New to Xbox Game Pass – July 2023 Wave 2

The previous wave may have started a little late, but this one is starting right on time. We got seven games coming to the Xbox Game Pass service for the second wave of July, including a day-one release and a critically-acclaimed title that’s returning. Let’s go over everything we can look forward to over the next two weeks.

Toem kicks it off and is available now for cloud, console, and PC. This adventure game uses a unique hand-drawn aesthetic for its 3D world, where players will need to meet a cast of eccentric characters and problems. Aside from taking in the views, the key to solving and progressing will be to use a camera to snap photos.

Also available today is Maquette for console and PC. If you like puzzle games that mess with your perception, this will likely be a fun time. It takes place in a world where the objects around you (and their larger versions in the distance) are controlled by a miniature table in the middle. The further you travel away, the bigger your obstacles become. You can read Alexx’s review here if you’re interested in hearing more about it.

The next two games are joining on July 20th. First is Figment 2: Creed Valley for cloud, console, and PC. Considering this was released only four months ago, this is a great opportunity for anyone who hasn’t bought it yet. Set in the human mind and taking on the role of Dusty, the embodiment of the mind’s courage, you’ll be tasked with stopping Nightmares from overrunning everything. Co-op mode is also available so you and a friend can explore this musical realm that’s visually inspired by storybook art.

That same day will also see The Wandering Village added for cloud, console, and PC. Post-apocalyptic city-builders isn’t the most novel idea, but this adds a twist by featuring a world taken over by poisonous plants. More importantly, the land you’re building on is on the back of a giant moving creature. How you build your society and interact with the creature is entirely up to you.

July 25th will make a jump from coexisting with giant creatures to a game where you kill them in Serious Sam: Siberian Mayhem on cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S. This stand-alone expansion follows the titular character as he ventures through Russia and faces new threats. Along the way, he’ll find people to help and plenty of new weapons. If you’re interested in hands-on experience, check out Mike’s review.

Coming in on July 31st is the day-one release of Venba for console and PC. Following an Indian mother who immigrates to Canada along with her family, you’ll need to explore their story and history. This is accomplished by cooking different dishes and restoring some older lost recipes.

Ending this wave on August 1st is the return of Celeste for cloud, console, and PC. If you haven’t played this indie darling of a platformer, this is a great chance to finally do so. It follows Madeline as she climbs Celeste Mountain, all the while fighting her own inner turmoil.

As always, we also have a handful of titles that will be leaving the service. Players have until July 31st to check out Dreamscaper, Expeditions: Rome, Marvel’s Avengers, The Ascent, and Two Point Campus.