Xbox Game Pass April 2026: 18 Games Confirmed Wave 1 Lineup Skip to main content
Xbox Game Pass April 2026: 18 Games Confirmed Wave 1
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Xbox Game Pass April 2026: 18 Games Confirmed Wave 1

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smartly.sale Team
April 7, 2026
13 min read

TL;DR

Microsoft just announced the massive Xbox Game Pass April 2026 Wave 1 lineup featuring 18+ confirmed games. Hades II arrives April 14 alongside Elder Scrolls Oblivion Remastered, Replaced, and more day-one releases across all Game Pass tiers.

Xbox Game Pass April 2026 Wave 1: 18+ Games Confirmed Including Hades II and Oblivion Remastered

Breaking News: Microsoft just announced the official Xbox Game Pass April 2026 Wave 1 lineup featuring 18+ confirmed titles including Hades II, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, Replaced, Kiln, and Vampire Crawlers. Several games launch day-one on the service starting April 7, 2026.

Xbox Game Pass subscribers are getting an absolutely stacked April 2026, and Microsoft just made it official. The company revealed a whole pile of games coming soon to Game Pass, including some announced in the most recent Partner Preview , with the biggest wave of new titles dropping between April 7-23, 2026.

This isn't just another standard monthly update— Xbox Game Pass April 2026 Wave 1 is massive, with a full list of arrivals and departures scheduled for April 15 . From critically acclaimed roguelikes to classic RPG remasters and highly anticipated indie releases, there's genuinely something for every type of gamer this month.

Here's everything you need to know about the Xbox Game Pass April 2026 Wave 1 lineup, including exact release dates, which tier you need, and what games are leaving the service.

Complete Xbox Game Pass April 2026 Wave 1 Game List

Microsoft announced that Kiln, Hades II, Vampire Crawlers, and more are coming soon to Xbox Game Pass , with the official Xbox Wire blog revealing the complete Wave 1 schedule.

Here's the full confirmed lineup with exact release dates:

Game Title Release Date Available Tiers Platforms
Final Fantasy IV April 7, 2026 Ultimate, Premium, PC Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, PC
DayZ April 8, 2026 All tiers PC
Endless Legend 2 (Game Preview) April 8, 2026 Premium, Ultimate, PC PC
FBC: Firebreak April 8, 2026 Premium, Ultimate, PC Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Planet Coaster 2 April 9, 2026 Ultimate, Premium, PC Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Tiny Bookshop April 10, 2026 Ultimate, Premium, PC Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, PC
Football Manager 26 (PC) April 13, 2026 Premium, Ultimate, PC PC
Football Manager 26 Console April 13, 2026 Premium, Ultimate, PC Cloud, Console, PC
Hades II April 14, 2026 Ultimate, Premium, PC Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, PC
Replaced April 14, 2026 Ultimate, PC Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, PC
The Thaumaturge April 14, 2026 Ultimate, Premium, PC Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered April 16, 2026 Premium, Ultimate, PC Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, PC
EA Sports NHL 26 April 16, 2026 Ultimate, PC Cloud, Xbox Series X|S
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare April 17, 2026 Ultimate, Premium, PC Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S
Little Rocket Lab April 21, 2026 Premium, Ultimate, PC PC
Sopa: Tale of the Stolen Potato April 21, 2026 Premium, Ultimate, PC PC
Vampire Crawlers April 21, 2026 Ultimate, PC Cloud, PC, Handheld, Xbox Series X|S
Kiln April 23, 2026 Ultimate, PC Cloud, PC, Handheld, Xbox Series X|S

A few games will leave Game Pass on April 15, so make sure to check out the full list of April's upcoming Game Pass titles before they disappear .

Pro Tip: If you want to maximize your Game Pass value this month, prioritize the day-one releases (Hades II, Replaced, Kiln, Vampire Crawlers) since these are brand-new titles that won't be discounted elsewhere yet. Check out our game deals section for additional savings on Game Pass subscriptions.

Hades II: The Biggest Addition This Month

Hades II launches April 14 for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox on PC and Xbox Cloud, and will be an Xbox Play Anywhere title, available day one with Xbox Game Pass . This is arguably the most significant Game Pass addition for April 2026.

What Makes Hades II Special

Hades II became the best-reviewed game of 2025 according to Metacritic and OpenCritic, following its v1.0 launch on PC, Nintendo Switch 2, and Nintendo Switch on September 25 last year . Xbox and PlayStation players have been waiting months for this release, and it's finally happening.

