The new console generation is upon us, and while the Xbox Series X may not have too many major exclusives just yet, Game Pass ensures that there is no shortage of games for subscribers to play. Whether you've upgraded to the Series X or S, are continuing to play on the Xbox One or you're a PC or Android gamer, the service has a massive library that only continues to grow.
This month is no exception in this regard, as there are over a dozen games coming in December offering varied experiences from a massive JRPG to smaller indie titles to one of 2019's best games.
Control
Coming to Console and Android on December 3
Remedy Entertainment's action-adventure game was one 2019's most critically-acclaimed titles, and now, Control is coming to Game Pass. It follows Jesse Faden, the new director of the Federal Bureau of Control, an agency that studies and contains mysterious forces that threaten reality. Combining physics, environmental effects and supernatural abilities, Control is one of the outgoing generation's most technically impressive titles, and it will certainly benefit the new console's upgrades. However, regardless of where you play it, the game is an engaging journey that will keep you hooked.
DOOM Eternal
Coming to PC on December 3
After coming to Game Pass on consoles in October (just a week after Microsoft announced it was purchasing ZeniMax Media), DOOM Eternal is also coming to PC subscribers. The latest entry in the iconic first-person shooter franchise, the game follows the Doom Slayer in his fight to free the world from Hell's grasp. If you haven't played it yet, now is a great time, as DOOM Eternal is up for four Game Awards, including a Game of the Year nomination.
Haven
Coming to Console and PC on December 3
A new indie title coming to Game Pass at launch, Haven combines elements of visual novels, exploration, resource gathering and combat as it tells a story about two lovers exploring an alien planet and learning what it means to be in a mature relationship. Yu and Kay have given up everything to be together, but now they must face new threats in a world that seeks to tear them apart. With a compelling story and gorgeous art style, this indie RPG has plenty of potential.
Rage 2
Coming to Android on December 3
This post-apocalyptic first-person shooter is coming to Android users, allowing them to take Walker's journey with them on the go. After much of Earth's population is killed by an asteroid, Walker must survive a new world of mutants and bandits while carrying out their adoptive aunt's final mission. The game's dynamic dystopian open world is exciting to explore, allowing and encouraging players to shoot -- and explode -- anything and everything.
Slime Rancher
Coming to Console and Android on December 3
This charming first-person sandbox adventure tells the story of Beatrix LeBeau, a rancher who travels to the Far, Far Range thousands of lightyears from Earth to start a new life. There, she faces new challenges and opportunities while collecting slimes, growing crops, gathering resources and exploring a world filled with secrets. The game is colorful and relaxing, perfect for gamers looking for a casual game to use to unwind.
Va-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action
Coming to PC on December 3
For those who can't get enough cyberpunk (who who want a game to play in the week leading up the Cyberpunk 2077's long-awaited launch), Va-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action may be the game for you. Referred to as a "booze em' up about waifus, technology, and post-dystopia life," the game is a visual novel where you make choices not by selecting dialogue options, but by preparing certain drinks. It's a unique approach to gameplay and storytelling, one that makes for a memorable experience you won't find anywhere else.
Yes, Your Grace
Coming to Console, PC and Android on December 3
In this kingdom management RPG, players make choices as King Eryk of Davern, who is faced with various petitioners seeking advise and resources. Its up to you to decide whether they get what they want or whether you save your limited resources for something else. You'll also have to help your family with their personal struggles. If you're a fan of games like Reigns: Kings & Queens and its various spin-offs, this is a title you'll want to try.
Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age – Definitive Edition
Coming to Console and PC on December 4
After a year as a Nintendo Switch exclusive, the enhanced edition of Dragon Quest XI is finally coming to other platforms including, for the very first time, Xbox. The latest title in the long-running and iconic JRPG series follows the Luminary, a young man with a mysterious mark on his hand who is falsely accused of being an evil entity. While uncovering the mystery of his fate, the Luminary joins forces with new friends with their own skills. This version includes 2D Mode, which lets players enjoy a 16-bit version of the game reminiscent of classic Dragon Quest adventures.
Call of the Sea
Coming to Console, PC and Android on December 8
Another indie game coming to Game Pass at launch, Call of the Sea takes place in 1934 and follows Norah, a woman searching a beautiful, nameless South Pacific island for her missing husband. Along the way, Norah will uncover the island's mysteries while investigating clues and solving puzzles -- and also finding herself.
Monster Sanctuary
Coming to Console and Android on December 8
Also launching on Game Pass, Team17's monster taming Metroidvania has players embark on an adventure to save the Monster Sanctuary by following in their ancestor's footsteps and becoming a Monster keeper. Along with a spectral familiar, the players will collect monsters, use their powers and build a team to explore the world and take on threats to the peace between monsters and humans.
Starbound
Coming to PC on December 8
This 2D space-sandbox adventure opens up unlimited gameplay possibilities. Set in a procedurally- generated universe, players are able to explore and create their own stories through exploring, farming, crafting, building and collecting. Whether you want to save the universe from threats, uncover galactic mysteries or settle new planets, Starbound provides the opportunity to do just that.
Unto The End
Coming to Console and PC on December 9
Yet another game launching on Game Pass, Unto The End is a combat adventure game with the aesthetic of a cinematic platformer. It tells the story of a character simply trying to get home to their family facing various opponents with their own motivations along the way. The game's combat system requires players to think about what they're doing and make tactical strikes -- perfect for those looking for a challenge.
