XEP 303: The AAA Model Is Cracking | Our Favorite Games of 2025 & What We’re Excited for in 2026

In this episode of Xbox Expansion Pass, we reflect on our favorite games of 2025 and what they reveal about where the industry is headed in 2026. We break down why smaller and mid-budget games like Arc Raiders, Avowed, Grounded 2, and South of Midnight connected so strongly, while the traditional AAA model continues to strain under rising budgets, longer development cycles, and higher price points. We also discuss the growing frustration around hardware costs, $80 games, and why many players simply want games that “just work.” Plus, we share our most anticipated games of 2026—including Gears of War: E-Day, Fable, Wolverine, and GTA 6—and answer community questions about emotional storytelling, digital libraries, and the future of gaming ecosystems. Thoughtful discussion, no console-war noise. Support XEP: https://www.patreon.com/XboxExpansionPass XEP Merch: https://wren-works.myshopify.com/collections/xbox-expansion-pass-merch Blue Sky: @InsipidGhost  Contact: [email protected] Blue Sky: @CaptLogun  Keelhauled: A Sea of Thieves Podcast Please consider leaving a review on iTunes or Spotify. It is the best way to support the show. Thank you!