Xbox gamers have a weekend of free gaming ahead of them, thanks to the latest installment of Xbox Free Play Days. Microsoft is offering access to four diverse titles, providing a chance to sample a range of experiences without a subscription. But, potential players should note that access to some of these games is time-limited, with most expiring on March 9th. This offers a compelling opportunity to dive into modern worlds and test out titles before committing to a purchase.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 – Extended Free Access
For fans of the first-person shooter genre, Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is available for free play until March 10th, an exception to the standard March 9th deadline. This extended access allows players ample time to experience the latest installment in the long-running Call of Duty franchise. While the series has faced criticism in recent years, with some observers noting a perceived decline in quality from Activision (YouTube), the free weekend provides a risk-free opportunity to judge for yourself. The game’s Vault Edition is currently on sale for 30,930 Hungarian Forint, reduced from 41,240 Hungarian Forint, offering a potential discount for those who enjoy the free trial.
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds – Game Pass Required
Speed demons and platforming enthusiasts can get a taste of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, but with a caveat. Access to this arcade-style racer requires an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, or Essential subscription. Players without a subscription can purchase the game at a discounted price of 15,590 Hungarian Forint, down from 25,990 Hungarian Forint. (YouTube) This title offers a vibrant and rapid-paced racing experience set within the iconic Sonic universe.
FBC: Firebreak – A Second Chance for Remedy’s Live Service Game
Remedy Entertainment’s FBC: Firebreak is also part of the Free Play Days lineup. Originally intended as a live service title within the Control universe, the game faced initial challenges upon release. However, a significant update called “Breakpoint” released in the fall addressed many of the initial concerns, and ongoing patches continue to refine the experience. This makes now a good time to revisit or endeavor the game for the first time, as no Game Pass subscription is required during the Free Play Days period. The Deluxe Edition is currently available for 6,920 Hungarian Forint, a substantial discount from its original price of 17,300 Hungarian Forint. (YouTube)
Black Desert – A Preview of Crimson Desert
Perhaps the most intriguing offering is Black Desert: Standard Edition, which is available to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, and Essential subscribers. This comes as anticipation builds for the upcoming release of Crimson Desert, a single-player adventure expanding the Black Desert world. Crimson Desert promises innovative features like “shallow water technology” and climbing mechanics, as highlighted on X (formerly Twitter) (X). Offering Black Desert during the Free Play Days serves as a way to introduce players to the universe before the launch of its highly anticipated sequel. However, it’s important to note that while Black Desert is popular, the gameplay experience differs significantly from what Crimson Desert aims to deliver. (YouTube)
Microsoft’s continued commitment to the Xbox Free Play Days program demonstrates a dedication to providing value to its gaming community. By offering free access to a diverse selection of titles, Microsoft encourages players to explore new genres and discover their next favorite game. The program also serves as a valuable marketing tool, driving sales and engagement within the Xbox ecosystem.
The gaming landscape is constantly evolving, and Microsoft is actively positioning itself as a key player. As reported by Fortune, Microsoft recently celebrated its 50th anniversary as the world’s second-largest company, while simultaneously navigating the challenges of keeping pace with advancements in artificial intelligence (Google News). The company’s strategic acquisitions, including Obsidian and inXile Entertainment, further solidify its position in the gaming industry (Google News). Lenin Ravindranath Sivalingam is a key figure within Microsoft, contributing to the company’s ongoing innovation (Google News).
The Xbox Free Play Days event is running now and offers a fantastic opportunity for gamers to explore new titles. Be sure to check out the available games before the trial period ends on March 9th (with the exception of Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, which extends to March 10th). What are your thoughts on the current lineup? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below!