The new year is here, and with it comes the first wave of Xbox Game Pass additions for January 2026. While Microsoft rings in 2026 with a selection of titles spanning horror, action, JRPG classics, and even a Star Wars adventure, this initial drop is shaping up to be a modest offering compared to the service’s typically robust monthly lineups. With several notable titles joining the catalog, subscribers have some worthwhile games to look forward to—even if the overall package feels somewhat lacking.
The Headliners
MIO: Memories in Orbit (January 20)
Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass
Launching day one on Xbox Game Pass, this hand-crafted metroidvania stands out as one of the month’s most intriguing additions. Set in a vast, decaying world where nature and robots have reclaimed civilization, players control Mio, a nimble android navigating labyrinthine environments. The game promises atmospheric exploration, challenging combat against rogue machines, and a rich narrative centered on uncovering lost memories. For fans of exploration-heavy platformers in the vein of Hollow Knight or Ori, this could be a hidden gem.
Brews & Bastards (Available Now)
Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass
This twin-stick shooter serves up a unique cocktail of chaos and comedy. Players select from a roster of inebriated heroes and blast their way through hordes of drunken demons in pursuit of the stolen Brew Stone. With action-packed combat, potent brews as power-ups, and outlandish boss encounters, it’s an over-the-top experience that doesn’t take itself too seriously—perfect for quick gaming sessions.
Little Nightmares Enhanced Edition (Available Now)
Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass
The dark, whimsical horror of Little Nightmares returns with enhanced visuals in stunning 4K and 60 FPS. Players guide Six, a small child trapped aboard The Maw, a massive vessel populated by grotesque, distorted adults. The combination of puzzle-solving, stealth mechanics, and atmospheric dread makes this enhanced edition an excellent entry point for newcomers or a reason for returning players to revisit childhood nightmares.
Final Fantasy (January 8)
Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass
The game that started one of gaming’s most legendary franchises arrives on Game Pass in its remodeled 2D form. This version retells the classic tale of the Warriors of Light restoring power to the four Crystals through charming retro graphics with modernized ease of play. For RPG enthusiasts curious about the series’ origins or longtime fans wanting a nostalgia trip, this is essential gaming history.
Star Wars Outlaws (January 13)
Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass
The first open-world Star Wars game ever created lands on Game Pass mid-month. Set between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, players step into the boots of scoundrel Kay Vess and her companion Nix. The galaxy becomes your playground as you explore both iconic and brand-new locations, fighting, stealing, and outwitting various crime syndicates. With Ubisoft’s open-world expertise applied to the Star Wars universe, this represents one of the month’s biggest additions.
Resident Evil Village (January 20)
Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass
Capcom’s atmospheric survival horror masterpiece arrives to cap off the month. Continuing Ethan Winters’ story years after Resident Evil 7, players venture into a haunting European village filled with brutal enemies, danger, and mystery. With its blend of action, exploration, gothic horror, and memorable villains (yes, including Lady Dimitrescu). A great addition for those preparing for Resident Evil Requiem next month.
Additional Games
- Atomfall (January 7)
Game Pass Premium - Lost in Random: The Eternal Die (January 7)
Game Pass Premium - Rematch (January 7)
Game Pass Premium - Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine – Master Crafted Edition (January 7)
Game Pass Premium - My Little Pony: A Zephyr Heights Mystery (January 15)
Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass
Final Thoughts — Xbox Should’ve Went Harder (Pause)
January’s first wave of Xbox Game Pass additions brings a respectable mix of genres and experiences to the service. Heavy hitters like Star Wars Outlaws and Resident Evil Village provide substantial AAA experiences, while day-one indie titles like MIO: Memories in Orbit offer fresh adventures for subscribers. The enhanced version of Little Nightmares and the classic Final Fantasy add nostalgic value, rounding out a lineup that touches most player preferences.
However, it’s difficult to ignore that this wave feels somewhat modest, especially following the 50% price increase for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate that took effect in late 2025. While there are undeniably great games here, overall the lineup may leave some subscribers feeling the value proposition isn’t justified. It’s not a terrible start to 2026, but it’s certainly not the bombastic opening statement many might have hoped for after a significant price hike.
For existing subscribers, there’s enough here to keep busy through mid-January. For those on the fence about joining or maintaining their subscription, this wave alone might not be the compelling reason they’re looking for. Here’s hoping the second wave and subsequent months bring more consistent value to match the service’s premium pricing.
