On November 27, Aliens: Dark Descent officially landed on Xbox Game Pass. This is the ninth addition to the subscription service this past November, contributing to a total of 132 new titles for the year. If you’re a fan of the Alien franchise, this is great news, given that the series hasn’t graced Xbox Game Pass since early 2023.
Developed by Tindalos Interactive, a creative Parisian studio, Aliens: Dark Descent takes players into a tactical, real-time adventure set in the year 2198, nearly two decades after the cinematic events of Alien 3. Released initially in late June 2023, it garnered positive feedback on platforms like PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. Steam users even rewarded it with “Very Positive” reviews, and critics received it fairly well.
Bounding onto Microsoft’s subscription service as part of the November 2024 lineup, Aliens: Dark Descent isn’t a day-one release but is available across all non-Core tiers, making it quite accessible. Those with XGP Ultimate can also enjoy streaming gameplay through Xbox Cloud Gaming, a nice perk for the service’s top-tier subscribers.
As common with many Game Pass titles, subscribers get access to the base game. However, if you’re enticed by extras, there’s the Lethe Recon Pack DLC which adds some flavor with a unique feline friend and a stealthy Black Camo Armor Set for $3.59. It’s far from essential, but a nifty addition for enthusiasts.
Longtime subscribers to Xbox Game Pass may recall the absence of Alien titles since Alien: Isolation departed the platform in February 2023. Before that, the action-packed Aliens: Fireteam Elite was a fan favorite, lasting over a year before it left the roster in December 2022. Now with Aliens: Dark Descent, fans can expect it to remain accessible for at least a year, offering ample time to dive into its campaign which spans about 25 hours. For those looking to chase 100% completion, prepare for a deeper 60-hour journey.
Looking ahead, there’s plenty more coming to Xbox Game Pass. As we gear up for December, anticipate Microsoft’s first announcement wave scheduled around December 3. Notably, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is confirmed for a day-one release on December 9, joining the platform’s growing collection. Before this exciting addition, though, Xbox Game Pass is set to bid farewell to nine titles on November 30. Whether you’re a seasoned subscriber or a new arrival, the upcoming weeks promise an evolving library packed with exciting gaming adventures.
