Xbox Game Pass subscribers are used to games coming and going from the service's library of titles. Xbox is constantly seeking partnerships to bring games to Xbox Game Pass, but those contracts are frequently temporary by design. That means that major third-party Xbox Game Pass additions all reach the end of their availability eventually. Such is the case with one of the service's biggest Xbox Game Pass sports games, as NBA 2K22 appears to be leaving Xbox Game Pass at the end of August.
Multiple Xbox Game Pass users are reporting on social media that the Xbox Game Pass app dropped a notification confirming NBA 2K22 is coming to the end of its availability. The message reads, "NBA 2K22 heads back to the bench on 31 August," and follows that up with a message encouraging players to purchase the full game for 20% off. Those enjoying NBA 2K22 on Xbox Game Pass will have to make the most of the upcoming weeks.
While the message appears authentic, there's still some question regarding whether it's wholly accurate. For one, the message has only been shared on the Xbox Game Pass app and isn't confirmed through other Xbox media channels. Further, it's unclear if the message is intended for a specific region or all Xbox Game Pass subscribers. There's also the possibility that it was sent in error, too.
It does seem somewhat odd that NBA 2K22 would leave Xbox Game Pass. It was only added to the service's library of games at the end of April, meaning it's only been available for Xbox Game Pass subscribers for around three and a half months. A fourth-month stint on Xbox Game Pass isn't unheard of, but it's surprising for such a large game. It's especially unfortunate given there are no other basketball games available on Xbox Game Pass.
There are, of course, plenty of Xbox Game Pass and basketball fans that are completely fine with NBA 2K22 leaving the service, believing it isn't a good fit. NBA 2K22 is a massive 120GB download, which isn't exactly optimal for a subscription service that encourages browsing and trying different games. NBA 2K22 is also heavily criticized for certain design decisions and its monetization.
Regardless, basketball game fans should likely begin to plan around NBA 2K22 leaving the service as of August 31. Perhaps it's a miscommunication and Xbox Game Pass subscribers will be able to keep playing NBA 2K22 going forward, but it seems unlikely. Otherwise, it's an opportunity for basketball fans to tell Xbox that they want more sports games on Xbox Game Pass.