Games Vanishing: Your Guide to Xbox Game Pass January 2023 Departures

As the new year rolls in, it’s time for a refresh not just in our lives, but also in the Xbox Game Pass library! January 2023 saw a selection of titles bid farewell to the service. Here’s a rundown of the games that left Xbox Game Pass in January 2023:

• Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc (Cloud, Console, and PC)
• Nobody Saves The World (Cloud, Console, and PC)
• Pupperazzi (Cloud, Console, and PC)
• The Anacrusis (Game Preview) (Cloud, Console, and PC)
• We Happy Few (Cloud, Console, and PC)
• Windjammers 2 (Cloud, Console, and PC)

These games were officially removed on January 15, 2023. So, if you were still enjoying these titles, hopefully you managed to complete them or purchase them at a discounted price before they disappeared from the Game Pass roster. Remember, Game Pass often offers a discount on games before they leave the service.

Diving Deeper: January 2023’s Departures and What It Means

The departure of these games from Xbox Game Pass is a common occurrence. It’s part of the service’s model, where games are added and removed regularly to keep the library fresh and engaging. This churn keeps subscribers coming back to discover new experiences, and gives a spotlight to games that might have otherwise gone unnoticed. Let’s briefly reflect on some of these titles that left us in January:

• Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc: A visual novel adventure with an intriguing murder mystery and unique art style. It’s a beloved title for its compelling narrative.
• Nobody Saves The World: A quirky action RPG where you transform into different forms to save the world. Its unique gameplay and charming art style made it a stand-out indie hit.
• Pupperazzi: A delightful photography game where you take pictures of adorable dogs. It’s a lighthearted and enjoyable experience for animal lovers.
• The Anacrusis (Game Preview): A co-op shooter set aboard a retro sci-fi spaceship. Its early access status meant it was still evolving, but it offered frantic and fun cooperative gameplay.
• We Happy Few: A dystopian adventure where you navigate a drug-fueled society. Its unique atmosphere and engaging narrative made it a memorable experience.
• Windjammers 2: A fast-paced frisbee-throwing arcade game that’s a sequel to the original classic. Its competitive and simple fun has made it a modern favorite.

It’s a diverse lineup, showing the range of experiences Game Pass offered at that time!

FAQs: Unlocking the Secrets of Xbox Game Pass Departures

Navigating the world of Xbox Game Pass can be tricky, with its ever-changing library. Here are some frequently asked questions to clear up any confusion and help you make the most of your subscription. The following are just a few of the many questions that you may find yourself asking.

1. Why do games leave Xbox Game Pass?

Games leave Game Pass due to licensing agreements between Microsoft and the game developers or publishers. These agreements have expiration dates, and when those dates pass, the game is removed from the service. The Games Learning Society may be able to offer insight into game licensing practices, but it’s a complex field!

2. How do I know when a game is leaving Game Pass?

Xbox usually announces games leaving Game Pass two weeks before their removal date. Keep an eye on the “Leaving Soon” section in the Xbox Game Pass app on your console, PC, or mobile device. Microsoft also announces these departures on Xbox Wire, their official news blog.

3. Can I still play a game after it leaves Game Pass?

No, you cannot play a game through Game Pass once it has been removed from the service, unless you purchase the game separately through the Xbox Store or another retailer.

4. Do I get a discount on games that are leaving Game Pass?

Yes! Xbox Game Pass members typically receive a 20% discount on games that are leaving the service, allowing you to purchase them and continue playing even after they’re removed from Game Pass. Some other discounts may also be available!

5. How often do games leave Xbox Game Pass?

Games typically leave Game Pass twice a month, usually around the middle and end of each month. This schedule can vary slightly depending on the licensing agreements in place.

6. What happens if I’m in the middle of a game when it leaves Game Pass?

If a game you’re playing is about to leave Game Pass, you’ll receive a notification. It’s a good idea to either finish the game quickly or purchase it before it’s removed so you can continue your progress.

7. Is there a way to request that a game stays on Game Pass longer?

While there’s no official method for requesting specific games to stay on Game Pass, providing feedback to Microsoft through official channels can sometimes influence future decisions.

8. Does the departure of a game from Game Pass mean it’s not popular?

Not necessarily. The departure of a game from Game Pass is often solely due to licensing agreements expiring, and doesn’t necessarily reflect the game’s popularity or performance on the service.

9. Does Game Pass Ultimate include all games available on Game Pass for Console and PC?

Yes, Game Pass Ultimate includes access to all games available on both Game Pass for Console and PC, as well as Xbox Cloud Gaming and other benefits. It is the premium tier!

10. Does the price of Game Pass ever change?

Yes, the price of Game Pass can change. Microsoft has adjusted the pricing of Game Pass and Game Pass Ultimate in the past. It is a subscription service, so expect changes.

11. If I purchase DLC for a game on Game Pass and then the game leaves, do I lose the DLC?

Yes, if you purchase DLC for a game that later leaves Game Pass, you will not be able to use the DLC unless you also purchase the base game. The DLC requires the base game to function.

12. How does Xbox decide which games to add to Game Pass?

Microsoft decides which games to add to Game Pass based on a variety of factors, including licensing agreements, developer partnerships, and subscriber demand. They aim to provide a diverse and appealing library.

13. Will Call of Duty be on Game Pass?

While past information suggested Call of Duty might not be on Game Pass in 2023, future additions are planned for 2024 and beyond, after the acquisition of Activision Blizzard.

14. Are there any educational benefits to using Xbox Game Pass?

Yes, gaming can offer a multitude of educational benefits such as improving problem-solving skills, spatial reasoning, and strategic thinking. Resources such as GamesLearningSociety.org dive deeper into the educational aspects of games.

15. What is Xbox Cloud Gaming?

Xbox Cloud Gaming (xCloud) is a feature of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate that allows you to stream and play games on various devices, such as phones, tablets, and PCs, without needing to download them. It’s a great way to try out new games or play on the go.

Wrapping Up

Understanding the ebb and flow of the Xbox Game Pass library is key to getting the most out of your subscription. Keep an eye on those “Leaving Soon” announcements, take advantage of discounts, and don’t be afraid to explore new titles. The ever-changing landscape of Game Pass ensures there’s always something new to discover!