Xbox Game Pass subscribers and PC gamers alike are getting a fresh wave of reasons to celebrate this August, as Microsoft rolls out a series of enticing updates to its gaming ecosystem. From the continued presence of beloved indie classics to a growing catalog of blockbuster Ubisoft titles, the Xbox and Microsoft Store platforms are evolving in ways that promise more choice, convenience, and anticipation than ever before.
Let’s start with the news that’s got metroidvania fans buzzing: Hollow Knight: Voidheart Edition remains available on Xbox Game Pass for both consoles and PC, as of August 9, 2025. According to PureXbox, this isn’t just the base game—it’s the complete experience, bundling in all four downloadable content packs. That means new quests to unravel, bosses to conquer, and abilities to master, all at no extra cost beyond the standard Game Pass subscription. Whether you’re playing on an Xbox One or taking advantage of the FPS boost on a Series X/S, you’re getting the definitive version of a modern indie classic.
But why the renewed spotlight on Hollow Knight now? The answer lies in one of 2025’s most anticipated releases: Hollow Knight: Silksong. As PureXbox reports, the long-awaited sequel is scheduled to hit Xbox Game Pass on day one later this year, meaning subscribers will be able to dive straight into the action without any additional purchase. First announced back in 2019, Silksong has kept fans waiting through years of development, but that wait is almost over. For those eager to experience the next chapter in the saga, there’s no better time to play—or replay—the original.
"I consider Xbox Game Pass the best place to play Hollow Knight, and I’m excited for my new run as I get ready for Silksong," one fan shared, echoing the sentiment of many in the gaming community. The advice from seasoned players and journalists alike is clear: playing Hollow Knight now is the perfect way to prepare for the gameplay improvements and story developments that Silksong promises to deliver. And with the Voidheart Edition’s robust content, there’s plenty to keep even returning players busy.
Of course, the Xbox Game Pass library is always in flux, with new titles being added and others departing. Recent months have seen the arrival of heavy hitters like Assassin’s Creed Mirage—though that particular title is limited to the Ultimate tier of the subscription. The catalog also boasts a blend of AAA experiences such as Oblivion Remastered and Forza Horizon 5, alongside indie darlings like Inside. It’s this mix of breadth and quality that has cemented Game Pass as a go-to service for gamers seeking value and variety.
On the PC front, Microsoft is making moves of its own to broaden the horizons for players—especially those eyeing the upcoming ROG Xbox Ally launch. As reported by PureXbox, Ubisoft has just added over 10 of its flagship games to the Microsoft PC Store as of August 6, 2025. This development means that titles which were previously only available via Steam or Ubisoft’s own storefront can now be purchased directly through the Microsoft ecosystem.
The list of newly available Ubisoft games reads like a who’s who of modern gaming: Anno 1800, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora, Far Cry 4, Far Cry New Dawn, Far Cry Primal, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, Skull & Bones, Star Wars Outlaws, Steep, The Crew 2, and The Crew Motorfest all join the digital shelves. With these additions, a total of 27 Ubisoft titles can now be purchased via the Microsoft Store on PC, further cementing the platform’s appeal for fans of the publisher’s expansive worlds and franchises.
There is, however, a caveat: these Ubisoft games are not Xbox Play Anywhere compatible. In practical terms, this means that if you already own the console versions of these games, you’ll need to purchase them again to play on PC. While this may be a disappointment for some, the overall sentiment remains positive, as the expanded availability makes it easier than ever for PC gamers—especially those planning to use the ROG Xbox Ally—to access Ubisoft’s catalog without juggling multiple storefronts.
This move is part of a broader trend of increased collaboration and cross-platform accessibility in the gaming industry. Microsoft and Ubisoft have both demonstrated a willingness to break down barriers, albeit with some limitations. For Microsoft, the expansion of the PC Store’s offerings is a strategic play to keep pace with competitors like Steam, while also enhancing the value proposition of its own hardware and services. For Ubisoft, it’s a chance to reach new audiences and streamline the purchasing process for its fans.
Meanwhile, the anticipation for Hollow Knight: Silksong continues to build. The original game has been lauded for its tight controls, atmospheric world, and challenging combat, setting a high bar for the sequel. By including Silksong as a day-one Game Pass release, Microsoft is betting big on the title’s appeal—and giving subscribers yet another reason to stick with the service. For many, the seamless transition from playing Hollow Knight to jumping into its sequel is a dream scenario, made possible by the evolving landscape of digital distribution and subscription gaming.
For gamers, the message is clear: whether you’re looking to catch up on indie masterpieces or explore the latest Ubisoft blockbusters, there’s never been a better time to dive in. With services like Xbox Game Pass and the Microsoft PC Store continually expanding their offerings, the barriers to entry are lower than ever. And with major releases like Silksong on the horizon, the excitement shows no signs of slowing down.
As the gaming world looks ahead to the rest of 2025, these developments signal a future where choice, convenience, and community are front and center. For now, though, there’s only one thing left to do: grab a controller, pick a game, and get playing.
