Game Pass or Pass

After a year packed with Game Pass drops, sequels, surprises, and a few wild swings, it is time to settle it. This is our Game of the Year 2025 episode.In this special episode of Game Pass or Pass, we break down every game that made our final nomination list and debate which one truly defined 2025 not just on paper but in how it felt to play.Our Game of the Year 2025 nominees areBalatroClair Obscur Expedition 33PowerWash Simulator 2Monster Train 2Tony Hawk Pro Skater 3 and 4Lost in Random The Eternal DieAvowedBall X PitDoom The Dark AgesAtomfallNinja Gaiden 2 BlackWe discussWhy each of these games earned a nominationWhich titles surprised us the mostHow Game Pass shaped our time with many of these gamesThe difference between most impressive and most unforgettableAnd which game ultimately rose above the restThis episode is not about consensus. It is about perspective. Whether you agree with our final pick or think we are completely wrong, this is our full breakdown of what made 2025 such a memorable year for gaming. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week we dive into PowerWash Simulator 2, the long-anticipated sequel that finally launched in October 2025 and arrived day-one on Xbox Game Pass. We explore whether this follow-up keeps the relaxing magic of the first game or if it leans too heavily on the formula.In this episode, we break down:How the core loop evolves across 38 full jobs throughout Caldera County, with multi-stage tasks and larger, more complex environmentsThe expanded toolset: adjustable nozzles, surface cleaners, scissor lifts, and abseiling gear that add depth without overcomplicating the “power wash zen” the series is known forMajor multiplayer upgrades, including cross-play co-op, shared campaign progress, and split-screen local optionsThe new customizable “home base” that lets you decorate, store gear, and personalize your spaceLong-term support and whether the game feels built for regular content drops, DLC, and replay valueThen we ask the real question: does PowerWash Simulator 2 offer enough freshness to stand above the original, or is it simply a more polished version of what fans already love?Tune in for our full breakdown — and whether we say play it or pass it. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sometimes Game Pass drops something serious, sometimes something cinematic… and sometimes it drops a game where you launch balls into a pit and cause absolute mayhem. This week, we’re talking about Ball X Pit, a deceptively simple arcade-style title that’s all about physics-driven chaos, fast scoring, and “one more try” addiction.In this episode of Game Pass or Pass, we break down what makes Ball X Pit work—and what doesn’t:The core gameplay loop and why it’s weirdly satisfying despite being so simpleHow the game ramps difficulty and unlocks new ball types, hazards, and pit modifiersWhether the physics feel tight and intentional or more on the unpredictable, goofy sideIf the game has enough depth to keep you hooked, or if it runs out of steam fastIs Ball X Pit the kind of score-chasing, dopamine-hit arcade fun that deserves a spot in your rotation? Or is it just another Game Pass curiosity you’ll play once and forget? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As we roll into the end of 2025, Xbox feels like it’s in the weirdest place it’s ever been.In this episode of Game Pass or Pass, we sit down and talk through the massive shift Microsoft made at the start of October 2025: the full Xbox Game Pass revamp with new tiers (Essential, Premium, and Ultimate), the 50% price hike on Ultimate to $29.99/month, the jump in PC Game Pass pricing, and the confusing split between day-one releases on Ultimate versus “within a year” access on other tiers. We break down what each tier actually gets you now, how that compares to just a couple of years ago, and why the current structure feels so wild and hard to message to normal players. We also dig into the broader context that got Xbox here: another major round of layoffs, around 9,000 jobs across Microsoft with thousands tied to Xbox; the closure of The Initiative; and the cancellation of high-profile first-party projects like Perfect Dark and Everwild, plus heavy cuts at Turn 10 and other studios. We talk honestly about how all of that undercuts the “we care about creators” messaging, and how it collides with Microsoft’s push toward a more PC-centric, multi-platform strategy where Xbox games show up on PlayStation, Switch, and Windows as services rather than true console exclusives. From there, we zoom out and look at where Game Pass sits going into 2026:Is Ultimate still worth the money after the price hikes and restructuring? PC Gamer+1Does the new tier setup actually give players “more choice,” or just more confusion? What does Game Pass look like in a world where Microsoft is clearly prioritizing Windows, cloud, and publishing on competing hardware over building a strong console identity?We close the episode by looking across the aisle at PlayStation’s future hardware plans. Sony’s CFO is now on record saying PS5 is only “in the middle of its journey,” while leaks and reporting continue to point toward a PlayStation 6 sometime in the later part of this decade and a Switch-style PS6 handheld that’s designed around backward compatibility with PS4 and PS5 titles. We talk about what a PS6 and PS6 handheld could mean for Xbox’s next console, and whether Microsoft’s current moves put them in a better place for that fight—or a weaker one. By the end of it, we’re asking a simple question with a messy answer: Is Game Pass still the best deal in gaming, or is Microsoft burning a lot of goodwill right as the next generation starts to come into view? