In just four short months, 2023 has already become a banner year for horror games led by the acclaimed Dead Space and Resident Evil 4 remakes, as well as the popular Dead Island 2. Across virtually all media platforms, horror content seems to be thriving thanks to an increased consumer desire for scary films, television shows, and videogames. Xbox has seemingly taken notice of horror’s ascending role in the cultural zeitgeist, as the console’s Game Pass subscription service is set to offer three highly differentiated spooky exclusives, including two that will launch within the span of a week. Let’s examine Xbox’s upcoming trifecta of creepy exclusives and explain why an understated Microsoft trend should startle PlayStation-loyal horror fans.
The Last Case of Benedict Fox
Release Date: April 27, 2023
Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X|S
Developer: Plot Twist (Published by Rogue Games Inc.)
Game Pass Day One?: Yes
Description: The H.P. Lovecraft inspired The Last Case of Benedict Fox picked up the “Most Wanted Xbox Game” award at Gamescom in 2022. Its description explains, “Take on the last case of Benedict Fox and dive into a twisted world of secret organizations, forbidden rituals, and cold-blooded murders. Explore the memories of deceased victims as you search for clues and fight demons in this fantastical Lovecraftian Metroidvania.”
Last of Us Part III is still many years away in all likelihood. Furthermore, it is extremely doubtful that either of those games will launch on the exclusive PlayStation Plus subscription service, unlike the aforementioned day one Xbox Game Pass titles. This means that there is a gap in Sony’s current horror offerings (at least for the short term), which Microsoft has identified and is attempting to exploit.