Play them while you can
A quartet of titles is leaving Xbox Game Pass in mid-October–most notably two beloved puzzle adventure games. One is Cocoon, which won Best Debut Indie Game at The Game Awards 2023. Created by former Playdead developers, Cocoon puts you in the role of a beetle traveling through different worlds contained in orbs, creating unique and enchanting moments.
And then there’s Donut County, a 2018 game made by Neon White developer Ben Esposito. Following a raccoon named BK, Donut County has players controlling a hole that grows as it consumes more objects and people–a hole produced by BK’s selfish actions. This isn’t Donut County’s first stint on Game Pass, having previously left the service in January 2023 before rejoining in October 2024.
Also leaving is Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutants Unleashed, a 3D beat-’em-up based on the fan-favorite 2023 animated film Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem. The title first joined Game Pass just this past May. Finally, the mining sandbox game Core Keeper rounds out the list of four departing games.
As per usual, all of these games are 20% off for Game Pass members before they’re removed from the service on October 15. The games are leaving the service just as Microsoft announced a controversial price hike, raising the cost of Game Pass Ultimate to $30/month. Microsoft also touted a whopping 94 titles that are part of the newly restructured Game Pass model.
For those sticking with the service, GameSpot compiled the best Game Pass titles in 2025 and/ upcoming additions to look forward to.
Cocoon
Cocoon is leaving Xbox Game Pass for console, cloud, and PC on October 15.
Donut County
Donut County is leaving Xbox Game Pass for console, cloud, and PC on October 15.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutants Unleashed
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutants Unleashed is leaving Xbox Game Pass for console, cloud, and PC on October 15.
Core Keeper
Core Keeper is leaving Xbox Game Pass for console, cloud, and PC on October 15.
It’s always a bit disappointing to see games leaving Xbox Game Pass, especially when they include popular titles. Hopefully, players will get a chance to enjoy them before they go. It’s a reminder to make the most of the subscription while we can!
I completely agree—it’s tough to say goodbye to great games. It’s a good reminder to check out those titles before they go, especially since puzzle games often offer unique mechanics that can be hard to find elsewhere. Have you played any of them yet?
Absolutely! It’s always bittersweet when beloved games leave the platform. It might be a good opportunity to explore some lesser-known titles that are still available on Game Pass before the next wave of games arrives.
to revisit some of those classics before they’re gone. It’s interesting how games like these can spark nostalgia and even inspire new players to explore the genre. Have you played any of the titles that are leaving?
You’re right; it’s a great opportunity to revisit those classics! It’s fascinating how puzzle games can spark creativity and problem-solving skills in players. Hopefully, they’ll make a return to the service in the future!
Absolutely! Puzzle games really challenge our thinking and can provide a refreshing break from other genres. It’s interesting to see how these titles often have a timeless quality, making them enjoyable even after multiple playthroughs.