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Following Microsoft's latest announcement of Game Pass subscription updates, including a cost hike for the top tier to $30 monthly, many subscribers are seeking new ways to get the most from their subscription. For those holding onto their membership or thinking about signing up, here are our latest recommendations.

Our selected games include a beloved Japanese role-playing game, a charming independent journey, and a brilliant puzzle game set to depart from the platform shortly.

Persona 4 Golden

Among the best ways to maximize value from Game Pass is by diving into a extensive, engaging role-playing game — and Persona 4: The Golden Edition matches that bill perfectly. Players step into the role of a high school student who has just moved to the quiet countryside of Inaba. During the day, your objectives involve forming friendships, taking on part-time jobs, and managing studies. At night, you investigate a disturbing string of murders by venturing into unique dungeons themed around your friends' deepest insecurities.

With a memorable group of heroes, tactical turn-based combat, impeccable visuals, and a plot packed with surprises, Persona 4 Golden is regarded as a masterpiece for many reasons. It also boasts a incredibly addictive gameplay loop that will keep you up past bedtime, night after night.

Sopa - Tale of the Stolen Potato

While big releases like Ninja Gaiden IV are a primary attraction for Game Pass, the platform also showcases smaller indie gems. A perfect instance of this is Sopa - Tale of the Stolen Potato. Inspired by Spirited Away, this charming independent game is a fantasy tale steeped in Latin American traditions. You join Miho, who, after helping his grandma make soup, is pulled into a vibrant world populated by potato-stealing frogs and other quirky creatures.

Sopa: Tale of the Stolen Potato unfolds similar to an educational PC game from the 90s, as Miho solves challenges and helps the world's inhabitants by collecting an inventory of items. Even if it's a bit rough around the edges, Sopa: Tale of the Stolen Potato is a heartwarming small experience that openly celebrates its appreciation for South America.

Cocoon: A Puzzle Adventure

Cocoon: A Puzzle Adventure is set to exit the service on Oct. 15, leaving only a few days to play it via subscription — and you absolutely should. Studio the creators designed one of the finest puzzlers of this generation in 2023's Cocoon: A Puzzle Adventure. Its core gameplay element focuses on transitioning between worlds inside other worlds, and often you'll carry those realms, in the shape of vibrant spheres, with you.

Although it doesn't have explicit guidance, everything about Cocoon's challenges is designed in a highly intuitive way, though they will challenge you as well. The year 2023 proved a big period for games, so it's understandable if Cocoon was somewhat overlooked by many players. Let's correct that while we can.