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After the recent price increase for Game Pass Ultimate, the initial commotion has subsided. While it might not be considered the top deal in gaming anymore, the service has introduced several high-profile day-one releases lately, such as Ninja Gaiden 4 and The Outer Worlds 2. Those additions only enhance a vast library of numerous games perfect for weekend gaming binges.

This week's picks feature a cathartic shooter, an award-winning independent gem, and a must-play HD-2D RPG.

Resistance: Sniper Elite

Every so often, we all require a bit of release. Over two decades, the Sniper Elite series has provided precisely that. Rebellion Developments' long-running shooter line offers players ultraviolent carnage against enemy forces. This year, Rebellion released Sniper Elite: Resistance, a well-timed new entry to the franchise. Although it doesn't reinvent the formula, Resistance remains a well-constructed serving of immersive sim World War II open environments packed with Nazi targets. The long-range combat is as visceral and gratifying as ever, with the series' signature killcam displaying each shot's impact in gory, explicit detail. It's a violent excitement for every pacifist wanting to let off steam in the safety of a digital space.

Resist 1000x

1000xResist presents an award-winning story touching on life after a pandemic life, family pain, and much more. It examines these subjects through a science fiction perspective; you assume the role of Watcher, one of several clones of Iris, the only survivor of a pandemic that wiped out human life. Watcher and her fellow clones delve into Iris's recollections from the time Earth was ravaged by that horrific disease, as well as memories of her school and home life, neither of which were easy for a teenager. Watcher learns Iris is not all that she seems, and the story unfolds from that point. Should all that mystery isn't enough to grab your interest, the game does begin with a murder. What could be a more gripping start than this?

Octopath Traveler II

Admittedly, finishing a extremely long RPG in only over a week is a tall order, but if any game deserving trying the grind for, it's Octopath Traveler 2. Square Enix's visually striking gem is leaving Game Pass at the close of the month (as is the first game, which is also included). However, due to a holiday in the midst, at least for those in the States, it's technically achievable. Octopath Traveler 2 features eight characters, each representing a distinct story style. There's a procedural story about a priest investigating the murder of his cathedral's archbishop. A trader aiming to solve destitution through the force of commerce headlines a western-themed adventure. Additionally, there's a mystery about an apothecary with amnesia (because all great RPGs need a character with an mysterious past, of course). Some of these plots connect in surprising, fascinating ways, while you progress through a stunning Industrial Revolution themed setting. And the combat is excellent — “number go up” boiled to its essence.