Xbox Game Pass July Lineup Adds Blockbusters and Indie Hits, But Removes Fan Favorites

Microsoft has unveiled its July lineup for Xbox Game Pass, bringing a mix of AAA firepower and indie charm to the popular subscription service. As always, the news is a double-edged sword for subscribers, as several beloved titles will also be leaving the platform.

Headlining the arrivals this month is “Assassin’s Creed Valhalla,” marking the first time a mainline entry from Ubisoft’s storied franchise has landed on Xbox Game Pass. The Viking-themed open-world epic will be available on both console and PC starting July 11, giving players the chance to step into Eivor’s blood-soaked boots without shelling out full price.

Joining Valhalla is the quirky and critically acclaimed indie darling “PowerWash Simulator,” returning after a brief hiatus. Alongside it, tactical RPG fans are getting a treat in the form of “Disco Elysium: The Final Cut,” bringing one of the most narrative-rich gaming experiences in recent years to subscribers on July 18.

Game Pass is also widening its day-one release appeal this month. The colorful farming sim “Lightyear Frontier” and the roguelike action-platformer “The Bookwalker: Thief of Tales” are both launching directly into the service, highlighting Xbox’s continued investment in supporting indie developers.

However, not all the news is good. Microsoft confirmed that “Grand Theft Auto V” and “Monster Hunter: World,” two of the most-played titles on Game Pass, will be leaving the rotation on July 15. Their departure coincides with Microsoft’s end-of-fiscal-year digital content reshuffle, a trend Xbox users are becoming all too familiar with.

The regular cadence of additions and removals remains a hallmark of the Game Pass ecosystem as Microsoft continues to balance licensing deals, audience demand, and strategic exclusives. While the loss of fan favorites stings, July’s new entrants offer an exciting value proposition—especially for those yet to experience gaming’s more experimental or story-driven offerings.

Full details on the lineup, including surprise drop-ins and potential regional variations, are expected during Microsoft’s upcoming “ID@Xbox Summer Showcase” airing later this week.