As August draws to a close, Xbox Game Pass subscribers are preparing to say goodbye to three major titles that have become staples in the library. These games—NBA 2K24, Atomic Heart, and Guilty Gear Strive—are set to leave the service on August 31. Fans who haven’t yet had the chance to dive into these games should take advantage of the remaining time, as they can also be purchased at a 20% discount before they are removed from Game Pass.
Let’s take a closer look at each game and what makes them worth your time before they’re gone.
Which Games Will Leave Xbox Game Pass on August 31?
The three games that will be leaving Xbox Game Pass on August 31 are:
- NBA 2K24: A beloved basketball simulation game that has been a favorite among sports fans.
- Atomic Heart: A first-person shooter set in an alternate history Soviet Union, known for its atmospheric design and narrative-driven gameplay.
- Guilty Gear Strive: A visually stunning and technically deep fighting game that has maintained a vibrant community since its release.
NBA 2K24
NBA 2K24 has been a hit among basketball enthusiasts, offering realistic gameplay, advanced graphics, and a deep MyCareer mode. As one of the flagship sports titles on Xbox Game Pass, it has attracted a large player base. With its removal, fans will have to look forward to the upcoming NBA 2K25, launching on September 6. However, it’s important to note that the new entry will not be immediately available on Game Pass, so purchasing NBA 2K24 at a discount might be the best way to keep the excitement alive if you’re not ready to make the leap just yet.
Atomic Heart
Atomic Heart stands out for its unique blend of first-person shooter mechanics and narrative-driven gameplay, set in an alternate history Soviet Union. Often compared to BioShock Infinite, the game brings a visually stunning world filled with bizarre, retro-futuristic technology and eerie, atmospheric settings. While the game received mixed reviews, with GameSpot noting that it “lacks follow-through on its most interesting narrative concepts,” it remains a fascinating experience for those who enjoy diving into thought-provoking, dystopian worlds. Whether you’re a fan of shooter games or narrative-driven adventures, Atomic Heart is worth playing before it disappears from Game Pass.
Guilty Gear Strive
For fighting game enthusiasts, Guilty Gear Strive has been a highlight on Xbox Game Pass since its addition. Lauded for its deep, technical gameplay and striking visuals, the game has continued to maintain a vibrant community of players. Even as it leaves Game Pass, Guilty Gear Strive’s journey is far from over. Fans have something exciting to look forward to with the arrival of Lucy from Cyberpunk Edgerunners as a guest character in 2025, which will further enhance the game’s already diverse roster. According to GameSpot, “Guilty Gear Strive continues the series’ legacy of complex and rewarding technical fighters,” making it a must-play title for both new and seasoned players in the genre.
What’s Next?
While it’s always a bummer to see games leave Xbox Game Pass, it’s also a reminder to explore these titles while you still can. With the upcoming release of NBA 2K25 and new content for Guilty Gear Strive on the horizon, there’s plenty for fans to look forward to. Meanwhile, keep an eye out for new additions to the Game Pass library, as Xbox consistently refreshes its offerings to keep the service exciting for players of all tastes.
In the meantime, take advantage of the discounted purchase options if you want to keep playing any of these titles beyond August 31. Whether you’re shooting hoops in NBA 2K24, exploring the strange world of Atomic Heart, or mastering combos in Guilty Gear Strive, these games are sure to leave a lasting impression.
The departure of NBA 2K24, Atomic Heart, and Guilty Gear Strive from Xbox Game Pass marks the end of an era for these beloved titles on the platform. Don’t miss your chance to experience these games before they’re gone, and consider picking them up at a discount if they’ve captured your interest. As always, Xbox Game Pass continues to deliver a rotating selection of games that cater to every type of gamer, so stay tuned for what’s coming next!
