- Way of the Hunter 2 Game Pass availability has not been officially confirmed as of October 2026
- The game entered Steam Early Access on March 26, 2026 for PC
- PS5 and Xbox Series X|S versions launched on September 29, 2026
- Check the official site and Xbox Store for the latest subscription news
- PC players can hunt right now on Steam
Is Way of the Hunter 2 on Game Pass?
As of October 2026, neither Nine Rocks Games nor publisher THQ Nordic has announced that Way of the Hunter 2 is joining Xbox Game Pass. The game reached its console milestone on September 29, 2026, when PS5 and Xbox Series X|S versions released alongside the game's continued development toward 1.0, but a subscription-service launch is a separate decision that publishers typically announce close to availability.
This does not mean Game Pass is off the table long term. THQ Nordic titles have appeared on subscription services in the past, and Way of the Hunter 2's live development roadmap with planned reserves, weapons, and dog-training expansions makes it a candidate for future subscription placement. Treat any specific "coming to Game Pass" claim from unofficial sources as unverified.
Some fan sites and videos claim Way of the Hunter 2 is "free on Game Pass." No official source confirms this. Only trust announcements from THQ Nordic, Nine Rocks Games, or the official Xbox channels.
The table below summarizes what is verified versus unverified:
| Item | Status | Source |
|---|---|---|
| PC (Steam Early Access) | Available since March 26, 2026 | Official Steam page |
| PS5 version | Released September 29, 2026 | Official site |
| Xbox Series X | S version | Released September 29, 2026 |
| Xbox Game Pass | Not confirmed | No official announcement |
| Free-to-play codes / redeem system | Not applicable | Game has no codes system |
How to Play Way of the Hunter 2 Right Now
If you want to hunt in New Laurentia or Kilimaya Reserve today, direct purchase is the confirmed route. The PC version has been playable since Early Access began, and console versions are now available following the September 29, 2026 launch.
PC via Steam
- Early Access since March 26, 2026
- 1,500+ reviews, ~73% positive
- Portuguese and Spanish localization available
PS5
- Released September 29, 2026
- Full hunting simulation on console
- Supports the two launch reserves
Xbox Series X|S
- Released September 29, 2026
- Purchase through Xbox Store
- Game Pass status still unconfirmed
Watch the official Steam page and THQ Nordic's publisher sales. Hunting sims from THQ Nordic frequently receive launch-window discounts on consoles after release, which can beat waiting for a subscription launch.
Follow these steps to get started regardless of platform:
Choose Your Platform
Pick Steam for the longest-supported version with Early Access history, or PS5 / Xbox Series X|S for the console build released September 29, 2026.
Purchase Through Official Channels
Buy only from the official Steam page, PlayStation Store, or Xbox Store to avoid region or key issues.
Verify Game Pass Status Before Buying
Check the Xbox Store listing directly. If the game appears with a Game Pass badge, subscription access has been added; otherwise it requires purchase.
Start Your First Hunt
Begin in New Laurentia, use binoculars from elevated viewpoints, follow fresh tracks, and keep the wind in your favor.
What You Get Without Game Pass: Core Content
Whether purchased on Steam or consoles, the base package includes the full hunting simulation loop that Nine Rocks Games has built through Early Access. Here is what verified content looks like at launch:
| Feature | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Reserves | New Laurentia, Kilimaya Reserve | More regions planned via roadmap |
| Firearms | 20+ rifles, shotguns | Bows and crossbows also available |
| Gear | Thermal optics, night vision, suppressors, calls | Supports stealth loadouts |
| Systems | Shot Review, Taxidermy, Herd Management | Core progression pillars |
| Companion | Hunting dog with tracking and bonding | Advanced training planned |
| Multiplayer | Two-player co-op | Expanding through roadmap |
Steam shows 1,500+ total reviews with roughly 73% positive, reflecting a game still in active development toward 1.0. Expect systems like multiplayer and dog training to keep expanding.
Because the roadmap keeps adding reserves, trophy variations (non-typical, superior, mythical), and dog training, players who buy now follow that growth from the start rather than jumping into an already-fixed ecosystem later.
Checklist: Before You Commit to Buying
Use this checklist to decide whether to buy now or wait for a possible Game Pass announcement:
Purchase Decision Checklist:
- Confirm Game Pass status on the official Xbox Store listing
- Check the official site and Discord for subscription announcements
- Compare current Steam or console pricing against your budget
- Review the development roadmap for upcoming content you want
- Decide if Early Access-style evolution matters to you
FAQ
Q: Is Way of the Hunter 2 available on Xbox Game Pass?
As of October 2026, there is no official announcement confirming Way of the Hunter 2 on Game Pass. The Xbox Series X|S version released on September 29, 2026 as a direct purchase. Monitor the official Xbox Store and THQ Nordic channels for any subscription news.
Q: When did Way of the Hunter 2 release on consoles?
The PS5 and Xbox Series X|S versions launched on September 29, 2026. The PC version entered Steam Early Access earlier, on March 26, 2026.
Q: Does Way of the Hunter 2 have free codes or a redeem system?
No. Way of the Hunter 2 has no codes or redeem system. Any site claiming free Game Pass codes or redemption codes for the game should be treated as unreliable.
Q: Where is the best place to check for future Game Pass news?
The official Way of the Hunter 2 website, the official Discord, and the Xbox Store listing are the most reliable sources. Community hubs like r/WayOfTheHunter often surface announcements quickly, but verify against official channels.