The version coming to Xbox includes all the post-launch patches released for other platforms, including additional quality-of-life improvements and some bonus content, making this the most complete version of the game yet .

Key Features and Improvements

The key change is in who you're playing as—Melinoë is the long-lost sister of the first game's protagonist, Zagreus, which provides a neat way to make them feel similar, but play differently .

Major gameplay changes include:

  • Melinoë swaps short dashes for longer dashes, and gains a new ability to sprint
  • Instead of Zagreus's long-range Cast attack, Melinoë's version is an AOE attack around her current position, entrapping enemies
  • Instead of spawnable Companions, Hades II offers Animal Familiars who follow you throughout your runs, offering time-saving abilities, extra attacks, and useful buffs
  • Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 versions run at an ultrafast 120 frames per second

Performance and Technical Details

Xbox Game Pass subscribers get immediate access at no extra cost. The game will be an Xbox Play Anywhere title, and available day one with Xbox Game Pass , meaning you can play across console, PC, and cloud with synchronized saves.

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Elder Scrolls Oblivion Remastered Joins Game Pass Premium

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered arrives on Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC on April 16, available with Game Pass Premium and joining Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass .

What's Included in Oblivion Remastered

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is a 2025 action role-playing game co-developed by Virtuos and Bethesda Game Studios, featuring a full graphics overhaul using Unreal Engine 5 and various improvements, from sprinting to redesigned menus .

Oblivion Remastered includes all of the original game's downloadable content, including the expansion packs Knights of the Nine and Shivering Isles .

Critical Reception and Performance

The game received strong reviews at launch. Oblivion Remastered received "generally favorable" reviews from critics according to Metacritic, with OpenCritic determining that 87% of critics recommended the game . It also won "Best Remake / Remaster" at the 2025 Golden Joystick Awards .

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered reached 4 million players three days after release, with a peak of 216,000 concurrent players on Steam , proving there's massive demand for classic RPG remasters.

Performance Note: While Oblivion Remastered was criticized for launch performance issues on PC, Bethesda has released multiple optimization patches since April 2025. Console versions generally perform better than the initial PC release.

Day-One Releases: Replaced, Kiln, and Vampire Crawlers

April 2026 brings several brand-new games launching simultaneously on Game Pass—one of the service's biggest value propositions.

Replaced (April 14, 2026)

Replaced is available day one with Xbox Game Pass for Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass tiers, where you expose the sinister secrets of Phoenix Corp as R.E.A.C.H., an AI trapped in a human body, set in an alternate 1980s America .

After a long wait, this cyberpunk-inspired action platformer features beautiful sprite art, fluid combat reminiscent of the Batman: Arkham series, and a Blade Runner-style story set in a dystopian future .

Vampire Crawlers (April 21, 2026)

From the creators of the 2022 hit Vampire Survivors, this new entry blends the auto-shooter formula with turn-based deckbuilding mechanics and could become one of the year's surprise indie successes .

This is a completely different take on the Vampire Survivors universe, appealing to fans of roguelike deckbuilders like Slay the Spire while maintaining the addictive loop that made the original so popular.

Kiln (April 23, 2026)

From Double Fine Productions, Kiln is a party brawler with a unique pottery theme. Doublefine's pottery-themed brawler joins other day-one releases including the long-awaited dystopian adventure Replaced and the deck-building game Vampire Crawlers .

This multiplayer-focused title is perfect for couch co-op sessions and adds variety to the typically single-player-heavy Game Pass lineup.

Classic RPGs and Major Franchises

Final Fantasy IV (April 7, 2026)

Final Fantasy IV arrives on Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC for Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, and PC Game Pass on April 7, where the Kingdom of Baron begins to attack the surrounding countries and Cecil the dark knight joins forces with Kain the dragoon, Rosa the white mage, Rydia the summoner, and more to fight against Baron .

The classic SNES RPG is widely regarded as one of the strongest entries in the series before Final Fantasy VII, offering a perfect opportunity for both longtime fans and retro newcomers to experience its timeless story and gameplay .

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (April 17, 2026)

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare will be available through Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, and PC Game Pass for cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S on April 17 . This continues Microsoft's commitment to bringing the entire Call of Duty franchise to Game Pass following their Activision acquisition.

