One of the most anticipated gaming releases of 2025, Team Cherry's Hollow Knight: Silksong, has been confirmed as a day-one addition to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. Microsoft's subscription service continues to strengthen its value proposition for gamers seeking diverse gaming options, particularly through its premium Ultimate tier that regularly features new titles immediately upon their release.

Originally conceived as an expansion to the critically acclaimed Hollow Knight, Silksong evolved into a full standalone sequel that has kept fans waiting since its initial announcement in 2019. After several delays and nearly six years of anticipation, enthusiasts of Team Cherry's intricate world-building and challenging gameplay finally received confirmation of the definitive release date: September 4, 2025.

While the game will launch across multiple platforms including Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Switch 2, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members will enjoy the significant benefit of accessing Hollow Knight: Silksong at no additional cost beyond their subscription. Although many dedicated fans will likely purchase the game outright to support the developers and enjoy its reasonable $19.99 price point, the Game Pass availability offers an excellent opportunity for newcomers to experience what makes this franchise so special without financial commitment.

In Hollow Knight: Silksong, players assume the role of Hornet, the former princess of Hallownest from the original game. After being captured and transported to the mysterious new realm of Pharloom, she must navigate through expansive Metroidvania environments while confronting numerous new enemies and formidable bosses using her enhanced movement capabilities and signature needle-based combat. The sequel introduces several innovative mechanics including a crafting system, multiple hub towns, environmental traps, and NPC-driven quests that significantly expand the gameplay experience.

September 2025 Xbox Game Pass Lineup

Xbox Game Pass subscribers can look forward to an impressive selection of titles throughout September and October 2025. Just before Silksong's arrival, the service added Nine Sols, a 2D platformer that has drawn comparisons to Hollow Knight for its challenging gameplay and atmospheric world. The month continues with Deep Rock Galactic: Survivor launching day-one on September 17, while Frostpunk 2—previously available on PC Game Pass since its September 2024 release—comes to Xbox Series X/S on the 18th. October promises even more excitement for Ultimate subscribers with day-one releases including Ninja Gaiden 4, The Outer Worlds 2, and Call of Duty: Black Ops 7.