Microsoft continues to capitalize on the formula Free Play Daysa regular initiative which allows Xbox Game Pass subscribers – all plans combined (Essential, Premium, Ultimate) – to test a selection of games for free for a limited time.
For this new October weekend, these are 7 games playable at no extra cost. But be careful, not all of them are accessible to all subscribers equally.
3 games reserved for Game Pass subscribers
Until Monday October 13 at 8:59 a.m. (Paris time)Xbox Game Pass subscribers Ultimate, Premium or Essential can freely play:
- Grounded 2 : Return to insect size for a co-op survival adventure where base building and exploration in hostile environments are essential.
- AEW: Fight Forever : an old-fashioned arcade wrestling game, inspired by the All Elite Wrestling league, with spectacular movements and an atmosphere faithful to television shows.
- Dovetail Games Euro Fishing : for those who prefer relaxation to adrenaline, this realistic fishing simulator offers the chance to catch fish in the most beautiful lakes in Europe.
3 games open to all Xbox members
Still until October 13, but without the need for Game PassXbox players can also enjoy:
- Riders Republic : Test the new motocross and other extreme disciplines in this huge open-air multiplayer world. And if the game appeals to you, progress is retained, and a 75% discount is available.
- Under the Waves : an independent narrative game that immerses the player in an introspective underwater adventure, combining grief, isolation and environmental beauty.
- Kingdom Two Crowns : a pixel art strategy title where you play as a monarch building, defending and exploring a kingdom threatened by mysterious creatures.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 extends the fun
Finally, until October 16Xbox subscribers can also test Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 for free. The opportunity to discover this exciting new spy campaign, set in the early 90s, in a revisited Cold War atmosphere.
Developed by Treyarch and Raven Softwarethis episode marks a return to basics, with strong storytelling, infiltration mechanics, spectacular missions and action that remains as nervous as ever.
Marketing generosity that divides
If the offer appeals with its variety, some players point out the limits of these “free games”. To benefit from it, you must be a subscriber – sometimes to the most expensive plan – and access time is limited. One player comments ironically: “These are more paid demos than real gifts.”
However, others see it as a interesting opportunity to test games that they would never have purchased, with the added bonus of promotions if they decide to continue the experience.
A winning strategy for Xbox
By renewing this “discovery” formula every week, Xbox consolidates the perceived value of its Game Pass, while providing visibility to various gamessometimes independent, sometimes highly anticipated like Black Ops 6.
This approach, between limited trial and potential purchase, is aligned with a long-term service logic, where the player becomes a subscriber as well as a buyer. And in an ultra-competitive market, it’s a rather clever form of loyalty.