Xbox Game Pass has been firing on all cylinders in 2025, and May is proving to be one of the biggest months yet. With a steady flow of standout titles—from critically acclaimed indies to potential Game of the Year contenders—the subscription service continues to deliver on both variety and value.
This month’s highlight is undoubtedly Metaphor: ReFantazio, the much-anticipated fantasy RPG from Atlus’ Persona team, set to arrive May 29. But it’s not coming alone. May’s second wave is bringing a diverse and stacked roster of games, with something for nearly every kind of player.
Xbox Game Pass – May 2025 Wave 2 Additions:
- Monster Train 2 (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S) – May 21
The sequel to the cult-favorite deckbuilding roguelike returns with new mechanics and deeper strategy. Early feedback has been glowing. - Tales of Kenzera: Zau (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S via EA Play) – May 22
A visually rich and emotionally driven Metroidvania platformer that made waves in 2024. - Tom Clancy’s The Division 2 (Cloud, Console, PC) – May 27
Ubisoft’s popular tactical looter-shooter makes its way back to Game Pass. - To a T (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S) – May 28
A charming slice-of-life puzzle game by Katamari Damacy creator Keita Takahashi, centered around a boy who literally can’t put his arms down. - Metaphor: ReFantazio (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S) – May 29
A sprawling, turn-based RPG epic that blends rich storytelling with intricate class-based mechanics. If you loved Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, this will scratch the same strategic itch. - Spray Paint Simulator (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S) – May 29
A creative and relaxing sandbox experience that lets you unleash your inner street artist. - Crypt Custodian (Cloud, Console, PC) – June 3
A charming 2D action-adventure where you play as a mischievous cat in the afterlife. Think classic Zelda with a twist. - Symphonia (Cloud, Console, PC) – June 3
A rhythm-action indie packed with style and innovation.
Looking Back: A Strong Start to May
The first half of the month already saw impressive additions like Revenge of the Savage Planet, the surprise return of Warhammer: Vermintide 2, and 2023 indie darling Dredge. April’s lineup wasn’t light either, with South of Midnight and the shadow-dropped Oblivion Remastered landing on Game Pass to strong player response.
All of this comes as Microsoft faces mounting scrutiny for its business ties to the Israeli military, sparking criticism and calls for a boycott from some corners of the gaming community. While Game Pass continues to offer undeniable value, this growing controversy has become impossible to ignore for many players.