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Two very different games. One episode.In this week’s Game Pass or Pass, we’re taking a look at the upcoming dark action RPG Wuchang: Fallen Feathers and the hands-on creativity of Spray Paint Simulator. They couldn’t be further apart in tone, but both raise the question: does uniqueness automatically mean quality?We discuss:Wuchang: Fallen Feathers – How its Soulslike combat, plague-ridden setting, and folklore-driven narrative stack up against heavy hitters like Elden Ring and Lies of P. Does its style and atmosphere carry enough weight to stand on its own?Spray Paint Simulator – A completely different vibe, focusing on freedom of expression through tagging, murals, and customization. Is it a laid-back creative sandbox, or just another niche sim with limited staying power?The strange contrast of covering these two back-to-back, and what that says about the variety Game Pass offers.Which one we think has a stronger shot at holding player attention long-term.Do either of these titles have what it takes to be more than a curiosity on Game Pass? Or are they destined to fade into the backlog? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We kick off this episode with a write-in discussion on the recent Microsoft layoffs and game cancellations, including the uncertainty around projects like Perfect Dark. It’s a tough conversation about the state of Xbox, studios, and what this means for players moving forward.In this episode of Game Pass or Pass, we dive in deep on the remaster’s biggest questions:Skating remade, but gospel intact: How Iron Galaxy rebuilt classic parks in stunning 4K, added new levels like Waterpark, Pinball, and Movie Studio, and expanded Create-A-Park tools—without losing that signature two-minute trick combo rush.More than nostalgia: New game modes—including New Game+—cross-platform multiplayer for up to eight players, fresh unlockables, and enhanced creation tools give it surprisingly lasting appeal.Trick-filled surprises: Guest skaters like TMNT’s Michelangelo are finally playable, alongside the Doom Slayer and modern pros like Riley Hawk—Tony’s real-life son, now skating in-game and making his mark in the family legacy.What fans are saying: Critics praise its faithful feel and presentation, although some note that THPS 4’s original open-ended career design was simplified back into traditional level progression.Does Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 stand as the skater’s rightful return, or does it skate by on nostalgia alone? Tune in to hear our full breakdown of how this remaster rides the line between reverence and reinvention. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What happens when you mix stop-motion-inspired visuals, card-based combat, and a dice companion that can literally change your fate? You get Lost in Random: The Eternal Die — a bizarre, Tim Burton-esque action-adventure that’s equal parts whimsical and unsettling.In this episode of Game Pass or Pass, we dive into:How the dice-rolling mechanic impacts combat pacing and strategyThe blend of real-time action with deck-building and why it’s unlike most Game Pass titlesThe dark fairy tale world design and how it elevates the game’s atmosphereWhether the story and gameplay loop hold up through the entire journey or start to feel repetitiveHow “The Eternal Die” expansion adds new layers to the original and if it’s worth revisitingIs Lost in Random: The Eternal Die a hidden gem on Game Pass, or just a stylish curiosity that runs out of luck? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

n this episode of Game Pass or Pass, we put on the gear and hit the streets with two procedural-heavy sims: Firefighting Simulator: The Squad and Police Simulator: Patrol Officers — both from the same publisher, both promising realism and co-op-friendly gameplay.But what we found was... odd. These games aim for authenticity, but somehow miss the mark in both realism and gameplay depth. They're not exactly arcade, not exactly sim — just somewhere in between.We break down:The moment-to-moment gameplay and why it can feel more like following a checklist than fighting fires or solving crimesThe inconsistent tone — realistic job settings mixed with strange AI, clunky animations, and mechanics that don’t quite reflect real-world proceduresWhether there's enough content and progression to keep players engaged past the first few missionsHow they compare to other Game Pass co-op or sim-style titlesAre these chill, low-stakes co-op options worth a download — or do they fall flat trying to simulate something they don’t fully commit to? