Xbox Game Pass subscribers have a stellar lineup to dive into over the weekend of May 8-10, 2026, with three titles standing out as must-plays. Whether you're craving intense combat, a nostalgic narrative, or a quick yet captivating puzzle platformer, Game Pass has you covered. Here’s a breakdown of our top picks for the weekend, including a game that's about to leave the service, so act fast.
The recent theatrical release of Mortal Kombat 2 has split critics, with Polygon's Jake Kleinman succinctly capturing the film's essence:
"feels more like a series of well-choreographed fight scenes set against meticulously crafted backdrops, then strung together with a plot and dialogue that recreates the experience of watching a video game cutscene."
Jake Kleinman, Polygon
For those seeking more substantial martial arts mayhem, Mortal Kombat 1 on Game Pass is the perfect antidote. As the latest reboot in the franchise, it retains the rich backstories of beloved characters while introducing new roles for others, all backed by the series' hallmark combo-heavy combat and the innovative assisting Kameo Fighters, which add a fresh strategic layer to battles.
About Mortal Kombat 1
Mortal Kombat 1 is developed by NetherRealm Studios and published by Warner Bros. Games, available on both Xbox and PC via Game Pass. This reboot is not just a graphical overhaul but a narrative refresh that still honors the lore fans love. The introduction of Kameo Fighters allows for more dynamic battles, enabling players to summon allies for brief, powerful assists, which can turn the tide of combat. For example, characters like Kano can call in allies to deliver a quick, devastating strike, adding a new layer of depth to the game's famous "Fatalities." If the movie's fight scenes were the highlight for you, the game promises to deliver on that front and more, with its intricate combat system and the return of fan-favorite characters.
The timing couldn't be better for a deep dive into Mortal Kombat 1, especially for fans of the franchise looking for a more satisfying experience than the mixed-bag movie. With its blend of old and new elements, Mortal Kombat 1 is a must-play for both veterans and newcomers to the series.
Nostalgic Nights with Mixtape
For a stark change of pace, Mixtape offers a heartfelt, narrative-driven adventure steeped in 1980s and '90s nostalgia. Following three high school friends on their last night together in California before one embarks on a music career in New York, the game is a poignant exploration of friendship and dreams. A unique feature allows players to create their own mixtape on the game's website, complete with tracks from iconic bands like Devo, Joy Division, and Iggy Pop, further enhancing the nostalgic vibe. This personal touch reflects the game's theme of cherished memories and the power of music to capture moments in time.
Mixtape’s narrative is interspersed with flashbacks to pivotal moments in the friends' relationship, including a memorable escapade in an abandoned dinosaur theme park. With its strong focus on character development and nostalgia, Mixtape is ideal for players seeking an emotional, story-first experience over the weekend.
Race Against Time for Planet of Lana
Lastly, Planet of Lana is a cinematic puzzle platformer that will leave Xbox Game Pass on May 15, making this weekend your last chance to play it before it departs. Fortunately, the game's compact design means it can be completed in just 4 to 5 hours, perfect for a weekend binge. Planet of Lana follows the journey of Lana and her alien cat companion, Mui, as they navigate through a beautiful yet dangerous world to rescue kidnapped villagers from robotic captors.
The game excels in its challenging yet rewarding environmental puzzles and the symbiotic relationship between Lana and Mui, which is crucial for overcoming obstacles and avoiding deadly creatures. With Planet of Lana 2 also available on Game Pass, players can seamlessly transition into the sequel upon completing the first game, offering a continuous gaming experience for those who fall in love with the series.
What This Means for Players
This weekend’s Game Pass picks cater to a wide range of tastes, from the adrenaline-fueled combat of Mortal Kombat 1 to the nostalgic storytelling of Mixtape and the urgent, puzzle-solving thrill of Planet of Lana before its departure. Whether you're a fan of action, narrative-driven games, or platformers, Xbox Game Pass has ensured there's no shortage of quality content to enjoy.
Given the diverse offerings, the key takeaway is the service's continued ability to balance blockbuster titles with indie gems, even after the recent pricing adjustments. For players, this means a consistent stream of varied gaming experiences without the need for individual game purchases.
Key Takeaways
Key Takeaways
- Mortal Kombat 1 offers deep combat and a fresh reboot for the series.
- Mixtape provides a nostalgic, story-first experience with a customizable soundtrack.
- Planet of Lana must be played before May 15; its sequel is also on Game Pass.
As the gaming landscape evolves, services like Xbox Game Pass continue to play a crucial role in discovery and accessibility. This weekend's recommendations embody the platform's strength in curating a diverse lineup that appeals to broad gaming interests.
Looking ahead, keep an eye on the upcoming additions scheduled for after May 15, especially to see how the post-price-change content strategy unfolds. For now, dive into these three titles for a satisfying gaming weekend.
