Microsoft announced the second wave of removals from Xbox Game Pass this month, with eight additional titles set to leave on September 30. While the service loses games like Atomfall and Lara Croft, it simultaneously adds high‑profile releases such as Minecraft Dungeons II and Call of Duty: Black Ops 6.

  • Eight games will be removed from Xbox Game Pass on September 30
  • A total of 18 games are being cut this month
  • New blockbuster titles like Minecraft Dungeons II and Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 are joining the service

Microsoft officially confirmed a second round of cuts to its Xbox Game Pass library, slated for September 30. This wave removes eight titles, bringing the month’s total removals to 18—a significant churn for the subscription platform.

Games Set for Removal

The titles leaving the service on September 30 are: Atomfall, Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light, Sifu, Little Nightmares 2 Enhanced Edition, SOPA Tale of the Stolen Potato, Sworn, Little Rocket Lab, and Terminull Brigade. All were available across cloud, console, and PC.

Read Also:Major Climate Shocks Ahead: Experts Issue Urgent Warning

New Additions Arriving Soon

In parallel, Microsoft is bolstering the catalog with several marquee releases. Minecraft Dungeons II arrives on September 29, Gears of War: E‑Day on October 6, and Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 joins on September 25. These day‑one releases are expected to drive fresh subscriber growth.

Historical Background

Since its launch in 2017, Xbox Game Pass has evolved from a modest collection of first‑party titles into a comprehensive library spanning indie and AAA games. Periodic removals are routine, reflecting licensing agreements and the need to make room for newer content.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the simultaneous removal of eight titles highlights Microsoft’s strategic shift toward newer, high‑profile releases that can attract and retain subscribers in a competitive streaming market.

"The health of Game Pass now hinges on how quickly and effectively Microsoft can refresh its lineup with blockbuster titles," says gaming analyst Alex Rivera.
Did You Know?: Xbox Game Pass surpassed 25 million active subscribers in 2022, a 30% increase over the previous year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can removed games return to Game Pass?
A: Yes, if licensing deals are renegotiated or new partnerships are formed.

Q2: Do I have to buy the games that are leaving?
A: Not necessarily; most titles remain purchasable through digital storefronts like the Xbox Store or Steam.