Your choice: peddle paperbacks or pilot starships
April is bustling with fresh game releases, from the recently launched People of Note to the highly anticipated Pragmata. However, sometimes the most rewarding gaming experience on a weekend comes from diving back into a beloved classic, and Xbox Game Pass offers an abundance of such titles. This week’s suggestions include your next comforting escape, a highly underrated twin-stick shooter, and one of the finest (and most charming) Zelda-inspired games available.
1
Tiny Bookshop
Having previously worked as a bookseller, I was instantly captivated by Tiny Bookshop upon its release for Nintendo Switch and Windows PC last summer. It provided a delightful, serene escape from a real-world dilemma I knew intimately. Now, it arrives on Xbox Game Pass (and PlayStation 5) on April 10, poised to become a surprise hit on the platform. In Tiny Bookshop, players relocate to a charming coastal town to establish their business. You’ll make friends with the townsfolk, sell them books, acquire new decorations, and embrace a tranquil lifestyle. Plus, you get to adopt a dog! That detail alone elevates it to a perfect 10/10. —Austin Manchester
2
Minishoot’ Adventures
Occasionally, a game requires a few years to gain the recognition it truly merits. Such is the journey of Minishoot’ Adventures. This twin-stick shooter, infused with top-down Zelda elements, first launched on PC in 2024, where it quietly garnered praise from dedicated players. I played it at the time and was utterly enchanted by this skillfully crafted space shooter, which expertly blends bullet-hell intensity with expansive exploration and countless hidden secrets. With its console debut last month, I’ve noticed many more gamers discovering this lovable indie treasure. You could be among them if you decide to give it a try this weekend. —Giovanni Colantonio
3
Tunic
Why settle for just one Zeldalike experience this weekend? Tunic openly displays its inspirations from the Zelda series. You navigate intricate dungeons as an endearing orange fox, solving intricate puzzles and employing dodge-rolls in engaging combat encounters. A significant part of Tunic‘s charm (and occasional challenge) lies in its retro approach. You’ll uncover pages of an in-game manual throughout your adventure, which gradually explain the game’s mechanics. The twist? They’re written in a fictional language, leaving you to decipher their meaning. However, if you find yourself stuck, remember that guides are always available. No need for shame! —AM