Game Pass Day One Inclusion Overview
Microsoft and publisher Curve Games have officially announced that Dumpster Gang will be a Day One launch title on PC Game Pass starting December 3, 2026.
For millions of Game Pass members, this means you can download and play the full cooperative raccoon sandbox without paying the $19.99 purchase price. The game's inclusion in Game Pass guarantees an enormous, highly active player pool on launch day, ensuring fast matchmaking and active public lobbies for 4-player co-op heists.
Here is the complete guide to accessing the game through your subscription, pre-loading instructions, Cloud Gaming features, and member-exclusive cosmetic rewards.
Subscription Tier Breakdown
Depending on your active Microsoft subscription level, here is how and when you can access Dumpster Gang:
1. PC Game Pass ($11.99/mo)
- Launch Availability: December 3, 2026.
- Platform: Windows 10 & 11 PCs via the Xbox App.
- Includes: Full base game, online multiplayer, crossplay with Steam, and Xbox achievement integration (1,000 Gamerscore).
2. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate ($19.99/mo)
- Launch Availability: December 3, 2026 on PC & Cloud; March 2027 on Xbox Series X|S.
- Includes: PC download, Xbox Cloud Gaming streaming, and future console entitlement via Xbox Smart Delivery.
- Perk: Access to the exclusive Game Pass Member Perk Bundle.
3. Xbox Game Pass Standard (Console Only)
- Availability: March 2027 (Console launch window).
- Note: Standard console members will gain access when the Xbox Series X|S edition releases in March 2027.
| Game Pass Tier | PC Access Date | Console Access Date | Cloud Gaming | Crossplay with Steam |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PC Game Pass | Dec 3, 2026 | N/A | No (Download only) | Yes (Lobby Codes) |
| Game Pass Ultimate | Dec 3, 2026 | March 2027 | Yes (Included) | Yes (All Platforms) |
| Game Pass Standard | N/A | March 2027 | No | N/A |
| Game Pass Core | N/A (Online only) | N/A | No | N/A |
How to Pre-Load on the Xbox PC App
Ensure your raccoon is ready to jump into dumpsters the second servers unlock by pre-loading:
- Open the Xbox App on your Windows 10 or 11 PC.
- Sign in with your active Game Pass account.
- In the search bar, type
Dumpster Gang. - On the game store page, click the green Pre-Install button.
- The app will download the core 12 GB installation archive.
- On December 3, 2026 at 17:00 UTC, a lightweight 100 MB decryption patch will install, making the game playable immediately.
Xbox Cloud Gaming Features
For players without a dedicated gaming PC or those on the move, Dumpster Gang will support Xbox Cloud Gaming (xCloud) at launch for Game Pass Ultimate subscribers:
- Supported Devices: Android smartphones, iPhones/iPads (via Safari Web App), Smart TVs, and lightweight Chromebooks.
- Control Schemes: Full wireless controller support (Xbox Wireless Controller, DualShock/DualSense, Bluetooth gamepads) and custom mobile touch controls designed specifically for raccoon climbing and item throwing.
- Cloud Saves: Progress synchronizes seamlessly between PC Game Pass downloads and Cloud Gaming sessions.
Member Perks: The Lumberjack Raccoon Bundle
Active Game Pass subscribers can claim an exclusive cosmetic bundle from the Game Pass Perks gallery during the launch window:
- The Buffalo Plaid Trapper Hat: A stylish red-and-black wool trapper hat that provides cold-weather visual effects and +10% stamina regeneration in outdoor yard maps.
- The Denim Scavenger Overalls: Cosmetic raccoon body skin featuring rugged denim overalls with deep tool pockets.
- The "Game Pass Green" Campfire Glow: A custom dye for your hideout campfire that turns the flame emerald green.
Pro Tip
If your squad consists of mixed PC Game Pass and Steam players, the Game Pass player should host the lobby. Generating a 6-digit room code in the Xbox build allows Steam players to join directly without needing to sign into an external Microsoft account.
Related Guides & Deep Dives
Coordinate your squad setup with our related system guides:
- Check global launch times in the Release Date & Roadmap Guide.
- Verify hardware compatibility in PC Requirements & Steam Deck Guide.
- Connect cross-platform squads in the Co-Op Multiplayer & Crossplay Guide.
- Master input layouts with the Controls & Keybinds Guide.
Official Sources & Verified Evidence
- Dumpster Gang Official Steam Store — verified release dates, system requirements, and developer announcements.
- Dumpster Gang Demo on Steam — hands-on mechanics, playable tutorial, and level walkthough validation.
- Curve Games Publishing Announcement — platform rollout schedules and Game Pass day-one confirmation.




