Xbox Games With Gold for May: 3 free games are now available

It’s the second half of the month, which means new free games are available for Xbox Live Gold and Game Pass Ultimate subscribers. A trio of freebies are available as part of the May Gold Game Lineup: Yoku’s Island Express, Viva Pinata: Party Animals, and The Inner World: The Last Wind Monk.

If you’re a fan of metroidvanias and pinball (who isn’t?), Yoku’s Island Express it will be a delight. Released in 2018, Yoku’s Island Express beautifully marries the mechanics of pinball with the side-scrolling adventures of metroidvanias. You play as a beetle who arrives on a relaxing tropical island to become the new messenger. Unfortunately for Yoku, things don’t go as planned and he has to save the day. The cleverly designed world is filled with platform tests, as well as pinball boards that Yoku uses to jump and progress. It’s an enchanting adventure with colorful visuals and a pleasant atmosphere. It earned a 9/10 in our review of Yoku’s Island Express is available to claim throughout the month of May.

The Inner World: The Last Wind Monk is a point-and-click adventure set in Asposia, a world led by the “flute nose dynasty”. Unsurprisingly, it’s a quirky game full of eccentric characters. The Last Wind Monk was praised for its humorous writing, interesting characters, and hand-drawn art. If you’re looking for a narrative-focused game with some light puzzles, The Inner World: The Last Wind Monk is available until June 15th.

Viva Pinata: Party Animals is a Mario Party style game that was originally released for Xbox 360. Designed like a game show, you compete against friends in quick mini-games to see who can win the most candy. It’s a solid multiplayer game to play alongside family and friends. Meanwhile, Hydro Thunder Hurricane was an Xbox Live Arcade boat racing game that was available to claim in the first half of the month. It aims to be chaotic rather than realistic as it features crazy power-ups and obstacles.