Xbox Game Pass news highlights a wave of new updates and release details revealed by Microsoft during the first-ever New Game Plus Showcase, where five upcoming titles received major announcements and gameplay insights.
Hosted by popular content creators including Jake Lucky and Luality, the showcase placed a strong spotlight on Game Pass content, signaling Microsoft’s renewed push toward a bigger and more confident 2026 after a mixed year in 2025.
With another Xbox Developer Direct already confirmed later this month—featuring highly anticipated titles like Fable and Forza Horizon 6 – Xbox players can expect a steady flow of announcements in the near future.
Avowed Gets Free Anniversary Update and PS5 Release
Obsidian Entertainment revealed that Avowed, which originally launched in 2025, is far from finished. The studio confirmed a free Anniversary Update arriving on February 17, alongside the game’s launch on PlayStation 5.
The update adds the long-requested New Game Plus mode, letting players restart the campaign while keeping unlocked skills and gear. It also introduces Photo Mode, new playable races like Aumaua, Orlan, and Dwarf, along with fresh weapons and deeper character customization.
Grounded 2 Expands With Brookhollow Park Update
Currently available in Early Access, Grounded 2 showcased details of its next major update through a developer interview with Obsidian’s creative leads. The upcoming content introduces Brookhollow Park, a new community garden area filled with fresh exploration opportunities and environmental challenges.
The update adds rideable ladybugs, new armor sets, weapons, and building materials like mushroom bricks. It also brings back Black Ants and Wasps, while introducing a new enemy called the Cricket that uses powerful jumps and kicking attacks.
Aphelion Highlights Immersive Gameplay and Sound Design
DON’T NOD’s sci-fi action adventure Aphelion delivered new gameplay footage at the showcase, with a strong emphasis on its atmospheric sound design. Composer Amine Bouhafa’s score plays a key role in shaping the game’s isolated, frozen-planet setting.
To enhance immersion, the development team incorporated recordings from the grand organ at Paris’ Saint-Eustache Church, creating a unique musical identity that evolves dynamically during gameplay. Aphelion is confirmed as a Day One Xbox Game Pass release.
Towerborne Confirms Full Release Date and Offline Play
Stoic Studio announced that Towerborne will officially launch in full on February 26, 2026. Known for the Banner Saga series, the studio revealed a major shift in direction for the co-op action RPG brawler.
Rather than remaining a free-to-play, always-online title, Towerborne will become a buy-to-own game that supports both offline play and online co-op. Developers confirmed that extensive community feedback during Early Access helped shape new equipment, enemies, bosses, and gameplay systems.
Denshattack! Brings Stylish Action to Game Pass
The final title showcased was Denshattack! from Fireshine Games. Set in a colorful yet dystopian version of Japan, the game blends extreme sports action with fast-paced combat and trick-based gameplay.
Players ride and grind across environments using a subway car, performing high-score tricks while completing objectives like racing rivals and battling local gangs. Inspired by classics such as Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater and Jet Set Radio, Denshattack! is scheduled to launch in Spring 2026.
Xbox Game Pass Looks Ahead to a Strong 2026
The New Game Plus Showcase made one thing clear: Xbox Game Pass has a packed roadmap ahead. With major updates, new releases, and platform expansions on the way, Microsoft appears fully focused on delivering a stronger lineup heading into 2026.
Fans won’t have to wait long for more details, as additional announcements are expected during the upcoming Xbox Developer Direct.
