Since the service launched in 2017, Xbox Game Pass has been a great home for indie games thanks to Microsoft constantly bringing in independent titles. Many of the best games to launch on Game Pass in the past few years have been indie titles, with some remaining exclusive to the Xbox platform. One such game seems to be Echo Generation, a voxel-art RPG coming exclusively to Xbox Game Pass just in time for Halloween next month.
Echo Generation was first announced during Xbox's July 2020 games showcase, where it gained immediate attention for its 3D pixel (or voxel) art style along with its Stranger Things-like nostalgia influence. The game received even more attention when developer Cococucumber released a demo for it during The Game Awards in December 2020, which was playable on PC, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. The game immediately drew comparisons to the likes of EarthBound thanks to its turn-based combat and 90s setting.
Since this demo released, developer Cococucumber went silent regarding Echo Generation, releasing no trailers and appearing at no major events throughout the year. Thankfully, it appears that this was for the best as the developer revealed a new trailer for the game today alongside the announcement that it will release on October 21st for PC and Xbox platforms. The trailer, which once again highlights the game's unique style, reveals that the story will likely take some very bizarre directions, with a Metal Gear-like mech appearing at one point and some creepy looking monsters appearing along the way.
As previously mentioned, Echo Generation is a turn-based RPG that seems to take influence from the likes of EarthBound and Undertale, as the game's trailer showcases some rhythm game sequences during combat similar to the recently released Deltarune Chapter 2. The game will mix real-time gameplay mechanics with its turn-based combat and features an electronic/synth-wave soundtrack to recapture the vibe of its 1990s influences.
Being set in 90s Canada, Echo Generation seems like it will take a similar approach to games like South Park: The Stick of Truth and Yakuza: Like a Dragon in its approach to recontextualizing its scenarios into fun RPG battles. The game joins a host of new independent titles releasing on Xbox Game Pass in October such as The Good Life, Into the Pit, and Moonglow Bay, alongside heavy hitting AAA titles like Back 4 Blood.
Echo Generation will release on PC, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S on October 21st 2021. The game will also be part of Xbox Game Pass.