Xbox Game Pass Expanding with Assassin’s Creed, Aliens, and More

Steam Deck Users Face Potential Game Price Hikes Due to epic Games Store Integration

San Francisco, CA – Steam Deck owners adding the Epic Games Store (EGS) as a verified compatibility layer may soon encounter higher game prices, a growing concern within the handheld gaming community. While the integration itself offers expanded game access, it also exposes users to the EGS pricing structure, wich frequently enough differs from Steam’s.

The issue stems from the Epic Games Store’s frequent use of exclusive deals and timed sales, coupled wiht a generally higher base price for many titles compared to Steam. Users installing EGS games on their Steam Deck will be subject to these prices,potentially negating some of the cost savings associated with the handheld platform.

“adding the Epic Games Store to your steam Deck opens up a world of games, but it also opens up your wallet to potentially higher costs,” explains a recent report detailing the integration process. The convenience of a unified gaming library is being weighed against the financial implications for Steam Deck owners.Beyond the Headlines: Understanding the Evolving Landscape of PC Gaming

This situation highlights a broader trend in the PC gaming market: the increasing fragmentation of digital storefronts. Steam remains the dominant platform, but the rise of competitors like the Epic Games Store, GOG, and others is reshaping how games are purchased and played.

The Epic Games Store’s aggressive strategy of securing exclusives and offering generous developer revenue splits has disrupted the traditional Steam model. While this competition can benefit gamers through lower prices on certain titles, it also creates a more complex ecosystem.

For Steam Deck users,this means navigating multiple launchers and potentially paying different prices for the same game depending on where it’s purchased. The Steam Deck’s open nature allows for this flexibility,but it also places the onus on the user to make informed purchasing decisions.

Long-Term Implications & What Users can Do

The integration of the Epic Games Store into the Steam Deck is a significant step towards a more unified PC gaming experience, but it’s not without its drawbacks. As more users adopt this integration, the demand for price comparison tools and strategies will likely increase.

here are some key takeaways for Steam Deck owners:

Compare Prices: Always check prices on both Steam and the Epic Games Store before making a purchase.
Utilize Wishlists: Add games to your wishlist on both platforms to track sales and price changes.
Consider Regional Pricing: Explore regional pricing options if available, but be aware of potential account restrictions.
Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with gaming news and community discussions to learn about the latest deals and pricing trends.

The Steam Deck’s versatility is its strength, but users must be mindful of the evolving digital landscape to maximize their gaming value. The debate over platform exclusivity and pricing is highly likely to continue, shaping the future of PC gaming for years to come.

What is the primary benefit of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate compared to the other tiers?

New Games Joining the Xbox Game Pass Library – August 2025

Xbox Game Pass continues to solidify its position as the premier gaming subscription service, and August 2025 is shaping up to be a massive month for new additions. Gamers can look forward to a diverse lineup, headlined by highly anticipated titles like entries in the Assassin’s Creed franchise, the terrifying Aliens universe, and a host of other exciting games across Xbox consoles, PC, and cloud gaming. This expansion caters to a wide range of tastes, from action-adventure enthusiasts to horror fans and strategy gamers.

August’s Headline Additions: A Closer look

Here’s a breakdown of the key games joining Xbox Game Pass this August:

Assassin’s Creed Series: Several Assassin’s Creed titles are confirmed to be hitting Game Pass, offering players a chance to dive into past settings and experience the franchise’s signature blend of stealth, action, and parkour. Specific titles include Assassin’s Creed Valhalla and Assassin’s Creed Mirage.

Aliens: Dark Descent: Prepare for intense, squad-based tactical combat in Aliens: Dark Descent. This real-time strategy game puts you in command of a marine fireteam battling the Xenomorph threat. Expect a challenging and atmospheric experience.

Psychonauts 2: Razputin Aquato returns in this critically acclaimed platformer. Explore the wild and imaginative landscapes of the human mind in Psychonauts 2.

Indie Gems: A curated selection of indie titles will also be added, providing a platform for smaller developers and offering unique gaming experiences. Details on these titles will be released throughout the month.

Game Pass Perks & Benefits – Beyond the Games

Xbox Game Pass offers more than just access to a library of games. Subscribers benefit from:

Day-One Access: Many new releases, including first-party Xbox titles, are available to play on game Pass on the day of their launch.

Cross-Platform Play: Game Pass Ultimate includes access to games on Xbox consoles, PC, and via cloud gaming on compatible devices.

EA Play Integration: Game Pass Ultimate subscribers also get access to the EA Play library, expanding the available games even further.

Exclusive Discounts: Members receive discounts on games in the Microsoft Store.

Cloud Gaming: Play select titles on the go with Xbox Cloud Gaming, requiring only a stable internet connection.

Understanding Game Pass Tiers: Which is Right for You?

Xbox Game Pass offers several subscription tiers to suit different needs and budgets:

1. Game Pass Core: (Previously Xbox Live Gold) – Provides access to online console multiplayer, a select catalog of games, and exclusive deals.
2. PC Game Pass: – Offers access to a library of games on Windows PCs.
3. Console Game Pass: – provides access to a library of games on Xbox consoles.
4. Game Pass Ultimate: – The most comprehensive tier, including all the benefits of PC and Console Game Pass, plus Xbox Cloud Gaming, EA Play, and other perks.

Choosing the right tier depends on where you prefer to play your games and the features you value most. For those who want the ultimate gaming experience across all platforms, Game Pass Ultimate is the clear choice.

The Impact of Black Myth: Wukong and platform exclusivity

Recent developments surrounding Black Myth: Wukong highlight the evolving landscape of game distribution. The initial removal of Xbox platform support before launch, followed by a confirmed 2025 release on Xbox Series X|S, has sparked discussion about potential platform exclusivity deals. While not directly related to the August Game Pass additions, this situation underscores the importance of platform partnerships and the potential for timed or permanent exclusives. This also demonstrates the power of community feedback, as speculation suggests sony’s potential acquisition influenced the Xbox release.

Maximizing Your Game Pass Experience: Tips & Tricks

Utilize the “Quick Resume” Feature: Seamlessly switch between multiple games without losing your progress.

Download Games for Offline Play: Enjoy your favorite titles even without an internet connection.

Explore the “Leaving Soon” Section: Prioritize playing games before they are removed from the library.

Take Advantage of Game Trials: Try out new games before committing to a purchase.

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