Xbox Game Pass: Three new games coming in week 2 of July – including a legendary remaster at launch
The second week of July brings three new titles to Game Pass. The standout is likely the remastered edition of the 2000s classics Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 and 4. Here’s a quick look at what’s coming:
The Ascent - July 8 (PC, cloud and console)
The Ascent blends action RPG elements with twin-stick shooter mechanics, plunging players into the dystopian, neon-lit world of Veles – a vertically layered cyberpunk city ruled by powerful corporations. You play as an indent, a bonded worker under the control of the mighty Ascent Corporation. When the mega-corp suddenly collapses, chaos erupts. Amid the turmoil, you must rise from obscurity, uncover the truth behind the downfall, and fight to survive.
As a twin-stick shooter, The Ascent lets players move with one stick and aim with the other, blending fast-paced combat with deep RPG systems. You can level up, unlock skills and customize your loadout with a wide range of weapons and gear. Cybernetic implants enhance your abilities, while varied enemy types and a cover system keep encounters dynamic. You can play solo or team up with up to three others in seamless online co-op, coordinating tactics and firepower as you battle through Veles. Beyond the main story, the open world offers exploration, side quests and black market trading to further upgrade your character.
Minami Lane - July 9 (PC, cloud and console)
Minami Lane is a cozy blend of building and life simulation that takes players to a vibrant Japanese side street, filled with cherry blossoms, charming shops and cheerful residents. As the lane’s manager, your goal is to help the neighborhood flourish. You can place tea shops, ramen stands, cat cafés and apartment buildings, while adjusting decorations, prices and opening hours. The focus isn’t on stats or efficiency, but on creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere and keeping your neighbors happy.
The gameplay echoes classic city builders but stays deliberately simple and accessible. Players shape the street one step at a time, watching how residents’ behavior and happiness evolve. Each building adds new ways to attract visitors or generate income. Minami Lane is perfect for anyone looking to unwind with a warm cup of tea and a bit of gentle urban planning.
Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 + 4 - July 11 (PC, cloud and console)
With Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 + 4, two of the most beloved skateboarding games of all time return – remastered, refined and ready for a fresh round of grinds. Fans who spent countless hours in the early 2000s landing kickflips in airports or chaining manuals across college campuses can rejoice: the original levels from both games are back, along with legendary skaters, iconic soundtracks and the signature tricks that defined a generation.
The remaster builds on the success of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2, offering tighter controls and significantly improved visuals. New features include quality-of-life upgrades like a rewind function, Free Skate checkpoints, cross-play support and a more advanced park editor. Best of all, the game will be available on Xbox Game Pass from day one.
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