After a remarkably strong 2021, Xbox Game Pass is beginning the new year with another impressive selection being added to the service. In particular, it's already apparent from this month's free games that EA Play's link with Game Pass remains strong. Mass Effect: Legendary Edition is now available via Game Pass and includes remastered versions of the original three Mass Effect games and all of their DLC. As such, the list of potential games we might see on the service in the future is growing and growing.
Another big addition to the Xbox Game Pass is Outer Wilds, and so subscribers to the service can finally check out the hype over this game. One of the major benefits of gaming subscription services is not just the access to AAA titles, but also the chance to explore other types of games from different developers. January's games for Game Pass have an especially good selection for platformer fans, with a mix of styles and genres that emphasize the range of platformer games. Three of the Game Pass January games should be on every platformer fan's radar, and will likely appeal to any player who enjoys the challenge and simplicity of platformers.
Spelunky 2
Sequel to 2008's Spelunky, Spelunky 2 follows Ana, who travels to the moon to find her missing parents, one of which is the main character from the first game. As you might imagine, the gameplay in this 2D platformer revolves around spelunking/exploring caves. As a roguelike game, dying in Spelunky 2 will send Ana back to the beginning of the cave system. First released in 2020, Spelunky 2 has been praised for its huge improvements over the first game, and for its addicting and fun gameplay loop. This sequel also introduces various new monsters, traps, and a multiplayer mode.
The Pedestrian
The Pedestrian is a unique platformer that aims to present enjoyable puzzle challenges to solve. The game consists of various signs that can be manipulated to allow the playable "pedestrian" figure to travel through them. The premise is easy to get to grips with, and while the concept is simple, there is a degree of sophistication to the puzzles presented along the way in The Pedestrian. Obviously, some interest in solving puzzles is needed to truly enjoy this game, but other than that, it's pretty easy for anyone to pick up and have a go at. The Pedestrian is a well-made and accessible platformer, that has a unique form and an impressive look.
Olija
For something entirely different, platformer fans can pick up Olija for a more traditional platformer experience, complete with a heavily pixelated art style. Player's assume control of Lord Faraday, who attempts to leave the hostile country of Terraphage after being shipwrecked there.
A lot of care has been taken when it comes to Olija's style and gameplay, which makes it overall a very satisfying play. The game originally released in January 2021, and received positive reviews based on its art style and overall mood. A familiarity with old-school platformers is definitely a benefit in picking this game up, but it offers a nice, stylish peek into the creative possibilities of platformers, as do the other three platformers Game Pass had added this month.
One of the Xbox Game Pass' biggest benefits is the wide variety of genres and game styles that it offers up each month. While this allows players to choose based on what they most prefer, it also gives an opportunity to gamers to check out different games they may not have otherwise. While platformer fans should certainly check out the titles on offer from Game Pass, players who are less familiar with this style still have plenty of opportunities to find the game that makes it worth exploring a different genre.