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Following the latest cost hike for Game Pass Ultimate, the initial commotion has subsided. While it might not be seen as the top deal in gaming anymore, the service has welcomed several big-name launch day releases lately, such as Ninja Gaiden 4 and The Outer Worlds 2. Those titles further enrich a massive library of numerous games ideal for weekend-long gaming binges.

This week's recommendations include a therapeutic action game, an prize-winning indie gem, and a must-play HD-2D RPG.

Sniper Elite: Resistance

Every so often, we all require a little release. Over two decades, the Sniper Elite franchise has provided exactly that. Rebellion Developments' long-running shooter line presents players intensely graphic carnage against Nazi forces. This year, Rebellion released Sniper Elite: Resistance, a timely new entry to the franchise. While it doesn't revolutionize the formula, Resistance remains a well-constructed dose of immersive sim World War II sandboxes filled with enemy targets. The sniping is as visceral and gratifying as always, with the series' signature killcam showing every bullet's impact in graphic, testicle-crunching clarity. It's a violent thrill for every pacifist wanting to let off steam in the security of a digital space.

Resist 1000x

1000xResist presents an critically acclaimed story touching on post-pandemic life, family trauma, and other deep themes. It approaches these subjects through a science fiction lens; you play as Watcher, one of several clones of Iris, the sole person left of a global outbreak that eradicated human life. Watcher and her fellow clones delve into Iris's memories from the time Earth was beset by that horrific plague, along with experiences of her school and home life, both of which were bearable for a young person. Watcher learns Iris isn't what she appears, and the plot unfolds from that point. If all that mystery fails to hook you, the game does start with a murder. Is there a more compelling start than that?

Octopath Traveler 2

Yes, finishing a gazillion-hour RPG in only nine days is a tall order, but if there's any game worth attempting the grind for, it's Octopath Traveler 2. Square Enix's visually striking gem is leaving Game Pass at the end of November (along with the first game, which is also included). However, with a break in the midst, at least for those in the States, it's theoretically achievable. Octopath Traveler 2 follows 8 characters, each representing a distinct genre. There's a procedural tale about a cleric looking into the death of his cathedral's archbishop. A trader aiming to eradicate poverty through the force of commerce stars in a western-themed adventure. Additionally, there's a mystery about an apothecary with amnesia (since all great RPGs require a hero with an unknown background, of course). A few of these plots intertwine in surprising, intriguing ways, while you progress through a gorgeous Industrial Revolution inspired setting. And the battle system is excellent — “number go up” boiled to its essence.