The first weekend of August brings a mix of fresh releases and returning staples, making it a solid time to dive into something new on Xbox Series X/S. From fast-paced action to quiet, cozy moments, this weekend’s lineup covers a wide range of playstyles and genres. It’s a welcome reminder of how varied the platform’s catalog has become, especially with ongoing updates, surprise discounts, and Game Pass additions that continue to keep things interesting.
The games worth checking out on Xbox this weekend offer more than just flashy visuals or fleeting hype. They deliver engaging systems, well-paced gameplay loops, and just enough challenge or charm to fill a few satisfying hours with true gaming magic. Whether the goal is exploration, survival, teamwork, or just unwinding after another long week of a winding summer, there’s something on offer to match the mood. These four picks stand out for their atmosphere, replayability, and how well they hold up across multiple sessions. For those staying in this weekend, it’s a perfect time to relax with a good controller in hand and a few hours to spare.
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Wuchang: Fallen Feathers
Wuchang: Fallen Feathers has been making significant waves this week, and it’s easy to understand why. This visually stunning and recent Soulslike game tells a dark story of loss and memory, aiming to captivate every action-adventure enthusiast. With extensive exploration, innovative systems, and adaptable progression, Wuchang: Fallen Feathers encourages players to discover more of its hidden secrets. Plus, with a Game Pass subscription, players have no reason to miss out on one of the top titles of 2025.
This atmospheric Soulslike blends Chinese folklore, dark fantasy, and brutal combat. Set in the final years of the Ming Dynasty, Wuchang: Fallen Feathers casts players as Bai Wuchang, a pirate warrior afflicted with amnesia and a mysterious curse. As a deadly plague spreads across Shu, corrupting people into grotesque monsters, Bai must fight her way through ruined towns and haunted forests in search of answers. With its striking historical backdrop and challenging gameplay, this gritty action-RPG is shaping up to be a must-play for fans of titles like Sekiro.
Wuchang: Fallen Feathers
- Released
- July 24, 2025
WHERE TO PLAY
- ESRB
- Mature 17+ / Blood and Gore, Language, Suggestive Themes, Violence, In-Game Purchases
- Genre(s)
- Action RPG, Soulslike, Hack and Slash
Call of Duty: Warzone
Whether a player is dropping in solo or with a full squad, Warzone remains one of the most intense and endlessly replayable shooters currently on Xbox. Its fast-paced firefights, tactical depth, and constant updates keep the battlefield fresh, even years after its original launch. If you haven’t played in a while, it’s a great time to jump back in, especially with the evolving playlists and new content drops. There’s always something to master, and always someone trying to outgun a player.
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Call of Duty: Warzone drops 100+ players into a massive free-for-all where the last team, duo, or solo player standing wins. Players scavenge for weapons, armor, and gear while staying inside the shrinking circle to avoid deadly gas. Between high-stakes shootouts, chaotic rematches, and nail-biting final circles, Warzone turns every match into a cinematic, high-stress survival experience.
Call of Duty: Warzone
-
OpenCritic Reviews
- Top Critic Avg: 80 /100 Critics Rec: 78%
- Released
- March 10, 2020
- ESRB
- M for Mature: Blood and Gore, Strong Language, Suggestive Themes, Use of Drugs, Violence
- Developer(s)
- Infinity Ward, Raven Software
- Publisher(s)
- Activision
WHERE TO PLAY
- Genre(s)
- First-Person Shooter, Battle Royale
Tales of the Shire: A The Lord of The Rings Game
Tales of the Shire: A The Lord of The Rings Game has had a bumpy development with numerous delays, but it is finally in players’ hands. Released on Tuesday this week, Tales of the Shire is a perfect title for fans of the cozy game genre who also just happen to love Tolkien’s work. And even if a player isn’t a fan of Tolkien, they’ll likely enjoy the endless replayability, friendships, and customization options that make this game one of the life-sims to watch this year. Moreover, Tales of the Shire has set the standard in specific areas, like decor, for flagship cozy games like Animal Crossing.
Tales of the Shire is a charming life-sim that encourages players to slow down in the pastoral landscapes of Middle-Earth. As a hobbit settling in a little town called Bywater, the player is introduced to gameplay loops that make up a hobbit’s daily life. From fishing to cooking, players can immerse themselves in the simple joys of hobbit life, exploring the lush landscapes and engaging in activities that emphasize relaxation and community. The game’s inviting atmosphere and charming visuals make it a delightful experience for those seeking a peaceful retreat into the Shire.
Tales of the Shire: A The Lord of the Rings Game
- Released
- July 29, 2025
WHERE TO PLAY
Phasmophobia
If a player is looking for something on the scarier side, Phasmophobia is a slow-burn co-op ghost-hunting game that’s equal parts terrifying and hilarious with the right party. Players and up to three friends enter haunted locations to gather clues, provoke spirits, and survive long enough to escape with their findings. It’s a perfect pick for late-night gaming, especially with voice chat adding to the immersion and the intensity of jump scares. As an added bonus, Phasmophobia is currently on sale on Xbox.
In Phasmophobia, players are paranormal investigators hired to uncover the identity of whatever’s haunting a site. Using EMF readers and an arsenal of equipment in Phasmophobia, the goal is to collect enough evidence to figure out the ghost’s type, behavior, and the circumstances surrounding the haunting. From shy specters to aggressive demons, each run feels different and more dangerous than the last. Whether a player likes hiding in a closet or watching their teammates get dragged away, every match feels like their own playable horror movie.
Phasmophobia
- Released
- October 29, 2024
WHERE TO PLAY
- ESRB
- T For Teen // Blood, Use of Drugs, Violence
- Genre(s)
- Survival Horror, Puzzle