Xbox drops 8 free downloads you can claim now, no Game Pass needed

Unsure of what to play next?

If you answered ‘yes’ to that question and you’re an Xbox user, you’ve come to the right place.

The Xbox Store has recently welcomed eight new free demos which means that there’s plenty to keep you busy in the ‘try before you buy’ department.

There’s a little bit of something for everyone, so I’ll dive straight in.

Dynasty Warriors: Origins is up first, a must-play for action RPG fans.

In this title, you’ll face off solo against a whopping, prepare yourselves, 1,000 enemies.

Specifically, the demo will allow you to experience the Battle of Sishui Gate, with it being noted that difficulty can indeed be adjusted.

If platformers are more your thing, then Dog Man: Mission Impawsible could be for you.

Based on the beloved book series of the same name, this title will see you switch between Dog Man and his ‘Supa Buddies’ as you make use of Rocket Boots, Retractable Claws, and other handy gadgets to take down a new big bad.

Take a look at Dynasty Warriors: Origins in action below.

This next one is a game I highly recommend, PowerWash Simulator.

Listen, it’s not my usual cup of tea either but there’s a reason why this rather simple game has captured the attention of the world.

It’s so relaxing. Whether you’re power washing a car or Shrek’s swamp, it’s satisfyingly fun.

For an RPG with a family-friendly vibe, there’s Bloomtown: A Different Story.

“Bloomtown: A Different Story is a narrative JRPG mixing turn-based combat, monster taming and social RPG set in a seemingly pleasant 1960s Americana world,” the synopsis reads.

You’ll play as Emily and her younger brother Chester who decide to delve into the mysterious disappearances of several children while on summer vacation at their grandpa’s house.

I have to say, I’ve not heard of this one before but it’s captured my attention and I’ll be giving this demo a whirl.

Staying in the RPG realm, we also have The Thaumaturge.

The game centres around Wiktor Szulski, a magician of sorts, who’s drawn back to Warsaw by unsettling family matters surrounding a mystical inheritance.

If you’re looking to enjoy the return of an absolute classic, I’d direct your attention to the demo for Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster.

In our review of this one, we said, “With the visual and gameplay improvements, there’s more than enough to encourage veteran fans to reinvest in this remaster while making those new feel welcome.”

I’ve yet to mention a shooter, but worry not. That’s up next thanks to the demo of Whacking Hell!.

This is “frantic 2D top-down shooter with roguelite elements”.

The gates of Hell have opened and it’s up to you to “whack all the monsters before they whack you”.

Rounding us out is the cosy RPG My Time at Sandrock which will see you set up life in a small post-apocalyptic town.

As with many cosy titles, you’ll slowly work to build up the town, embed yourself in the community, whilst also having to deal with the occasional encroaching monster.