Planet Coaster 2 (April 9, 2026)

Planet Coaster 2 launches on Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC for Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, and PC Game Pass on April 9, letting you build and customize thrilling roller coasters and incredible water slides while managing the ultimate theme park experience .

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Games Leaving Xbox Game Pass April 15

As always, a few games will leave Game Pass on April 15 . Microsoft follows a regular rotation schedule, removing older titles to make room for new additions.

Important: If you want to keep playing any departing games after April 15, you'll need to purchase them outright. Game Pass subscribers typically receive a 20% discount on games in the catalog.

While Microsoft hasn't officially announced which specific titles are leaving yet in the April 7 Wave 1 announcement, they typically reveal the departure list around the 10th-12th of each month. We'll update this article once the official list drops.

What to Do Before Games Leave

  • Check your library: Review games you've been meaning to play but haven't started
  • Finish campaigns: Prioritize story-driven games you're close to completing
  • Claim achievements: Grab easy achievements before games disappear
  • Buy with discount: Use your 20% Game Pass member discount if you want to keep playing
  • Save your progress: Ensure cloud saves are synced before games are removed

Which Game Pass Tier Do You Need?

Xbox Game Pass now operates on a multi-tier system, and not all April 2026 games are available on every tier. Here's the breakdown:

Game Pass Ultimate ($16.99/month)

  • Access to all 18+ Wave 1 games
  • Cloud gaming included
  • Day-one releases like Hades II, Replaced, Kiln, Vampire Crawlers
  • EA Play membership included
  • Online multiplayer on console
  • Best value for console players who want everything

Game Pass Premium (Console-only tier)

  • Access to most Wave 1 games
  • Day-one releases included
  • Oblivion Remastered on April 16
  • No cloud gaming
  • Good for console-only players who don't need PC/cloud

PC Game Pass ($11.99/month)

  • PC versions of Wave 1 games
  • Day-one releases on PC
  • No console or cloud access
  • Perfect for PC-only gamers

Game Pass Essential (formerly Game Pass Core)

  • Very limited Wave 1 access
  • Game Pass Essential subscribers can grab Warhammer Vermintide 2 (Cloud and Console) and DayZ (PC), starting April 8
  • Mainly for online multiplayer access
  • Not recommended if you want new games
Money-Saving Tip: New subscribers can often find promotional pricing for their first 1-3 months. Check the official Xbox store or authorized retailers before subscribing at full price. Also explore our guide to earning GCash to offset subscription costs.

Is Xbox Game Pass Worth It in April 2026?

Xbox Game Pass continues to deliver excellent value with this mix of blockbuster releases, beloved classics, and promising new titles, with the addition of Hades II alone making April a standout month .

Breaking Down the Value

Let's calculate the actual value of April 2026's Wave 1 lineup:

Game Retail Price (USD)
Hades II $29.99
Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered $49.99
Replaced $29.99 (estimated)
Planet Coaster 2 $49.99
Final Fantasy IV $14.99
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare $69.99
Total Value (6 games only) $244.94

For just $16.99 with Game Pass Ultimate, you're getting access to games worth over $244—and that's only counting 6 of the 18+ titles. The value proposition is undeniable.

Who Should Subscribe This Month

Definitely subscribe if you:

  • Want to play Hades II without paying $29.99
  • Are curious about Oblivion but don't want to pay $49.99
  • Enjoy trying multiple genres each month
  • Play on both PC and console
  • Like day-one indie releases

Maybe skip if you:

  • Only play one specific game (like Fortnite or Valorant)
  • Prefer to own games permanently
  • Have a massive backlog on other platforms
  • Rarely play more than 1-2 games per month

Regional Pricing Considerations

For Filipino gamers, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate costs ₱549/month, which is significantly cheaper than buying even two full-price games. The sheer variety on offer is what makes this month shine, from Hades II on Game Pass to the stunning REPLACED, the creativity of People of Note, and the chaos of Vampire Crawlers .

Consider using our GCash earning methods to fund your subscription without spending out-of-pocket money.

Final Thoughts: Xbox Game Pass April 2026 Wave 1

Microsoft is absolutely delivering in April 2026. With 18+ confirmed games spanning every major genre, multiple day-one releases, and heavy-hitters like Hades II and Oblivion Remastered, this might be one of the strongest Game Pass months in 2026 so far.

As always, more games may be announced throughout the month, so stay tuned for more updates as they come . Microsoft typically announces a "Wave 2" lineup around the middle of each month, so we could see even more titles added to the April roster.

