Denshattack! Director Reflects on Positive Xbox Game Pass Launch Experience

Undercoders Game Director David Jaumandreu recently discussed the studio's experience bringing Denshattack! to Xbox Game Pass as a day-one release. Blending elements reminiscent of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater, SSX, and Jet Set Radio Future, the vibrant train-flipping game arrived in July to stellar review scores. It currently sits in Metacritic's top 15 games of 2026 with a score of 88.

In an interview with AUTOMATON, Jaumandreu explained that the journey to the subscription service began after presenting the game to Microsoft, who liked the project and later invited the studio to join Game Pass. For a small team, Jaumandreu noted that the platform provides a vital opportunity to put the title in front of a massive audience who can then recommend it to others.

Addressing whether a Game Pass agreement entirely removes financial pressure, Jaumandreu clarified that while guaranteed funds lower market risks before launch, they do not eliminate pressure altogether. Developers still face the responsibility of delivering a high-quality product that meets Microsoft's standards, alongside needing to sell a targeted number of copies to fully recoup development costs. Nonetheless, the deal provides a helpful cushion by securing baseline financial support upon release.

Looking ahead, Undercoders aims to remain an independent studio and hopes that additional players will discover Denshattack! during the upcoming Tokyo Game Show.