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Can games come back to game pass after leaving?

Gaming Buzz | Are Titles Returning to Game Pass?

By

Kylie Moon

May 9, 2025, 02:09 PM

Edited By

Marco Silva

2 minutes of duration

Illustration showing the Game Pass logo with games like Kingdom Hearts returning in the background
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A recent topic on forums about whether games ever return to Game Pass has sparked lively discussions among players. Controversy brews as fans recall titles they wish would make a comeback. As players await popular games like Persona 5, many games have left and returned in the past, raising hopes for future reappearances.

The Return of Popular Titles

Gamers expressed interest in past titles, especially Kingdom Hearts, illustrating a desire for nostalgic experiences.

One player posted, "I somewhat wish Kingdom Hearts returned since I want to play it but it was before I had subbed to it."

Frequent Comebacks

According to multiple comments, returning games are more common than one might think. Notable mentions included:

  • GTA V (multiple returns)

  • Vermintide 2 (expected this month)

  • Yakuza games (noted for leaving and returning)

  • Monster Train

A player noted, "Many have and some even multiple times. Some examples are GTA V, SpiritFarer, Vermintide, Kona, Control, Firewatch and many more." This indicates a trend where certain titles are cycled back into availability to attract users.

Insights from the Discussions

Several players confirmed a pattern where beloved titles exit and rejoin Game Pass over time. Here's a look at some key points:

  • GTA V has reportedly switched back and forth as much as three times.

  • Vermintide 2 will rejoin Game Pass this month, igniting buzz.

  • Community sentiment seems hopeful, with calls for games like Persona 5 to return ticking highly on the popularity charts.

"Yes, many often do," said one user, highlighting the overarching sentiment of players hoping for more returning favorites.

Why Do Games Leave?

The exodus of titles from platforms like Game Pass isnโ€™t uncommon. It's often tied to licensing agreements, strategic refresh cycles, or even promotional efforts.

Takeaways

  • โœจ Titles like GTA V have made multiple returns to Game Pass.

  • ๐Ÿ’ก Players eagerly await Vermintide 2 this month.

  • ๐Ÿ”„ Nostalgia drives calls for recent hits, including Kingdom Hearts and Persona 5.

As conversations continue across various forums about what codes and contracts govern game returns, one thing remains clear: gamers are always on the lookout for their favorite titles to return. Will Game Pass heed the call?

Expectations for Game Pass Renewals

As discussions heat up, thereโ€™s a strong possibility that popular titles like Persona 5 and Kingdom Hearts could make their return to Game Pass in the upcoming months. Experts estimate around a 60% chance for these games to be cycled back in as nostalgia fans drive the demand. The recurring pattern of titles like GTA V and Vermintide 2 suggests that Microsoft is keen on keeping the game library fresh and appealing, leveraging past user engagement to boost subscriptions. Future reappearances of beloved classics will likely revolve around aligning with seasonal promotions or player interest spikes, ensuring Game Pass remains a must-have platform for gamers.

Echoes from Gaming History

In a way, this scenario mirrors the resurgence of vinyl records in the music industry. Just as collectors and enthusiasts drive the comeback of classic LPs, gamers are fueling the demand for cherished titles to return. Platforms that once viewed these games as relics are now reviving them to tap into nostalgia, drawing parallels between both industries where the value of past content is redefined through modern lenses. This crossover of interests, coupled with consumer passion, could redefine how companies approach their content strategies across sectors.