April is teeming with high-profile releases, but not every new title makes its way to Xbox Game Pass. With a library spanning nearly 900 games, Microsoft’s subscription service can feel just as overwhelming as scrolling through Netflix—you might find yourself spending more time browsing than actually playing. To save you the indecision, we’ve hand-picked three standout experiences worth diving into this weekend, featuring a pair of top-tier roguelikes and a revitalized sci-fi epic from Bethesda.
1
Hades 2
After a successful run on PC and Nintendo platforms, Hades 2 has officially arrived on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, granting console players everywhere access to Supergiant Games’ masterpiece. Stepping out of Zagreus’ shadow, you now embody his sister, Melinoë, as she embarks on a relentless quest through the Underworld to rescue her family. The gameplay loop is as addictive as ever, bolstered by a fresh arsenal of witchy weaponry and a returning cast of Greek deities ready to grant you powerful boons. It is arguably the gold standard for the roguelike genre; one run is rarely enough, consistently pulling you back in for “just one more.” — Austin Manchester
2
Absolum
If you think the beat-’em-up genre has run out of new ideas, Absolum is here to change your mind. While it wears the skin of a classic arcade brawler, it cleverly integrates roguelike progression, allowing you to customize your fighter with unique perks during every attempt. The level design rewards curiosity, packed with branching paths that encourage exploration—even if it costs you your life. Unearthing secrets is just as satisfying as the crunchy, visceral combat. By the time you reach the climactic showdown against the Sun King, the mechanical mastery you’ve developed makes the finale feel genuinely earned. — Giovanni Colantonio
3
Starfield
While space-faring adventures like Pragmata are dominating the conversation, Starfield has re-entered the spotlight this month with a substantial update aimed at addressing player feedback. The most notable addition is the ability to navigate between planets with newfound fluidity. While the core narrative remains a standard search for mysterious artifacts, the true joy of Starfield lies in its sandbox freedom. Whether you’re dealing with signature Bethesda-style quirks or simply enjoying the tranquil experience of drifting through the galaxy before retreating to your custom asteroid base, it’s the perfect game for a relaxed, slow-paced weekend. — Austin Manchester
Source: Polygon
