Xbox 'Games with Gold' for April: 'Hitman: Absolution' and 'Deadlight'

With April 1 fast approaching, Microsoft’s Major Nelson has revealed the next two games in the “Games with Gold” program: Hitman: Absolution and Deadlight.

The two games stay true to the recent Microsoft formula: an Xbox 360 title paired with an Xbox Live Arcade Game.

Hitman: Absolution is a 2012 action title from Square Enix that received somewhat average reviews, hovering between the 7-8 out of 10 range with most game critics. The game wasn’t a AAA blockbuster, but Xbox 360 fans should find comfort in the fact that the title isn’t as old as previous entries in the Games with Gold program.

Deadlight hit the Xbox 360 back in summer 2012 as a side-scrolling platformer with a survival horror twist. The game received mediocre reviews from critics, pulling a 68 out of 100 on Metacritic.

Microsoft’s Games with Gold perk has been under fire almost every month its been around, thanks to serious competition from Sony’s PlayStation Plus service. Microsoft’s program has earned a poor reputation among some gamers for the titles it’s given away, which have traditionally been more dated than Sony’s freebies.

There is a difference in how the two programs work, though; while Sony’s PlayStation Plus offers newer and more popular games, Plus subscribers don’t own the games. Should a gamer no longer subscribe to Plus, he or she would lose access to any free downloads. That differs from Microsoft’s competing service, which allows you to keep your game even if you no longer subscribe to Xbox Live.

It may not bring solace to Xbox gamers who just want to play more recent games, but it’s something to keep in mind.

You’ll be able to nab Hitman between April 1 and 15, and Deadlight between April 16 and 30.

What do you think about Microsoft’s Games with Gold offerings for April? Drop us a line below with your thoughts.