April is absolutely bursting with fresh titles to explore, from recent arrivals like People of Note to the highly anticipated Pragmata. However, sometimes the most rewarding gaming sessions involve revisiting beloved classics or finally diving into those gems you’ve been meaning to check out. With an ever-expanding library on Xbox Game Pass, you’re never short on options. This week, we’re highlighting a delightful cozy simulation, a criminally underrated twin-stick shooter, and an essential action-adventure game that perfectly captures that nostalgic Zelda magic.
1
Tiny Bookshop
As a veteran of the bookselling world, I was instantly enamored with Tiny Bookshop when it debuted on Nintendo Switch and PC last summer. It offers a wonderfully peaceful alternative to the high-stress retail life I know far too well. Arriving on Xbox Game Pass (and PS5) this April 10, it is poised to be the service’s next major sleeper hit. The premise is simple and serene: relocate to a charming coastal town, open your own mobile bookstore, cultivate relationships with the local community, and curate your inventory. Plus, you can adopt a dog—which, quite frankly, warrants a perfect score on its own. —Austin Manchester
2
Minishoot’ Adventures
Sometimes, a game requires a little patience before it gains the widespread acclaim it truly deserves. Minishoot’ Adventures is a prime example. This clever fusion of twin-stick shooting and top-down adventure first made waves on PC in 2024, earning a devoted following among those in the know. I was immediately hooked by its seamless blend of intense bullet-hell mechanics and expansive, open-world exploration, all packed with rewarding secrets. Now that it has arrived on consoles, it’s heartening to see a broader audience discovering this indie masterpiece. If you’re looking for a fresh experience this weekend, look no further. —Giovanni Colantonio
3
Tunic
If one Zelda-inspired adventure isn’t enough, Tunic is an absolute must-play. It wears its influences on its sleeve, casting you as a brave little fox navigating perilous dungeons, tackling intricate puzzles, and mastering precise combat. Part of the game’s unique allure is its commitment to old-school design philosophy. You’ll piece together the game’s mechanics by collecting manual pages, which are written in a mysterious, fictional language. Decoding these fragments is half the fun, though there’s absolutely no shame in checking a guide if you find yourself hitting a wall. It’s a challenging, rewarding journey that demands to be played. —AM
Source: Polygon
