Day One Xbox Game Pass Game Delayed to 2026

Xbox Game Pass users who have been waiting for the nostalgia-filled day one title Mixtape will have to wait just a little bit longer, as the game has officially been delayed. Over the years, Xbox Game Pass has been a great platform for indie games, and while Mixtape will still eventually get released, it won't be available until next year.

Mixtape was first revealed during an Xbox Games Showcase back in June 2024, and it was an intriguing offering for both indie lovers and 80s and 90s kids. With stop-motion-inspired visuals and a killer soundtrack that helps bring its world to life, Mixtape is one of the most unique indie projects slated to launch day one for Xbox Game Pass. However, gamers ready for a wholesome ride that promises plenty of angst and nostalgia will now have to keep an eye out for 2026 instead.

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Mixtape Gets Pushed Back to 2026, But It Still Remains a Day One Xbox Game Pass Title

Developer Beethoven & Dinosaur announced the delay via X.
While a 2026 launch is confirmed, there is still no official release date.
Mixtape joins the growing list of day one Xbox Game Pass releases slated for 2026.

Although the delay is disappointing for those who were looking forward to diving into a world steeped in 90s vibes, developer Beethoven & Dinosaur approached the announcement in a fun way. In an amusing post on X, the developer played into Mixtape's retro charm, showcasing an apology mixtape filled with songs that gamers can listen to while they wait for the launch. Songs like "I'm Sorry" by John Denver, "Patience" by Guns & Roses, and "It Won't Be Long" by The Beatles were among the playlist additions, taking a lighthearted approach to delivering some less-than-exciting news.

Earlier this year, Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer even gave Mixtape high praise, expressing what a great addition the title will be to Xbox Game Pass. Mixtape may not be on everyone's radar, but for lovers of 80s and 90s music, coming of age stories, and uniquely beautiful art direction, it may be well worth adding to one's list. The story of Mixtape follows three friends who have been pulled into reenactments of their childhood together, thanks to the power of a stellar playlist. Artists like DEVO, The Smashing Pumpkins, Siouxsie and the Banshees, The Cure, and Joy Division are just a few of the bands confirmed for the soundtrack.

These Are the Other Day One Xbox Game Pass Titles Expected to Launch in 2026

Aphelion
At Fate's End
Beast of Reincarnation
Clockwork Revolution
Fable
Gears of War: E-Day
High on Life 2
Persona 4 Revival
Planet of Lana II
Replaced
Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy
State of Decay 3
Super Meat Boy 3D
There Are No Ghosts at the Grand
Witchbrook

Next year is shaping up to be a solid blend of both AAA heavy-hitters and indie offerings for the subscription service. Mixtape isn't the first Xbox Game Pass release to get delayed until next year, either, as Witchbrook was also recently pushed back after it was intended to be a 2025 title. Ultimately, delays help games get the chance to be as strong of a product as possible. Of course, it would be better if Mixtape could be played sooner, but with its charming premise and unique style, allowing the title more time in the oven before launch is bound to be a good thing. Mixtape will be launching in a year that is quickly piling up with great options, so it hopefully doesn't get too lost in the shuffle. As Beethoven & Dinosaur continue to iron out Mixtape, the developer will hopefully reveal an actual release date sometime in the near future.

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