The combination of critically acclaimed sequels, classic RPG remasters, innovative indie titles, and major sports franchises makes Xbox Game Pass an incredible value proposition this month—especially for gamers in the Philippines and Southeast Asia where regional pricing makes it even more affordable.

Ready to Jump In?

Don't miss out on Hades II, Oblivion Remastered, and 16+ other games this April. Whether you're a hardcore RPG fan, indie enthusiast, or just looking for the best gaming value, Xbox Game Pass delivers.

New to Game Pass? Check out promotional offers for new subscribers, and explore our gaming deals section for the best subscription pricing. Filipino gamers can also read our guide to earning GCash through gaming to offset your monthly costs.

For more gaming news, free rewards guides, and the latest updates on Xbox, PlayStation, Mobile Legends, and more, bookmark smartly.sale and follow us for daily updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Hades 2 release on Xbox Game Pass?

Hades II releases on Xbox Game Pass on April 14, 2026. It will be available day-one for Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, and PC Game Pass subscribers across Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, and PC platforms. The Xbox version includes all post-launch patches and runs at 120fps on Xbox Series X.

Is Elder Scrolls Oblivion Remastered free with Game Pass?

Yes, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered joins Xbox Game Pass on April 16, 2026. It's available with Game Pass Premium, Game Pass Ultimate, and PC Game Pass. The remaster includes all DLC, the Shivering Isles and Knights of the Nine expansions, and features completely rebuilt graphics using Unreal Engine 5.

What games are leaving Xbox Game Pass in April 2026?

Microsoft typically announces departing games around April 15, 2026. Games usually leave on the 15th of each month. Check the official Xbox Wire blog or the Game Pass app for the official list. As a Game Pass member, you receive a 20% discount if you want to purchase any departing games to keep playing.

Do I need Game Pass Ultimate or will Premium work for April 2026 games?

Most April 2026 Wave 1 games are available on both Game Pass Premium and Ultimate. However, Ultimate offers cloud gaming, PC access, and EA Play. Some games like Replaced and Kiln are only on Ultimate and PC Game Pass (not Premium). Check the tier availability in the full game list above before subscribing.

How many games are in Xbox Game Pass April 2026 Wave 1?

Xbox Game Pass April 2026 Wave 1 includes 18+ confirmed games releasing between April 7-23, 2026. This includes major titles like Hades II, Oblivion Remastered, Replaced, Kiln, Vampire Crawlers, Final Fantasy IV, Planet Coaster 2, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, and more. Microsoft may announce additional Wave 2 games mid-month.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When does Hades 2 release on Xbox Game Pass?
Hades II releases on Xbox Game Pass on April 14, 2026. It will be available day-one for Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, and PC Game Pass subscribers across Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, and PC platforms. The Xbox version includes all post-launch patches and runs at 120fps on Xbox Series X.
Is Elder Scrolls Oblivion Remastered free with Game Pass?
Yes, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered joins Xbox Game Pass on April 16, 2026. It's available with Game Pass Premium, Game Pass Ultimate, and PC Game Pass. The remaster includes all DLC, the Shivering Isles and Knights of the Nine expansions, and features completely rebuilt graphics using Unreal Engine 5.
What games are leaving Xbox Game Pass in April 2026?
Microsoft typically announces departing games around April 15, 2026. Games usually leave on the 15th of each month. Check the official Xbox Wire blog or the Game Pass app for the official list. As a Game Pass member, you receive a 20% discount if you want to purchase any departing games to keep playing.
Do I need Game Pass Ultimate or will Premium work for April 2026 games?
Most April 2026 Wave 1 games are available on both Game Pass Premium and Ultimate. However, Ultimate offers cloud gaming, PC access, and EA Play. Some games like Replaced and Kiln are only on Ultimate and PC Game Pass (not Premium). Check the tier availability in the full game list above before subscribing.
How many games are in Xbox Game Pass April 2026 Wave 1?
Xbox Game Pass April 2026 Wave 1 includes 18+ confirmed games releasing between April 7-23, 2026. This includes major titles like Hades II, Oblivion Remastered, Replaced, Kiln, Vampire Crawlers, Final Fantasy IV, Planet Coaster 2, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, and more. Microsoft may announce additional Wave 2 games mid-month.
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smartly.sale Team

Gaming journalist and deals expert covering the latest in gaming news, tips, and free-to-play opportunities for Filipino gamers and beyond.