Replaced is an indie cyberpunk platformer launching day one on Xbox Game Pass on March 12, 2026, available for both Xbox Series X|S and PC.
You can jump in from day one without buying a separate copy, making it instantly accessible to millions of Game Pass subscribers.
Is Replaced on Xbox Game Pass?
Early previews from major outlets have been overwhelmingly positive, praising the game’s:
- unique blend of retro-futuristic visuals
- fast-paced action
- emotional storytelling
The buzz suggests Replaced could quickly become one of the biggest indie surprises on Game Pass this year, drawing attention from both dedicated gamers and the wider Game Pass audience.
What Do Previews Say?
Hands-on coverage – including an IGN preview, a Eurogamer hands-on, and GamesRadar impressions – paints Replaced as more than just a 2.5D cinematic platformer.
Critics highlight the game’s unexpected depth, noting that it blends combat, storytelling, and exploration in ways that surprise even seasoned players.
The standout elements noted in previews include:
- side quests that reward exploration and curiosity
- emotional storytelling, with character moments that feel grounded and moving
- unexpected minigames, including an arcade minigame where you restore a broken machine
- layered world-building, offering a cyberpunk city that feels alive
One preview described the experience as “a retro-futuristic world with heart,” while another praised its genre-blending mechanics, combining platforming, combat, and puzzles seamlessly.
Core Gameplay Pillars
Based on previews, Replaced is built around five gameplay pillars:
- Tight, responsive combat, inspired by action classics.
- Cinematic platforming, with vertical movement, wall-runs, and acrobatic sequences.
- Puzzle-solving elements, integrated naturally into environments and side objectives.
- Narrative-driven gameplay, delivering story beats between action sequences.
- Cyberpunk tone, supported by neon-drenched cityscapes and a synth-heavy soundtrack.
Some preview comparisons include:
- Ninja Gaiden for combat precision
- Inside for cinematic platforming
- LucasArts-style storytelling for clever, layered narrative touches
However, critics emphasize that Replaced consistently subverts expectations, keeping familiar elements fresh and surprising.
Why It Matters?
Replaced launches day one on Xbox Game Pass for Xbox Series X|S and PC, a move that previews suggest could maximize community growth. Benefits of the Game Pass launch include:
- immediate access for a broad player base
- lower barrier to entry, encouraging more players to try it
- increased exposure, helping the game reach new audiences quickly
By combining a strong indie identity with Game Pass accessibility, Replaced has the potential to become one of 2026’s breakout indie hits.