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rip and tear… but this time with a flail and shield.In this episode of Game Pass or Pass, we break down everything we know so far about DOOM: The Dark Ages, the next brutal entry in id Software’s iconic franchise — and it’s unlike anything we’ve seen before.Set in a dark medieval world, this prequel to 2016’s DOOM reinvents the Slayer as a knight-like figure, battling demonic hordes with brutal melee weapons, heavy siege-inspired firearms, and a rideable cybernetic dragon.We cover:Gameplay evolution: How id is blending high-speed FPS mechanics with grounded, gritty close-quarters combat — and what that means for longtime fansNew weapons: Including the shield-saw (think Captain America meets chainsaw) and a bone-shattering flail built for crowd control and brutalitySetting and tone: A complete shift from sci-fi Mars to a gothic, hell-torn kingdom that feels part Dark Souls, part DOOM EternalThe Dragon: Yes, the Slayer rides a biomechanical dragon into battleDesign philosophy: Why id says this is their most cinematic, story-rich DOOM yet, without sacrificing speed or savagery  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Xbox just dropped its Summer Showcase 2025, and we’re breaking down what that means for Game Pass players.In this reaction episode, we cover:Hardware reveal: Xbox-branded Asus ROG Ally and Ally X handhelds — portable Game Pass everywhere 🎮Big game drops: The Outer Worlds 2 (Oct 29, day‑one), High on Life 2 (Winter 2025), Super Meat Boy 3D (early 2026), Ninja Gaiden 4, Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 & moreIndie & RPG surprises: Clockwork Revolution, Beast of Reincarnation, Keeper from Double FineRemasters & DLC: Gears of War: Reloaded (Aug 26), new Persona 4 Revival, Grounded 2, Fallout 76 DLC, and Sea of Thieves Season 17We’re unpacking:What Game Pass subscribers should be most excited aboutWhether Xbox delivered more substance than flashWhich announcements define Xbox’s roadmap through 2026🔥 Was this a showcase that lives up to the hype — or are the real headlines hiding between the trailers? Tune in for our full breakdown. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The train from hell is back — and it’s brought more cards, more chaos, and way more combos.In this episode of Game Pass or Pass, we dive deep into Monster Train 2, the sequel to one of the most addictive roguelike deckbuilders in recent memory. With new clans, refined mechanics, and a surprising twist on multiplayer, is this sequel just more of the same — or a worthy evolution?We cover:How Monster Train 2 improves (or doesn’t) on the originalNew mechanics and clan synergies worth learningHow it stacks up against Slay the Spire and other deckbuildersWhether it’s friendly to newcomers or strictly for veterans🚂 Is Monster Train 2 the best roguelike deckbuilder on Xbox Game Pass, or did it miss its stop? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Surprise announcement or long time coming?In this bonus episode of Game Pass or Pass, we break down the recent news that Microsoft is increasing prices on Xbox Series X consoles and first-party games.We get into:What’s changing and whenWhy Microsoft is making these moves nowHow it stacks up against Sony and Nintendo’s pricing strategiesWhat it means for the value of Game Pass moving forward Is this the beginning of the end for Game Pass’s “best deal in gaming” reputation — or just the cost of doing business in 2025? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A deadly painter. A cursed number. A world slowly being wiped from existence.Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 drops players into one of the most visually striking turn-based RPGs in years — where every brushstroke is a weapon and every year could be your last. Inspired by Final Fantasy and Persona, but drenched in surrealist French art, this is a game that’s not afraid to get weird — or emotional.In this episode of Game Pass or Pass, we dive into:The unique mix of turn-based strategy and real-time input mechanicsThe stunning visual style and what it brings to the genreHow its worldbuilding and narrative stack up against genre classicsWhether this ambitious title lives up to the hype — or paints itself into a corner🖌️ Is Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 a true Game Pass gem — or just style over substance? Find out now. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A nuclear disaster, a quarantined countryside, and something lurking beyond the fog — Atomfall drops players into a chilling alt-history Britain, blending survival horror with open-world exploration.In this episode of Game Pass or Pass, we dig into the atmosphere-heavy world of Atomfall:Does its survival crafting loop feel rewarding or repetitive?How well does Atomfall’s eerie setting stack up against classics like Fallout or S.T.A.L.K.E.R.?Is Atomfall’s slow-burn pacing a feature or a flaw?With a strong emphasis on story, scavenging, and staying alive, Atomfall is aiming for something big — but does it stick the landing?🛑 Listen in to find out if this post-apocalyptic adventure deserves a spot on your Game Pass download list, or if it’s better left buried. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Game Pass or Pass, we break down why Balatro is far more than a gimmick. With combo-stacking strategy, addictive progression, and just enough chaos to keep every run fresh, this game turns your brain into a bluffing machine.Whether you’re a poker veteran or a card game rookie, there’s a lot to unpack:Is Balatro just a trend ride, or does it have real staying power?How does its roguelike structure stand out from Slay the Spire clones?Is it worth your time on Xbox Game Pass, or just a passing hand?Find out if this card-slinging chaos is a Game Pass… or a pass. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

