In a move that has delighted fans of classic platform games, Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy has officially joined the extensive library of titles available on Xbox Game Pass. This addition, which was eagerly anticipated following recent leaks, marks another significant step in the integration of Activision titles into the Game Pass service after Microsoft’s acquisition of the gaming giant in October.

A Classic Trilogy Reborn

Released in 2017, the Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy is a remastered collection of the first three games in the beloved series: Crash Bandicoot, Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back, and Crash Bandicoot: Warped. Developed by Vicarious Visions and published by Activision, the collection breathes new life into these iconic games, which originally debuted on the PlayStation in the late 1990s.

The remastered trilogy doesn’t just offer updated graphics; it also includes revamped cutscenes, a refreshed soundtrack, and re-recorded voiceovers. Quality-of-life improvements, such as a unified load and save menu, enhanced checkpoints, autosaves, and refined gameplay mechanics, make the experience more accessible to both new players and long-time fans. The collection also features both an unfinished level from the original games and an entirely new level, adding fresh content for players to explore.

The N. Sane Trilogy has been well-received since its launch, garnering predominantly positive reviews and achieving significant commercial success. As of recently, the trilogy has sold over 20 million units worldwide, underscoring its lasting appeal.

Expanding the Xbox Game Pass Library

Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy was added to Xbox Game Pass on August 8, 2024, further enriching the platform’s diverse selection of games. The addition of this classic trilogy is part of a broader trend of incorporating Activision titles into the service, a move that is expected to continue with other major releases. Among these, one of the most highly anticipated is Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, which will be available on Game Pass as a day-one release on October 25, 2024.

Xbox Game Pass Subscription Changes

As Xbox Game Pass continues to grow its library, subscribers are also facing changes in the service’s pricing. On July 10, 2024, Microsoft announced a price increase for both the Game Pass PC and Ultimate subscriptions. Starting September 12, 2024, the cost for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate will rise from $14.99 per month to $19.99 per month. This increase has sparked debate among gamers, with some questioning the value of the subscription at the higher price point.

For some players, the subscription remains a worthwhile investment due to the vast array of games available, particularly for those who take full advantage of the more than 100 titles offered in the Ultimate tier. Others, however, may find that purchasing individual games could be more cost-effective if they only play a select few titles each year.

For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, Xbox Game Pass Core offers a semi-fixed library of about 25 games for $9.99 per month. This tier provides a more limited selection but still includes access to a variety of quality titles.

Final Thoughts

The addition of Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy to Xbox Game Pass is a significant highlight for the service, offering subscribers the chance to relive or discover these classic games in their remastered glory. As Game Pass continues to expand, the growing library of titles—coupled with upcoming releases like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6—ensures that players have access to a wide range of gaming experiences. However, with the recent price hike, the value of the subscription service is increasingly becoming a matter of personal preference, depending on individual gaming habits and interests.

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