Every New Game Coming to Xbox Game Pass in January 2026, Ranked

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January 2026’s Xbox Game Pass selection is a bit smaller than usual. This is likely because fewer games generally release in January, making it harder to add a lot of new titles to the service. Plus, some of the games being added to the middle tier of Game Pass are already available on the higher ‘Ultimate’ tier – like Rematch and Atomfall, which are now expanding to the Premium tier as well.

In addition to the exciting action game MIO: Memories in Orbit launching on January 20th, here’s a look at all the other games coming to Xbox Game Pass in January 2026.

10) My Little Pony: A Zephyr Heights Mystery

It’s tough for a game like My Little Pony: A Zephyr Heights Mystery to compete with a lot of classic games available. This platformer, which lets two players team up and includes mini-games based on the TV show, is similar to other games from Outright Games – it works well enough, is geared towards younger children, and doesn’t offer enough depth to keep older players engaged.

9) Brews and Bastards

Brews and Bastards combines drinking with combat, but the fighting isn’t as strong as other games in the genre. The shooting feels weak and isn’t very refined, and the visuals are fairly uninspired. It’s also odd that, despite appearing to be designed for it, the game doesn’t currently feature a roguelike mode.

8) Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine – Master Crafted Edition

The Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine – Master Crafted Edition is a refreshed version of the 2011 action game. While the original game still holds up visually and gameplay-wise, making this remaster somewhat questionable, it remains fun to battle through waves of enemies as the powerful Captain Titus, wielding his iconic chainsword. It definitely feels like a game from a different time, with some limitations that come with that, but its straightforward, contained design is also a welcome change of pace. Initial complaints focused on the game’s high price, which Sega has since addressed, and now, being available on Game Pass makes it even more accessible.

7) Final Fantasy

This is where the legendary Final Fantasy series started. As the very first game, it’s simpler than later installments, with a less complex story and a traditional turn-based battle system. While its simplicity might be noticeable, it’s still worth playing for its historical significance. Thankfully, this remake includes quality-of-life improvements like an experience boost to reduce repetitive grinding and the option to disable random battles, making it more enjoyable for modern players.

6) Little Nightmares Enhanced Edition

Little Nightmares quickly became well-known for its spooky and cinematic platforming. While two sequels have built on what made the original special, this first game remains a fantastic experience. Though the gameplay relies heavily on trial and error, which can be frustrating, and later games are more refined, the unsettling atmosphere still works incredibly well. This updated version also benefits from improved visuals and performance, making it a compelling play even now.

5) Atomfall

At first glance, Atomfall seems like Rebellion’s version of Fallout, and that’s not entirely off base. The game does involve a lot of exploration through a ruined world. However, Atomfall focuses more on the challenges of survival and gives players greater freedom to roam. Instead of using map markers to guide you, the game encourages you to investigate naturally, following clues you find or overhear – and it’s very rewarding. Gathering supplies adds to the tension, as you carefully manage your limited inventory. While the combat and stealth aren’t perfect, the strong exploration makes up for these shortcomings.

4) Star Wars Outlaws

Star Wars Outlaws shares many similarities with other open-world Ubisoft games. While it’s not particularly groundbreaking and its story isn’t very memorable, it delivers a solid experience. The game combines familiar elements like exploration, stealth, and combat, but what really stands out is how well it captures the feeling of being a smuggler – something previous Star Wars games haven’t fully explored. Hanging out in cantinas and infiltrating enemy hideouts add a unique flavor, and Ubisoft’s efforts to refine the core gameplay really make this aspect shine.

3) Lost in Random: The Eternal Die

While Lost in Random: The Eternal Die differs significantly from the first game – it’s a different genre created by a new developer – it’s still a great title. This game, similar to Hades, features quick, satisfying combat with plenty of unpredictable elements. It successfully incorporates familiar elements from the original, like dice rolls and a distinctive Tim Burton-inspired art style, while also forging its own path. Though it doesn’t quite reach the heights of Hades or other top games in the genre, it’s still a fun and enjoyable experience.

2) Rematch

2025 saw a lot of soccer games, including titles like Despelote, Football Heroes League, and EA Sports FC 26, but Rematch stood out as the best. Developed by Sloclap, known for their action games, Rematch feels fantastic and responsive. It’s easy to pick up and play, but mastering the game requires skill and practice, much like learning a complex combo in a fighting game. The effort is rewarding, though! Sloclap has consistently refined the game, adding depth while maintaining a strong, action-focused core that makes it one of the most enjoyable sports games in years.

1) Resident Evil Village

Resident Evil Village successfully blends the most popular features from past Resident Evil games. It captures the suspenseful, chase-like gameplay of the Resident Evil 2 and 7 remakes, the action-packed combat of Resident Evil 4, and the sheer horror of the original 1996 game. Each of these styles gets its own distinct area, keeping the gameplay fresh and the pacing excellent. Combined with a surprisingly good story and some of Capcom’s best graphics yet, it’s clear why Village is one of the strongest games in the long-running Resident Evil series.

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2026-01-07 17:17