Game Over: ‘Rise of the Tomb Raider’ and ‘The Quarry’ Say Goodbye to Xbox Game Pass

Xbox Game Pass users are facing a bittersweet farewell this December as several iconic games prepare to leave the service. Among the titles departing are Rise of the Tomb Raider, The Quarry, and Forza Horizon 4. Microsoft’s recent update confirms that a total of 13 games will exit both Xbox Game Pass and PC Game Pass, sparking a mix of nostalgia and urgency among players.

If you’ve been eyeing any of these titles, now’s the time to act. You can purchase them at a discounted price of 20% before their official removal in the next two weeks. But what makes these games so memorable, and why should you add them to your collection before they disappear?

A Fond Farewell to Gaming Legends

Rise of the Tomb Raider

The centrepiece of this farewell list, Rise of the Tomb Raider, is widely regarded as a masterpiece in modern action-adventure gaming. As the third entry in the rebooted Tomb Raider series, it elevated Lara Croft’s story to new heights with its compelling narrative, jaw-dropping visuals, and refined gameplay mechanics. IGN’s glowing 9/10 review praised its “improvements in every way” over its predecessor.

Set amidst the breathtaking Siberian wilderness, the game combines exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat in a seamless package. If you’ve yet to experience Lara’s quest for the lost city of Kitezh, this is your last chance to do so on Game Pass. Whether it’s scaling icy cliffs or taking on dangerous foes in the name of discovery, Rise of the Tomb Raider delivers an unforgettable adventure.

The Quarry

The Quarry, a cinematic horror experience, is another heavy hitter leaving Game Pass. Known for its branching storylines and intense decision-making mechanics, the game immerses players in a terrifying tale set at a remote summer camp. Developed by Supermassive Games, the creators of Until Dawn, it puts your survival instincts to the test as you navigate relationships and deadly situations.

With a strong cast of characters and multiple endings based on your choices, The Quarry offers immense replay value. If horror and storytelling are your thing, now’s the time to dive into its chilling world before it’s gone.

Other Noteworthy Departures

Forza Horizon 4

Perhaps the most gut-wrenching departure for many is Forza Horizon 4, an open-world racing gem beloved by fans and critics alike. Playground Games announced earlier this year that the game would be completely delisted due to licensing agreements with its partners. Scoring a stellar 9/10 in IGN’s review, this title offered a dynamic and immersive racing experience set against the backdrop of the British countryside.

From seasonal weather changes to endless car customization options, Forza Horizon 4 redefined what a racing game could be. Its departure leaves a void in the racing genre on Game Pass, so if you’re a fan of high-speed thrills, this is your last lap.

Why These Departures?

The removal of titles like Rise of the Tomb Raider, The Quarry, and Forza Horizon 4 underscores a recurring issue for subscription services: the fleeting nature of digital libraries. Games come and go based on licensing agreements, leaving players with limited windows to experience some of the best the medium has to offer.

For Forza Horizon 4, licensing challenges mean the game won’t just leave Game Pass—it’ll be delisted entirely. This adds an extra layer of urgency for fans to purchase it outright if they hope to continue racing through its stunning environments.

How to Keep Playing

Microsoft offers a silver lining for Game Pass subscribers: a 20% discount on all departing titles until their removal. This is a generous gesture for those who’ve fallen in love with these games during their time in the service. With discounts applied, you can add these gems to your permanent library without breaking the bank.

Games Leaving: The Complete List

Here’s a snapshot of all the games leaving Xbox Game Pass and PC Game Pass this December:

• Rise of the Tomb Raider
• The Quarry
• Forza Horizon 4
• Amnesia: The Bunker
• Forager
• Tin Hearts
• Rainbow Billy: The Curse of the Leviathan

Each title brings something unique to the table, from chilling horror to lighthearted exploration. While their departure is bittersweet, their legacy as Game Pass staples will remain.