Xbox Game Pass continues to redefine gaming with its Netflix-style subscription service, offering access to a wide range of titles spanning various Xbox console generations. Notable inclusions consist of every Gears of War and Halo game, along with popular titles like Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim and Forza Horizon 5. As the service frequently updates, gamers are encouraged to check back often for new additions and removals.
In addition to games from third-party publishers, subscribers can look forward to first-party Xbox Game Studios titles being available on Day One for Game Pass Ultimate members.
Recent changes in October 2025 introduced new features, name updates for certain plans, and a price increase for Game Pass Ultimate. The plan formerly known as Game Pass Core is now rebranded as Xbox Game Pass Essential, while Game Pass Standard has become Xbox Game Pass Premium. Existing Core and Standard members will be transitioned to the respective new plans automatically.
Although Xbox Game Pass Ultimate retains its name, it does reflect a price increase. Ultimate members now enjoy additional perks such as access to Fortnite Crew and Ubisoft+ classics.
In January, several noteworthy games are set to join the Xbox Game Pass lineup:
New Xbox Game Pass Games in January
Confirmed games coming to Xbox Game Pass on consoles this January include:
- Little Nightmares Enhanced Edition (added January 6th, 2026)
- Brews and Bastards (added January 6th, 2026)
- Atomfall (added to Game Pass Premium on January 7th, 2026)
- Lost in Random: The Eternal Die (added to Game Pass Premium on January 7th, 2026)
- Rematch (added to Game Pass Premium on January 7th, 2026)
- Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine - Master Crafted Edition (added to Game Pass Premium on January 7th, 2026)
- Final Fantasy (added January 8th, 2026)
- Star Wars Outlaws (added January 13th, 2026 — excluded from Game Pass Premium)
- My Little Pony: A Zephyr Heights Mystery (added January 15th, 2026)
- Resident Evil Village (added January 20th, 2026)
- MIO: Memories in Orbit (added January 20th, 2026 — excluded from Game Pass Premium)
Stay tuned for additional announcements from Microsoft in the coming weeks!
Games Leaving Xbox Game Pass in January
As new games join, some will also depart. The following titles are set to leave Xbox Game Pass on consoles in January:
- Flintlock The Siege of Dawn (leaving January 15th)
- Neon White (leaving January 15th)
- Road 96 (leaving January 15th)
- The Ascent (leaving January 15th)
- The Grinch Christmas Adventures (leaving January 15th)
Xbox Game Pass Essential Overview
Xbox Game Pass Essential, formerly known as Xbox Game Pass Core since October 1st, 2025, keeps a consistent monthly price of £6.99 / €8.99 / $9.99. It still grants access to online multiplayer and a game library that has expanded to be fully playable on both PC and console.
As part of the service, the library of games may vary over time and by region, with updates occurring two to three times annually.
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