Xbox Game Pass has proven to be a valuable service for Xbox gamers. The subscription service has grown a lot in recent months thanks to big new additions to it and future tentpole releases like Halo Infinite and Starfield coming to it on day one. While Xbox Game Pass consistently gets new additions, sometimes games are removed. One such game is CrossCode, a throwback action-RPG. While CrossCode might not be a familiar name to most, it's a fun RPG that subscribers should try out before it leaves Xbox Game Pass on July 15.
CrossCode won't be the only game to leave Xbox Game Pass in July, as there are four others set to leave the library: EA Sports UFC, EA Sports UFC 2, Downwell, and Endless Space 2: Deluxe Edition will also be leaving alongside CrossCode. Each title has its own appeal, but CrossCode stands out for its retro visual style and interesting premise. With just a week to go before the game leaves Xbox Game Pass, gamers have a limited window to check it out.
CrossCode's Retro Appeal
During its time as part of the service, CrossCode became a hit on Xbox Game Pass. The developer, Radical Fish Games, has stated that its active player count on Xbox One is greater than that of PS4 and Switch combined. This shows what Xbox Game Pass can do for developers and their games, but it also speaks to the quality and appeal of CrossCode, as well. The action-RPG is styled after that of class SNES games, which is bound to have contributed to its success as a part of Xbox Game Pass.
CrossCode sees players take on the role of Lea and her adventures in an in-game MMORPG called CrossWorlds. Lea stumbles into a plot where she must play the CrossWorlds MMORPG to regain her lost memories. This premise is only a part of the appeal, as its distinct visual style is reminiscent of a bygone era of gaming. Its style resembles that of a 16-bit SNES-era title, which would almost certainly appeal to retro gamers.
The gameplay of CrossCode is somewhat similar to that of classic Legend of Zelda games. As such, it wouldn't be surprising to know games like A Link to the Past and Link's Awakening influenced CrossCode behind the scenes. Its blend of 2D action role-playing and puzzle-solving is certainly comparable to the vintage Zelda titles. With its mix of Zelda-inspired action and visuals evocative of the early Phantasy Star games, it's easy to see how this hidden gem gained an expanded audience on Xbox Game Pass.
Just as Xbox Game Pass is getting new titles on July 15, some will also be leaving. The well-received action RPG CrossCode has just a week left on Xbox Game Pass, which could be enough time for some gamers to play it to completion before it leaves. The game's main story can take roughly 30 hours to complete, so there is a lot for Xbox Game Pass users to sink their teeth into. With a week left to go, there is still plenty of time for Radical Fish Games to expand CrossCode's audience.
CrossCode is available now on PC, PS4, PS5, Switch Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
