Xbox has started to release games on its popular Game Pass subscription service without announcing them, and it’s starting to feel like an advent calendar. Serious Sam 4 was previously only available on the PC and Stadia, but it got a surprise launch on the Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5 today, as well as a surprise inclusion on Game Pass.
Originally spotted by VG247, Serious Sam 4 is a first person shooter in which you defend earth from an army of extra-terrestrial invaders. In addition to a single-player campaign, the alien shooter also includes a co-op mode for up to four players.
The game wasn’t a hit when it first launched on PC, but the developers have had a year to optimize it for the latest generation of consoles. Besides, there’s no better time to try a game than when it’s free. However, interestingly, it’s not available for players who own an Xbox One (or, for that matter, a PS4). If you’re really interested in trying Serious Sam 4, you can still buy the game on PC.
Just last week, Xbox added Townscaper and Generation Zero to the subscription service unannounced. I find it a little odd for a major platform holder to attempt zero marketing for free games, but the surprise additions definitely add a nice feeling of serendipity for players who are subbed to Game Pass.
However, we’re still in the midst of a console shortage that Microsoft says will continue into 2022. Since Serious Sam 4 isn’t available on the Xbox One, the game is currently being review bombed by players who weren’t lucky enough to secure and Xbox Series X/S. Calm down, y’all. I’m sure that Microsoft isn’t personally prejudiced against players who couldn’t beat the scalpers. We’re a week into December, and you’ve already got Stardew Valley, Final Fantasy XIII-2, and Warhammer 40K: Battlesector. You’re getting Halo: Infinite tomorrow. There’s really no need to get worked up over an indie Doom that you probably won’t have strong feelings about by the time that you start downloading Halo.
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For those lucky enough to have an Xbox Series X/S and a Game Pass subscription, I hope the game tides you over until Halo’s single-player campaign drops tomorrow.