Assetto Corsa
Coming to Console and Android on December 10
Fans of racing simulators will want to check out Assetto Corsa, which recreates real and iconic circuits like Monza, Silverstone and Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Italian developer Kunos Simulazioni worked car manufacturers to ensure each of the game's vehicles operates realistically in-game, creating an authentic experience for players.
Gang Beasts
Coming to Console and Android on December 10
For fans of quirky multiplayer party games, there's Gang Beasts. The game gives players strange gelatinous creatures to control, leading to absurd, slapstick brawls that are hilarious to watch play out. If you and your friends find fighting games like Super Smash Bros. and Mortal Kombat too serious, this weird melee might be for you.
GreedFall
Coming to Console, PC and Android on December 10
Explore a remote island filled with magic, treasure and secrets in GreedFall, an RPG where you can befriend (or betray) companions and factions. The game allows you to interact with the world and its inhabitants in various ways, using diplomacy, deception, force or stealth to get what you want. There are also plenty of options for creating your characters appearance and playstyle.
Superhot: Mind Control Delete
Coming to Console and Android on December 10
The latest entry in the Superhot franchise, Mind Control Delete maintains the unique time-halting mechanics fans enjoy while adding more to the story and its world. In it, time only moves when you do, meaning that players need to shoot, slice and explore their way through encounters in an unconventional way, planning their movements to avoid getting hit.
Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair
Coming to Console, PC and Android on December 8
Fans of colorful 2.5 platformers who missed it when it launched last fall should check out Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair, a game developed by former Rare employees behind Donkey Kong Country. In it, the charming and colorful duo must make it through challenging levels to take down the evil Capital B. These levels aren't the only place to explore, as the overworld itself is a game with objectives and puzzles. There are also plenty of other challenges including Alternate Level States and Tonics for those who can't get enough.
Mørkredd
Coming to Console, PC and Android on December 11
This artsy Xbox console exclusive puzzle game is launching on Game Pass. It's design to be played in co-op, but be warned: CBR's own review of Mørkredd called it "an entertaining and challenging game that's designed to test your friendships."
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Special Edition
Coming to Console and Android on December 17
After coming to just about every platform in existance, Skyrim is finally joining Game Pass. No doubt a benefit of the Microsoft buying Bethesda, this version even allows console gamers to use mods to make this massive game even more expansive.
Among Us
Coming to PC on December 17
Despite releasing in 2018, Among Us was a big winner at this year's Game Awards thanks to its meteoric rise. Now, the multiplayer hit is coming to Game Pass, so even more people can identify the Imposter.
Beholder: Complete Edition
Coming to Console and Android on December 17
This dystopian simulation game puts players in the shoes of a landlord working in a totalitarian state whose job is to spy on his tenants. Players can choose to be a ruthless tool of the state or protect those they find breaking the law. This version also includes the Blissful Sleep DLC, which provides more quests and stories.
Code Vein
Coming to Console and Android on December 17
Another dystopian game, Code Vein is an action-RPG that takes place in a world where a hidden society of Revenants has brought about the collapse of society. With gameplay inspired by titles like Dark Souls, this is one for gamers looking for a challenge.
The Dark Pictures Anthology: Man of Medan
Coming to PC on December 17
An interactive drama horror game, Man of Medan tells the story of a group of friends whose diving trip turns into something darker than they could have anticipated. The ending is determined by the players choices, and its multiplayer for up to five people makes it great for groups looking for a fright.
Monster Train
Coming to Console on December 17
Fans of deck-building games and roguelikes should check out Monster Train, a game that combines elements of these genres with a twist. With over 200 cards, various upgrades and multiplayer, no two runs are the same.
MotoGP 20
Coming to Console, PC and Android on December 17
MotoGP 20 allows players to enjoy a smooth and realistic recreation of the 2020 MotoGP season, as well as a career mode. The title is better looking and more realistic than ever, making it a great choice for racing fans.
My Friend Pedro
Coming to Android on December 17
This unique indie shoot 'em up has been described as a "violent ballet" in which a man takes down foes "at the behest of a sentient banana." It combines this absurd concept with solid gameplay and mechanics, which include split aiming and slow motion.
Neoverse
Coming to Console and Android on December 17
Another rogue-lite deck-building game, Neoverse is strategic game with gorgeous art and gameplay that will test your skills. The game includes three unique characters with different playstyles and enough cards and monsters to provide endless possibilities.
Wilmot's Warehouse
Coming to Console and PC on December 17
A puzzle game about a warehouse employee tasked with organizing various products, Wilmot's Warehouse is great for people who want a relaxing experience. Players can organize products however they wish -- just remember where you put everything so you can find it later.
Leaving Soon
Of course, like every other month, there are games leaving Game Pass. The first to go is
eFootball PES 2020 (Console) on December 11. Then, on December 15, Age of Wonders: Planetfall (Console & PC), Infinifactory (PC), Metro: Last Light Redux (PC), MudRunner (Console & PC), Naruto to Boruto: Shinobi Striker (Console), Pathologic 2 (Console & PC), The Turing Test (Console & PC), Ticket to Ride (Console & PC) and Untitled Goose Game (Console).
Finally, three more games will leave on December 30: Farming Simulator 17, Football Manager 2020 and Mortal Kombat X. You still have some time to try these games out before they go. And, as always, you'll get a 20 percent membership discount if you decide to purchase any of them while they're still part of Game Pass.