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Following the latest cost hike for Game Pass Ultimate, the initial commotion has calmed down. Although it might not be considered the absolute best offer in gaming now, the service has welcomed several big-name launch day releases lately, including Ninja Gaiden 4 and The Outer Worlds 2. These additions only enhance a vast collection of numerous games perfect for weekend marathon sessions.

This week's recommendations include a therapeutic shooter, an prize-winning independent gem, and a must-play HD-2D RPG.

Sniper Elite: Resistance

Every so often, we all require a bit of catharsis. Over two decades, the Sniper Elite franchise has provided exactly that. Rebellion Developments' enduring shooter line offers players intensely graphic carnage targeting Nazi forces. Recently, Rebellion launched Sniper Elite: Resistance, a well-timed addition to the series. While it doesn't revolutionize the gameplay, Resistance remains a polished dose of simulation World War II open environments packed with enemy targets. The long-range combat is as visceral and satisfying as always, with the game's signature killcam showing each shot's effect in graphic, explicit clarity. It's a violent excitement for every pacifist wanting to let off steam in the safety of a virtual world.

Resist 1000x

1000xResist presents an critically acclaimed narrative exploring post-pandemic life, generational trauma, and much more. It examines these subjects through a sci-fi perspective; you play as Watcher, a member of several clones of Iris, the sole survivor of a global outbreak that eradicated humanity. Watcher and her sister clones delve into Iris's memories from the time Earth was beset by that terrible disease, as well as memories of her school and home life, both of which were easy for a young person. Watcher learns Iris isn't all that she seems, and the plot develops from there. If all that intrigue fails to hook you, the game indeed begin with a killing. Is there a more gripping opening than this?

Octopath Traveler II

Yes, finishing a extremely long RPG in just over a week is a tall order, but if any game deserving attempting the grind for, it's Octopath Traveler 2. Square Enix's visually striking masterpiece is departing Game Pass at the close of the month (as is the first game, also available). However, with a holiday in the middle, at least for players in the States, it's technically achievable. Octopath Traveler 2 follows 8 characters, every one representing a different genre. There's a procedural story about a priest investigating the murder of his church's archbishop. A trader striving to solve poverty through the power of capitalism stars in a frontier-inspired narrative. There's even a enigma about an apothecary with memory loss (because all great RPGs need a character with an unknown background, naturally). A few of these plots connect in surprising, intriguing ways, as you play through a stunning Industrial Revolution themed setting. And the combat is superb — “number go up” distilled to its purest form.