New to Xbox Game Pass – July 2023 Wave 1

It’s starting off a day later than we’ve come to expect from the previous wave or most of them in general, but we’re here with news for the next Xbox Game Pass wave. We got a couple of day-one releases and a fan favorite that’s already been added, so let’s break down what we can expect for the first half of July.

Kicking off the wave and available immediately is Grand Theft Auto V for cloud and console. This is the third time the game has been available on the service, although a difference this time around is that it’s available for Xbox Series X|S platforms as well. If you still haven’t played one of the top-selling video games of all time, this is a wonderful opportunity. For those who want to know just a bit more, feel free to read Keiran’s PS4 version review.

Also available starting today is McPixel 3 for cloud, console, and PC. You follow the titular wanna-be hero as they try to save the day from increasingly whacky situations. Filled with constant humor and a variety of gameplay moments, McPixel 3 aims to be more zany than its predecessor, which is just McPixel for the record. If you want to read first-hand experience, check out Mike’s review here.

The next two games join on July 11th. First is Common’hood for cloud, console, and PC. This settlement simulation is all about building a new home for squatters, with the goal to help the less fortunate and guide them into a thriving community. You can then take your personal habitats and share them online with others.

Coming on the same day is Insurgency: Sandstorm for PC. The popular 2018 tactical FPS is all about providing a realistic atmosphere and a more traditional shooter experience. Players can enjoy both co-op and PvP multiplayer modes alike, all the while looking unique with character and weapon customization.

It’s been a long-time coming, but on July 14th Capcom’s latest IP Exoprimal will be launching as a day-one release for cloud, console, and PC. Soldiers in powerful exosuits will need to take on hordes of dinosaurs to survive the wargames being run by an artificial intelligence named Leviathan. PvE is the focus, but there are competitive PvP modes as well.

July 18th will see a day-one release of the Techtonica game preview joining for cloud, console, and PC. Set in a first-person perspective, you’ll need to explore underneath an alien planet and build automated factories to gather resources. Players can do it alone or with friends in a 4-player co-op.

Joining it on the same day will be The Cave for cloud and console. Some might remember this ten-year-old platformer, but those who aren’t familiar are in for a treat. Developed by Double Fine Productions, players will need to embark into a mysterious cave with a set of unique adventurers. What they find is just as unique, including places like an amusement park and a medieval castle. Multiple endings and locations for each character encourage repeat playthroughs and descents into the cave.

Rounding it all out are the titles that will be leaving at the end of this wave. Thankfully, there aren’t that many. Players have until July 15th to check out the following three games: Exo One, PAW Patrol The Movie: Adventure City Calls, and Spelunky 2.