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After the latest cost hike for Game Pass Ultimate, the initial uproar has subsided. Although it may not be considered the absolute best deal in gaming anymore, the service has introduced a number of big-name launch day games lately, including Ninja Gaiden 4 and The Outer Worlds 2. Those additions only enhance a vast library of hundreds games perfect for weekend gaming binges.

This week's recommendations feature a cathartic action game, an award-winning indie masterpiece, and a must-play HD-2D RPG.

Sniper Elite: Resistance

Every so often, we all require a bit of catharsis. Over two decades, the Sniper Elite series has delivered exactly that. Rebellion Developments' enduring shooter line presents players ultraviolent carnage against Nazi forces. Recently, the studio released Sniper Elite: Resistance, a well-timed addition to the franchise. Although it doesn't reinvent the formula, Resistance remains a polished serving of simulation World War II open environments packed with Nazi targets. The long-range combat is as brutal and satisfying as always, featuring the game's trademark killcam showing each shot's impact in gory, explicit clarity. It's a violent excitement for any pacifist wanting to unwind in the safety of a virtual space.

1000xResist

1000xResist presents an critically acclaimed narrative touching on life after a pandemic life, generational pain, and much more. It approaches these themes through a science fiction lens; you play as Watcher, a member of multiple clones of Iris, the only person left of a pandemic that eradicated humanity. Watcher and her sister clones explore Iris's recollections from the time Earth was beset by that terrible disease, as well as memories of her education and home life, both of which were easy for a young person. Watcher discovers Iris is not what she appears, and the story unfolds from that point. Should all that mystery isn't enough to grab your interest, the game indeed begin with a murder. Is there a more gripping start than that?

Octopath Traveler II

Yes, completing a gazillion-hour RPG in just nine days is a tall order, but if any game deserving trying the grind for, it's Octopath Traveler 2. Square Enix's visually striking masterpiece is departing Game Pass at the close of the month (along with the original game, also available). But, due to a holiday in the midst, at least for players in the U.S., it's technically achievable. Octopath Traveler 2 features 8 characters, each representing a distinct story style. There's a investigative story about a priest investigating the death of his cathedral's archbishop. A merchant aiming to solve destitution through the force of capitalism headlines a western-themed adventure. Additionally, there's a mystery about an apothecary with amnesia (because every good RPGs need a character with an unknown background, of course). Some of these stories connect in unexpected, fascinating ways, while you progress through a gorgeous Industrial Revolution inspired world. And the battle system is superb — stat-focused gameplay boiled to its essence.