Gears of War: E-Day and Minecraft Dungeons II Headline New Game Pass Additions

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Microsoft has unveiled a massive expansion for its Game Pass library, detailing 15 titles arriving between mid-September and early October 2026. The lineup is anchored by several high-profile sequels and day-one releases, including the long-awaited return of the Gears of War franchise and a new entry in the Minecraft Dungeons series.

This latest wave highlights a strategic pivot for the service, emphasizing console-exclusive blockbusters and expanded tier-based access. Leading the charge is Gears of War: E-Day, which is scheduled to launch on October 6, 2026. As a day-one addition to Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass, the title serves as a prequel set 14 years before the events of the original game. Developed as an Xbox console and PC exclusive, the title reportedly utilizes Unreal Engine 5’s MegaLights system, aiming to deliver shadow-casting light sources at a steady 60fps on Xbox Series X.

A dark, gritty industrial corridor with cinematic lighting.
will utilize Unreal Engine 5's MegaLights system for realistic lighting.

The late September schedule is equally robust. On September 22, the open-world survival MMO Dune: Awakening will make its console debut. Following its initial 2025 early access period on PC, the title arrives on Xbox Series X|S and Game Pass simultaneously. Shortly after, on September 29, Minecraft Dungeons II will launch for Xbox consoles, PC, and Cloud. Developed by Double Eleven and Mojang Studios, the sequel introduces new traversal mechanics, such as a dedicated jump ability, alongside specialized armor systems that allow for more distinct character builds than its predecessor.

Tier Expansions and Schedule

Beyond the major day-one launches, Microsoft is moving several established franchises into specific subscription tiers. The “Game Pass Premium” tier is seeing significant growth this month, with Ninja Gaiden 4 arriving on September 17 and Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 making its way to the tier on September 25. Meanwhile, the “Essential” tier will receive Rematch on September 25.

Abstract 3D voxel and desert landscape fusion.
The upcoming schedule includes a mix of survival MMOs and dungeon-crawling sequels.

The following timeline details the staggered release of the 15 confirmed titles:

  • September 15: RuneScape: Dragonwilds (Cloud, Console, and PC)
  • September 17: Ninja Gaiden 4 (Game Pass Premium)
  • September 22: Dune: Awakening (Cloud, Console, and PC)
  • September 25: Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 (Game Pass Premium); Rematch (Game Pass Essential)
  • September 29: Minecraft Dungeons II (Cloud, Console, and PC)
  • October 6: Gears of War: E-Day (Cloud, Console, and PC)

The inclusion of Gears of War: E-Day as a console exclusive marks a notable moment for the platform.

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James Scott
James Scott