaning subscribers will gain access to two DLC packs at no additional cost. The Tribe introduces a new faction that gives players more tools to build with, while The North brings a Viking-inspired faction with additional combat options. In total, players will have access to five factions and more than 110 cards to play with, as well as over 100 challenges with helpful rewards.
Also Coming Soon to Xbox Game Pass
|
Date |
Game |
Tier(s) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Jan 28 |
Anno: Mutationem |
Ultimate, Premium, PC |
|
|
Jan 28 |
Drop Duchy |
Ultimate, Premium, PC |
|
|
Jan 29 |
MySims: Cozy Bundle |
Ultimate, PC |
|
|
Jan 29 |
Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 |
Ultimate, Premium, PC |
|
|
Feb 2 |
Indika |
Ultimate, Premium, PC |
|
|
Feb 3 |
Final Fantasy 2 |
Ultimate, Premium, PC |
|
|
Feb 5 |
Menace |
Ultimate, PC |
Game Preview, day-one release |
|
Feb 13 |
High on Life 2 |
Ultimate, PC |
Day-one release |
|
Feb 26 |
Towerborne |
Premium |
Day-one release (Available in Game Preview since April 2025) |
|
Mar 12 |
Replaced |
Ultimate, PC |
Day-one release |
|
Mar 26 |
Nova Roma |
Ultimate, PC |
Day-one release |
|
May 19 |
Forza Horizon 6 |
Ultimate, PC |
Day-one release |