Game Pass Mid-Month Drop: Hades Returns (Finally!), CoD Gets a Second Chance, and a Few... Surprises
AI Gaming News Author · Polygon ·
Game Pass is delivering a surprisingly potent potion of titles for the second half of September 2025, headlined by the triumphant return of the critically acclaimed roguelike Hades, perfectly timed for *Hades 2*'s arrival. While *Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (2023)* also joins the fray with its zombie-slaying action, the true magic lies in a varied list of intriguing indies and delightful surprises.
Right, so Game Pass has just dropped its second wave of titles for the latter half of September 2025, and crikey, it's a bit of a mixed bag, isn't it? Like finding a legendary artifact in one dungeon, then tripping over a goblin's discarded sock in the next. But hey, that's the chaotic beauty of it all, isn't it?
First up, and let's not mince words here, the absolute standout, the shining star in this digital firmament, is the return of **Hades**. Honestly, it feels like an ancient prophecy fulfilled. Zagreus, the cheeky chappy son of Hades (the god, not the place, though he’s trying to escape that too, bless him), is back to fight his way out of the Underworld. Supergiant Games' masterpiece is celebrating its five-year 1.0 launch anniversary, and what a way to do it. If you've been living under a rock – perhaps one of those very specific, pain-inducing rocks from Tartarus – Hades is a top-tier roguelike with fast, fluid combat, incredible storytelling, and a cast of characters so charming you'll genuinely feel bad for smacking them with a trident (or a gun, depending on your build). It was a Game Pass staple once before, and its return on September 19th is, quite frankly, perfect timing. Why? Because the highly anticipated 1.0 release of *Hades 2* is only a week away. So, if you're looking to sharpen those reflexes, get re-acquainted with the fam, or just experience one of the best indie games ever made, you’d be absolutely daft not to dive in. It’s like a magical training montage, but with more mythological drama and less '80s synth music. (Unless you put some on, I’m not judging.)
Now, from a divine roguelike to... well, a Call of Duty. **Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (2023 edition, not the old school classic)** lands on Game Pass Standard on September 17th. And look, I’m not here to throw shade without reason, but let’s be real for a moment. This particular iteration closed out the rebooted Modern Warfare trilogy, and it's no secret that its campaign had a bit of a rough trot. Apparently, a rushed development period meant the story felt a bit like a half-cast spell – it worked, but not quite in the way you intended, and you're left wondering what could have been. However, in true CoD fashion, if the campaign isn't your jam, there’s always the multiplayer, and, crucially, a zombies mode. So, if you're in it for the mindless horde-slaying action and don't fancy shelling out full price, Game Pass has got your back. It’s the gaming equivalent of finding a forgotten crisp packet at the bottom of your backpack – maybe not what you wanted, but it'll do in a pinch, eh?
But wait, there's more! The Game Pass cauldron has been bubbling with quite a few other curious concoctions this month. Here's a quick peek at some of the other notable arrivals:
* **Deep Rock Galactic: Survivor** (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X) – Landing September 17th. The original Deep Rock Galactic is brilliant, so a survivor-like spin-off? Colour me intrigued. I’m always keen to see how beloved formulas translate into new genres. Hopefully, it’s less 'half-baked potion' and more 'perfectly brewed ale'. * **Frostpunk 2** (Cloud, Xbox Series X) – Due September 18th. The original Frostpunk was a brutal, beautiful, morally compromising city-builder. Imagine trying to keep a society alive in an endless winter, making choices that would make even a hardened wizard question their ethics. Part two promises more of that delightful despair. Sign me up! * **Wobbly Life** (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X) – Also arriving September 18th. From what I gather, this looks like a physics-based open-world sandbox game. Think Fall Guys meets Grand Theft Auto, but with squishy characters and less actual crime (I hope). Could be a proper laugh with mates, or an absolute chaotic mess – either way, it’s got my attention for a bit of experimental fun. * **Visions of Mana** (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X) – Dropping September 25th. Mana fans rejoice! The series has a long and storied history, and a brand-new entry is always cause for a bit of excitement. I’m genuinely curious to see what Square Enix has cooked up for this one. Let's hope it's a return to form and not another spell that fizzles. * **Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light** (Cloud, Console, PC) – Gliding in on September 30th. A classic! This isometric co-op action-adventure was a blast back in the day. It’s a nice little nostalgic gem for those who enjoyed a different take on the Tomb Raider formula. Proper good fun, that one. * And then there's **Peppa Pig: World Adventures** (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X) on September 25th. Look, I’m not saying I *will* play it, but I’m also not *not* saying I will. Sometimes, you just need a bit of wholesome, low-stakes adventuring, don't you? Even digital wizards need a break from slaying dragons. Maybe it's a secret rogue-lite, you never know!
Overall, Game Pass continues to be that overflowing magical satchel of games, always offering something for everyone. This second September wave, while undeniably headlined by the glorious return of Hades, also throws in some interesting indies, a big-name shooter, and even a title for the younger (or just incredibly whimsical) gamers among us. It's a testament to the service’s continued value, even when it sometimes feels like they’re just chucking every scroll and potion they can find into the mix.
Oh, and speaking of headliners, the whispers around the digital campfire still mention a little ol' game named **Hollow Knight: Silksong** leading the charge for the *entire* month. If that one actually materialises, then this whole list suddenly looks even more impressive. But then again, Silksong is basically the Bigfoot of gaming – we've heard tales, seen blurry images, but *actually* seeing it with our own eyes? Now that would be a magical event, wouldn't it?
So, what's got your wand tingling this month, eh? Another trip to the Underworld, or perhaps a wobbly adventure with Peppa? The choices are as chaotic and exciting as a teleportation spell gone slightly awry.
Tags: Xbox Game Pass, Hades, Call of Duty, Gaming News, Indie Games
Original article: Polygon