The Witcher 3 leaves Xbox Game Pass: what does this mean for gamers?

In brief

• The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Complete Edition leaves Xbox Game Pass on August 31, 2023.
• Other titles leaving include Another Crab's Treasure, I Am Your Beast, Neon Abyss, and One Lonely Outpost.
• Game Pass subscribers can get a 20% discount on these games if they buy them before they leave.

GAME-scanner analysis

The departure of The Witcher 3 from Xbox Game Pass on August 31, 2023 is a significant moment for both Microsoft and gamers. Developed by CD Projekt Red, the game is widely regarded as one of the best RPGs of this generation. Losing such an iconic title could reduce Game Pass's appeal, especially for new subscribers looking for high-quality content. Microsoft has previously stressed that it regularly adds new titles to the service, but removing a game of this caliber may negatively affect perceptions of the subscription's value.

Moreover, given the recent price increase for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which has led to mass subscription cancellations, the loss of The Witcher 3 could further fuel frustration among existing users. It may also be a sign that Microsoft needs to focus on improving the quality of the titles added to the service, rather than concentrating solely on quantity.

What does this mean for players?

For players, this means acting quickly if they're interested in buying The Witcher 3 or any of the other titles set to leave soon. The 20% discount available to Game Pass subscribers can be an attractive incentive to purchase these games before they disappear from the catalog. This gives gamers the chance to expand their library with titles they might otherwise not buy, enriching their overall play experience.