The Last Check – Xbox Game Pass Release & PC Modding Guide

For survival fans, the value proposition is hard to beat: paying a monthly subscription to access a hardcore title like Quarantine Zone: The Last Check is a steal compared to the full retail price. However, playing on the Microsoft ecosystem often comes with a hidden cost—strict file restrictions. While standard PC users (Steam/Epic) enjoy easy access to mods and trainers, Game Pass users often find themselves locked into the “vanilla” difficulty experience.

If you are weighing your options between subscribing or buying the standalone version, this guide covers the release details and explains the key differences in modding support across platforms.

Release Information & Launch Details

Is Quarantine Zone Coming to Xbox Game Pass?

Yes. It has been officially confirmed that Quarantine Zone: The Last Check will be available on PC Game Pass and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate on day one of its 1.0 release. This allows subscribers to download the full game via the Xbox App on Windows 10/11 without purchasing the standalone title. Currently, the inclusion is specific to the PC and Xbox Series X/S console libraries.

Game Pass Release Date and Unlock Times

The game will unlock globally for Game Pass subscribers on January 15, 2026. Unlike Steam, which often unlocks based on Valve’s refresh time, Microsoft Store releases typically roll out at midnight local time or a fixed global UTC time.

• New York (EST): 12:00 AM, Jan 15
• London (GMT): 5:00 AM, Jan 15
• Los Angeles (PST): 9:00 PM, Jan 14

Modding Reality: Game Pass vs. Steam

The File Encryption Barrier

This is the most common question we get: “Can I use mods on the Game Pass version?” The short answer is: It is difficult. Microsoft uses a Universal Windows Platform (UWP) wrapper that encrypts game files and locks the installation folder. This prevents users from easily accessing the `.exe` file or modifying memory values, which blocks most third-party trainers and mods from functioning correctly.

Can You Transfer Saves from Game Pass to Steam?

Many players start on Game Pass to “demo” the game and later buy it on Steam for mod support. The Bad News: Game Pass saves are not natively compatible with Steam. Microsoft wraps save files in a generic container format located deep in your `AppData` folder.

The Workaround: You can perform a manual transfer by locating the `.wgs` files, but this process is error-prone. A smarter alternative is using the XMOD Trainer on your new Steam copy to instantly restore your previous level, money, and inventory, effectively “simulating” a save transfer without the headache of hex editing.

System Requirements & Troubleshooting

PC System Requirements

Ensure your rig is ready. The Game Pass version can sometimes be slightly more CPU-intensive due to the background Xbox services running.

Fixing Common Game Pass Installation Errors

The Xbox App on PC can be temperamental. If Quarantine Zone refuses to download or launch, try these proven fixes before giving up:

• Error 0x80073D26: This usually relates to the Gaming Services dependency. Open PowerShell as Admin and reset the service.
• Stuck on “Preparing”: Check that your Windows Time Zone is set to automatic. A time mismatch often blocks the encrypted download handshake.
• Modding Tab Greyed Out: Some Game Pass titles allow an “Enable Mods” button in the app. If this is missing for Quarantine Zone, it confirms the folder is locked, requiring an external memory trainer to modify gameplay.

Core Gameplay & Mechanics

The Checkpoint Loop: What Makes This Game Unique?

Unlike traditional run-and-gun zombie shooters, Quarantine Zone introduces a unique “Checkpoint Simulator” mechanic inspired by games like Papers, Please. You aren’t just surviving; you are managing a border crossing. Players must screen refugees for infection using high-tech tools like UV scanners and thermometers. One wrong decision—letting an infected civilian into your safe zone—can trigger a “Game Over” cascade as the infection spreads from the inside.

Why Play on Game Pass?

For many, Game Pass is the perfect way to “demo” Quarantine Zone. It is an unforgiving game with permadeath mechanics that aren’t for everyone. Playing via subscription removes the buyer’s remorse if you find the difficulty curve too steep. However, if you love the atmosphere but hate losing progress, transitioning to a mod-friendly platform later is a common path for dedicated fans.

Essential Cheats Breakdown: Money, Health & Speed

For players on Steam or Epic, the XMODHUB trainer offers a suite of tools to balance the game’s brutal difficulty. These mods are specifically designed to respect your time while letting you enjoy the story.