AI is stepping off the sidelines and into your controller.In this episode of Game Pass or Pass, we dive into Microsoft’s new Xbox Copilot for Gaming, a groundbreaking accessibility tool that uses AI to assist players in real-time. Whether you're tackling tricky sections, learning mechanics, or just exploring a game world, Copilot offers a second set of hands — or brains.But what does this mean for the future of AI in gaming?We explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping:Game accessibilityNPC behavior and dialogueProcedural content generationPersonalized gameplay experiencesFrom tools like Xbox Copilot to next-gen AI companions and story engines, we discuss how developers are leveraging machine learning to create smarter, more adaptive games.🎙️ Is AI the next evolution in gaming — or a step too far? Hit play and find out. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Get ready for neon-soaked chaos, synth-heavy gunfights, and pure retro-future adrenaline — this week we’re diving headfirst into Mullet Mad Jack. This over-the-top, roguelite FPS throws you into a 90s anime-inspired hellscape where your life literally depends on how many likes you get.With a ticking time bomb of dopamine addiction, every kill buys you seconds. Every missed shot? A step closer to digital doom. But does the frenetic gameplay loop keep you coming back, or does the madness wear off fast?We talk pacing, weapon variety, style vs. substance, and whether Mullet Mad Jack earns a place in your Game Pass library — or if it should fade into the retro-futuristic void. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Game Pass or Pass, Cory and Bronson take a deep dive into Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled, the full remake of the PlayStation classic. With a fresh coat of paint and modern refinements, does this nostalgic kart racer still hold up, or has time left it in the dust?Topics covered in this episode:Visual Overhaul: The updated graphics bring new life to classic tracks and characters—does it add to the experience?Gameplay & Mechanics: The signature power-slide boost system sets CTR apart from other kart racers—does it still feel great today?Content & Replayability: With tracks from Crash Nitro Kart, multiple modes, and customization, is there enough to keep players engaged?Challenge & AI: The game is known for its tough AI and high skill ceiling—does it make the game more rewarding or frustrating?Microtransactions & Post-Launch Changes: How do they affect the overall experience, and are they a deal-breaker?Cory and Bronson break it all down and decide if Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled is worth your time or if it’s a pass. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we dive into Avowed, the upcoming RPG from Obsidian Entertainment. This game promises to offer a unique experience, combining a structured, linear world with immersive combat and a strong emphasis on story. We explore how the weighty combat mechanics and the game’s more focused, structured world differ from the sprawling open-world experiences many RPGs offer.One of the most exciting aspects of Avowed is its combat. The game leans into a real sense of weight and impact with every attack. The combat feels deliberate and strategic, with each strike and spell having a tangible effect on enemies. There’s a heavy emphasis on tactical decision-making, with real-time action combined with elements that require players to pause and consider their next move. This blend of fluid combat and thoughtful strategy gives the game a sense of depth that is missing in many other RPGs.Unlike many modern RPGs that lean heavily into massive open worlds, Avowed presents a more linear, structured environment. The world is expansive but intentionally designed to guide players through rich environments with a strong narrative backbone. Instead of sprawling expanses with endless side missions, the game offers more focused exploration, which means every area has a purpose in the overall story. This design approach allows for more detailed, handcrafted locations and a deeper, more engaging experience where each moment feels important.Additionally, Avowed is being developed using Unreal Engine 5, which means players can expect stunning visuals and cutting-edge technology. The engine’s capabilities allow for realistic lighting, detailed textures, and a world that feels alive and immersive. With UE5, the game promises to deliver smooth animations, lifelike environments, and impressive effects that will bring the world of Eora to life in ways we've never seen before.If you’re a fan of RPGs with tactical combat, a structured world that doesn’t overwhelm you, and cutting-edge visuals, Avowed could be your next big adventure. Tune in to see if it’s a Game Pass or Pass! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we talk about Metal Slug Tactics, a tactical strategy game that brings the Metal Slug franchise into a new genre. We dive into the grind, difficulty, and whether it’s more of a puzzle game than you’d expect.Metal Slug Tactics isn’t a game you can rush through. It requires patience, strategy, and time. The difficulty is steep, with enemies coming at you in waves. Tactical decisions need to be calculated, and you’ll spend a lot of time leveling up units and grinding for better equipment.It’s not just a tactical RPG; it has puzzle-like elements. Each mission forces you to think ahead—positioning units, using cover, and managing resources. One wrong move can cost you, making it feel like solving a puzzle.The game features grid-based combat with strategic positioning, unit customization, and a challenging difficulty that requires time and effort.Metal Slug Tactics is a tactical grind with puzzle-like challenges. If you enjoy strategic combat where every move counts, it’s definitely worth checking out—but be prepared for a steep learning curve. Is it a Game Pass or Pass? Tune in to find out! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.