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After a strong lineup in July, Xbox Game Pass is adding some intriguing new games to its library this August. From the challenging and charming platformer Celeste to the pulse-pounding shooter Everspace 2, there’s something for every type of gamer. And don’t forget about the retro-inspired RPG Sea of Stars that’s sure to transport you to another world. With such an incredible lineup, you won’t be able to put your controller down!
Celeste (Console, PC, Cloud) – August 1
Developed and published by indie game studio Maddy Makes Games, Celeste is a delightfully challenging platformer that offers players a blood-pumping sense of accomplishment when they conquer its incredibly difficult challenges.
In the game, the player takes on the role of Madeline, a young trans woman who struggles with anxiety and depression. Her goal is to climb Celeste Mountain.
The game provides a fair amount of replay value with the addition of alternate levels (called B sides) and hidden strawberries that can be collected throughout the campaign.
The game’s graphics are a treat for the eyes, with each level taking Madeline to new and imaginative places such as a dreamscape or hotel room. This visual creativity is a huge reason why the game has become so popular.
Broforce Forever (Console, TBD) – August 8
Published by Devolver Digital and developed by Free Lives, Broforce Forever is an exciting game that puts you in control of an underfunded, overpowered paramilitary organization that deals exclusively with excessive force.
Although Broforce Forever was initially released in 2015, the developers and the publishers have kept updating the game over the years. However, the final update of Broforce Forever will be released on August 8, 2023, and will not be updated anymore.
The new update will add six new bros: Xebro: Warrior Princess, Demoition Bro, Burt Brommer, Seth Brondle, Broffy The Vampire Slayer, and Desperabro.
In addition to online co-op and deathmatch mode for up to four players, Broforce features a range of game modes, including an explosion-filled race mode.
The sidescrolling platformer is a riot of ludicrous puns, ’80s movie references, and pixelated action. The player can also earn more playable characters by rescuing prisoners of war from cells dotted around each level; each new character has its own special powers.
Everspace 2 (Series X, Series S) – August 15
If you are a space shooter fan, you should look at Everspace 2! This game is packed with non-stop action, exploration, and tons of loot to collect. And the best part? You get to experience a captivating story in a beautifully crafted open world full of surprises and dangers. So, what are you waiting for? Embark on your journey to becoming human in this unforgettable adventure!
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (Console, PC, TBD) – August 18
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is actually based on The Texas Chainsaw Massacre franchise, and it was created by Sumo Nottingham and published by Gun Interactive. The game has cooperative gameplay and player-versus-player combat.
There are also interesting facts to know about the game, such as the developers at Gun Interactive went to extreme lengths to ensure that the game lived up to the film. They traveled to the filming locations and took over 10,000 reference photos, and sourced the exact make and model of the chainsaw used in the movie. They even hired a sound expert to replicate the nightmarish sounds that were so integral to the original movie’s success.
Overall, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is definitely a great game you need to take a look at if you are a fan of horror movies and video games. It will be released on August 18 and will have its place in the Xbox Game Pass library from day one.
Sea of Stars (Console, TBD) – August 29
Sea of Stars is a turn-based RPG with a retro-inspired look from Sabotage Studio, creators of The Messenger. The game will be released on August 29, 2023, and will be available for Xbox Game Pass members from day one.
Sea of Stars follows Valere and Zale, two children who use Eclipse Magic to fight off the monstrous creations of an evil alchemist called The Fleshmancer.
The game has a compelling world to explore and features engaging turn-based combat with timing, combo attacks, boosting, and spell-breaking. Players can also explore temples filled with 3D platforming challenges and conquer challenging Void Puzzles.
