Xbox Game Pass subscribers are in for a treat this weekend (May 15-17) with a diverse wave of new titles hitting the service in early May 2026. Amidst the buzz around Mixtape and the critically acclaimed Forza Horizon 6, three standout games are ready to captivate your gaming hours: Subnautica 2, Black Jacket, and Call of the Elder Gods. Here’s why you shouldn’t miss them.
Quick Facts
| Developer | ['Out of the Blue Games'] |
|---|---|
| Platform(s) | Xbox |
| Release Date | ['May 2026 (exact date not specified for all games)'] |
| Genre | Survival, Deckbuilding Roguelike, Narrative-focused Adventure |
Subnautica 2 has made a splash, selling over two million copies and garnering over 13,000 "Very Positive" Steam reviews. This underwater exploration and base-building game, now in early access, promises "more of the same, but better" according to Polygon's impressions piece, highlighting its strength as a survival game with vast potential. Whether solo or in co-op, players dive into documenting alien life forms and building bases, with beginner's tips and guides available for new players.
Diving Deeper into Each Title
Black Jacket offers a unique blend of deckbuilding and roguelike elements, inspired by the simplicity of Blackjack. The goal remains to reach 21, but with twists: cards can decrease your total, be swapped between players, and a limited coin system adds pressure. Each failed run reveals more about your character's plight in hell, making every attempt a narrative progression.
Call of the Elder Gods, developed by Out of the Blue Games, combines the adventurous spirit of Indiana Jones with the eerie mysteries of Lovecraft. This narrative-focused adventure challenges players with increasingly complex puzzles that require keen observation. As noted in our impressions, "Out of the Blue Games is on to something," particularly in crafting puzzles that demand close attention to detail.
Why You Should Care This Weekend
This wave of Xbox Game Pass additions caters to a broad spectrum of gaming interests. For fans of survival and exploration, Subnautica 2 is a must-play, especially given its positive community reception and the depth of its underwater world. Black Jacket appeals to strategy enthusiasts with its innovative card mechanics, while Call of the Elder Gods is perfect for those seeking a challenging, narrative-driven experience.
With Subnautica 2’s commercial success and critical acclaim, alongside the unique selling points of Black Jacket and Call of the Elder Gods, this weekend is an excellent time to explore what Xbox Game Pass has to offer. Whether you're in the mood for exploration, strategy, or puzzle-solving, these titles promise an engaging gaming experience.
Quick Picks Summary
- Subnautica 2 — Enhanced Underwater Survival and Base Building
- Black Jacket — Strategic Deckbuilding with a Blackjack Twist
- Call of the Elder Gods — Lovecraftian Mystery with Challenging Puzzles
Quote Highlights:
"definitely more of the same, but better"
Polygon
"Out of the Blue Games is on to something"
On Call of the Elder Gods
Closing Thoughts
This early May wave for Xbox Game Pass sets a high bar for the rest of the month, catering to diverse gaming tastes. With Subnautica 2’s proven success, Black Jacket’s innovative gameplay, and Call of the Elder Gods’s puzzling depth, subscribers have plenty to look forward to. Dive in this weekend and discover your new favorite game.
