In a significant addition to the Xbox Game Pass roster, the platform welcomes “Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night” on this Valentine’s Day. Developed by Tokyo-based studio ArtPlay, the game brings a thrilling metroidvania experience to subscribers, reminiscent of the iconic Castlevania series. With its arrival, February’s gaming line up for Xbox Game Pass expands to six titles, promising diverse entertainment for players.
Originally released for PC and consoles in mid-2019, “Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night” quickly garnered acclaim for its immersive gameplay and rich content. The game’s ties to Castlevania go beyond mere inspiration, as ArtPlay boasts the involvement of Koji Igarashi, a stalwart producer of Konami’s famed franchise. Consequently, “Bloodstained” is hailed as a spiritual successor to Castlevania, amplifying its allure among fans of the genre.
This isn’t the first rendezvous between “Bloodstained” and Xbox Game Pass. The game made its debut on the subscription service back in September 2019, captivating players for nearly 18 months before bidding adieu in March 2021. With its return, subscribers can once again traverse its intricately designed worlds and unravel its compelling narrative. Assuming licensing agreements mirror past terms, players can anticipate enjoying “Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night” on Xbox Game Pass until at least the latter half of 2025.
Earning widespread acclaim from both gamers and critics alike, “Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night” stands tall with commendable Metacritic scores and glowing user reviews on Steam. Its Metascore hovers between 83 and 84 across various platforms, while Steam users have collectively bestowed upon it a coveted “Very Positive” rating, based on over 26,000 reviews. Praised for its engaging gameplay mechanics, lush visuals, and diverse enemy encounters, the game promises hours of immersive entertainment for players of all stripes.
The game’s return to Xbox Game Pass coincides with a tempting offer for PC gamers. Steam users can currently acquire “Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night” at a discounted price of $9.99, marking a 75% reduction from its standard fare. This promotion extends to the game’s DLC, the “Iga’s Back” bundle, which is also available at a slashed price until February 15. Xbox players aren’t left out either, with the DLC enjoying a 50% discount on the Xbox Store until February 26, priced at $4.99.
With its stellar reception and enticing discounts, “Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night” cements its position as a must-play title on Xbox Game Pass. As the platform continues to evolve, subscribers can look forward to the addition of three more titles before the month’s end: “A Little To The Left,” “PlateUp,” and “Return to Grace.” With each new addition, Xbox Game Pass reaffirms its commitment to delivering diverse gaming experiences to its ever-expanding audience.
As gaming enthusiasts eagerly embrace “Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night” on Xbox Game Pass, the platform sets a precedent for curated content that resonates with players worldwide. With future updates and additions on the horizon, the subscription service remains a beacon of innovation and inclusivity in the gaming landscape, catering to the diverse tastes and preferences of its discerning audience.
