Three new Xbox Game Pass games to enjoy this weekend (April 18-20)

      **PHL Collective**

      Last week featured significant day-one releases for Game Pass, but next week might be even better with Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 arriving on the service. However, many other titles will also be added to the catalog, making this an ideal opportunity to try some smaller, lesser-known games. Instead of overwhelming you with a lengthy RPG that you won’t complete before Expedition, we’ll highlight several shorter titles that are perfect for a weekend of enjoyment. Why not step outside your comfort zone this weekend with one of these games?

      **SpongeBob SquarePants: The Patrick Star Game**

      Indeed, Patrick Star is the star of his very own game. The Patrick Star Game leans more toward a sandbox experience compared to other SpongeBob platformers. Players can freely explore (and wreak havoc in) Bikini Bottom in a myriad of zany and cartoonish ways. Fans will discover countless references and Easter eggs from the show, from well-known places like The Krusty Krab to lesser-known spots like Glove World. All the major characters appear, presenting various challenges and tasks that help you unlock numerous costumes. It’s a wonderfully chaotic game that embraces its messiness.

      The Patrick Star Game is currently available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Switch, and PC.

      **Crime Scene Cleaner**

      We all enjoy Powerwash Simulator, but what if it had a darker twist? In Crime Scene Cleaner, you step into the shoes of a crime scene technician for a local mob, tasked with cleaning up their messes for cash. Rather than simply washing dirt away, you're scrubbing up blood, disposing of bodies, and handling unpleasant odors. However, this isn't a calming experience; as the police close in, you must tidy up before time runs out to avoid capture. As you earn more money from completing jobs—possibly pocketing some valuables along the way—you can upgrade your cleaning supplies for future tasks.

      Crime Scene Cleaner is now available on Xbox Series X/S and PC.

      **Tempopo**

      Lastly, we have an enchanting and distinctive puzzle title likely to appeal to any fan of the genre. Each level resembles a Captain Toad diorama where you must find a way to guide the Tempopo to safety. The gameplay is rhythm-based, and you take on the role of a conductor directing the movements and actions of your creatures. The trailer illustrates how intricate the gameplay can become as you manage multiple Tempopo to push blocks, attack enemies, and create paths, all simultaneously. With its visual style, seasonal themes, and an engaging soundtrack, this game promises to be truly special.

      Tempopo is currently available on Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Switch, and PC.

      **Jesse Lennox** has been writing for Digital Trends for over four years and shows no signs of stopping. He covers a wide range of topics…

      **3 New PlayStation Plus Games to Play This Weekend (March 21-23)**

      After being treated to some major titles arriving on PlayStation Plus Essential at the start of the month, such as Dragon Age: The Veilguard, the second lineup of new games provides an opportunity to discover some hidden gems that may have been overlooked at launch. In all honesty, nearly every game coming to Extra and Premium this month is worth experiencing, encompassing sports titles, Metroidvanias, and indie games. However, knowing that gaming time is always limited, we made some tough selections to present you with the three best new games on PlayStation Plus for this weekend.

      **Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown**

      We labeled Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown an early contender for game of the year in 2024, and we stand by that. This game reinterprets the classic action platformer as a Metroidvania, making us wonder why this wasn’t done sooner. The ability progression is beautifully balanced, featuring numerous puzzle-platforming challenges that test both critical thinking and dexterity. The combat and movement mechanics are tight and satisfying, making the act of navigating the intricate map enjoyable. It serves as a fantastic entry point for newcomers to the genre while also providing a deep and challenging experience for veterans seeking to uncover every secret.

      Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown is available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Switch, and PC.

      **Bang-On Balls: Chronicles**

      While the title Bang-On Balls: Chronicles may not initially instill confidence in this indie hit, hear us out. You control a ball in a 3D open-world action platformer that introduces new mechanics with each level. Loosely based on historical sites, each area is an open hub where you can bounce, battle, and explore with your fully customizable ball character. It’s a contemporary revival of the classic collect-a-thon genre without the downsides. The game offers plenty of variety and content for solo play but is even better when played in 4-player online