Xbox Free Play Days is back with a double feature this weekend, offering Catan – Console Edition and Deadside for free from Thursday, May 7 through Sunday, May 10. The promotion is available to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Standard (formerly Console), and Core (formerly Xbox Live Gold) members, giving players a few days to dive in without paying upfront.
According to an announcement on Xbox Wire, this weekend’s lineup blends strategy and survival, appealing to both casual and hardcore players. It’s a smart pairing—Catan delivers a laid-back, competitive board game experience, while Deadside throws players into a gritty open-world survival shooter.
What You Can Play During Xbox Free Play Days
Catan – Console Edition
This digital version of the classic board game lets players build settlements, trade resources, and outmaneuver opponents either locally or online. It supports AI matches and multiplayer sessions, making it a great pick for quick sessions or longer strategy nights. The game is optimized for Xbox Series X|S and supports Smart Delivery.
Deadside
For something more intense, Deadside offers a large-scale open-world survival experience. Players can choose between PvP combat or cooperative PvE gameplay while scavenging for gear, crafting equipment, and building bases. A recent 1.8 update added new weapons, locations, and a revamped crafting system, making this an ideal time to jump in.
How to Download
Getting started is simple:
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Visit the game pages on Xbox.com or the Microsoft Store while logged in
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Install directly if you have an eligible Game Pass membership
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On console, navigate to the Subscriptions tab in the Xbox Store and find the Free Play Days collection
Limited-Time Discounts
If you enjoy either title, you can purchase them at a discount during the event:
Any progress you make—including achievements and Gamerscore—will carry over if you decide to buy the full game.
This weekend’s Free Play Days is another solid example of how Microsoft continues to add value to Xbox Game Pass, offering players a risk-free way to discover new games across genres. With both a casual strategy favorite and a deep survival shooter available, there’s something worth checking out before the promotion ends on Sunday.
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