PS5 Gets Game Pass Day 1 Title... in 2026?!

What’s Happening A brand-new Game Pass title, ‘Death Howl,’ has just launched, offering subscribers a unique blend of Soulslike challenge and deckbuilding strategy. Published by 11 bit Studios, this emotional game is available right now for Xbox and PC players. However, PlayStation 5 owners eager to dive into ‘Death Howl’ will face a significant wait. The game, initially a Day 1 Game Pass release, is slated to arrive on PS5 in February 2026, nearly two years after its initial launch. ## Why This Matters This staggered release highlights the growing trend of timed exclusivity deals, even for games that eventually cross platforms. It means Xbox Game Pass subscribers get a significant head start on experiencing unique titles like ‘Death Howl.’ For PS5 players, it creates a frustrating delay, forcing them to either wait or consider other platforms if they want to play a highly anticipated game sooner. This can impact community engagement and spoil potential surprises from the unique gameplay twist. - Xbox Game Pass gains an exclusive early access window, adding value to the subscription.

• PS5 players face a nearly two-year delay for a potentially acclaimed title.
• The staggered release can split player communities and dilute initial hype for the PS5 version. ## The Bottom Line While ‘Death Howl’ looks like an intriguing addition to the Soulslike genre, its delayed PS5 release is a stark reminder of platform competition. Are these long waits becoming the new normal for multi-platform releases?