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After the latest price increase for Game Pass Ultimate, the initial uproar has calmed down. Although it might not be seen as the top offer in gaming anymore, the service has introduced several big-name launch day releases recently, such as Ninja Gaiden 4 and The Outer Worlds 2. These titles only enhance a massive library of hundreds games ideal for weekend marathon sessions.

This week's picks include a therapeutic action game, an prize-winning independent masterpiece, and a essential HD-2D RPG.

Resistance: Sniper Elite

Every so often, everyone needs a bit of release. For 20 years, the Sniper Elite franchise has provided exactly that. Rebellion Developments' enduring shooter line presents players intensely graphic carnage targeting enemy forces. This year, the studio released Sniper Elite: Resistance, a timely addition to the franchise. While it doesn't revolutionize the formula, Resistance is a well-constructed dose of simulation World War II open environments packed with enemy objectives. The sniping is as visceral and gratifying as always, with the series' trademark killcam displaying each shot's effect in graphic, explicit detail. It's a violent excitement for every pacifist wanting to unwind in the security of a virtual space.

Resist 1000x

1000xResist presents an critically acclaimed story exploring post-pandemic existence, family trauma, and other deep themes. It examines these themes through a sci-fi lens; you assume the role of Watcher, one of several clones of Iris, the only survivor of a global outbreak that wiped out human life. Watcher and her sister clones explore Iris's memories from when Earth was ravaged by that terrible plague, as well as memories of her school and home life, both of which were easy for a teenager. Watcher learns Iris isn't all that she seems, and the story unfolds from that point. If all that mystery isn't enough to hook you, the game indeed begin with a killing. What could be a more gripping opening than this?

Octopath Traveler II

Admittedly, finishing a gazillion-hour RPG in just nine days is a challenging task, but if any game worth attempting the effort for, it's Octopath Traveler 2. Square Enix's HD-2D gem is departing Game Pass at the end of November (as is the original game, which is also included). But, due to a holiday in the midst, at least for those in the States, it's theoretically achievable. Octopath Traveler 2 follows 8 protagonists, each representing a distinct story style. You'll find a procedural tale about a priest looking into the death of his church's head priest. A trader striving to eradicate destitution through the power of commerce stars in a western-themed narrative. There's even a enigma about an herbalist with amnesia (because all great RPGs require a character with an mysterious past, of course). A few of these plots connect in unexpected, fascinating ways, while you progress through a stunning Industrial Revolution themed world. And the battle system is excellent — stat-focused gameplay boiled to its essence.