Xbox Game Pass Adds Two Major Games This January

Both Sniper Elite: Resistance and Citizen Sleeper 2 will be available on Game Pass before the close of January, alongside a host of other exciting titles. While games rotate on the service, January has unveiled an especially impressive collection of notable releases and updates all at once. This month features several day-one launches, plus various updates and expansions that are likely to refresh your favorite games.

Sniper Elite: Resistance — January 30

In terms of gameplay, few franchises can compete with Sniper Elite. Blending stealth and strategic combat, Sniper Elite: Resistance stands out not just as a sniping simulation. You'll need to carefully consider your targets and methodically plan your shot while avoiding detection.

Citizen Sleeper 2 — January 31

The first installment, Citizen Sleeper, was a remarkable RPG, and Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector builds on that with an amnesiac android struggling with a malfunctioning body. Your mission is to find a ship, gather a crew, and keep soaring through the cosmos. Think of it as a cyborg version of Firefly—which is incredibly thrilling!

Lonely Mountain: Snow Riders — January 21

Lonely Mountain: Snow Riders is the sequel to Lonely Mountains: Downhill, bringing a Trials-like experience where you conquer mountain trails on skis in a race against other players, either online or setting impressive personal bests. This title is available now on Game Pass.

Flock — January 22

Flock explores a whimsical idea—what if sheep could fly? Though they’re not technically sheep, this co-op multiplayer game revolves around herding charming airborne creatures. It's a lighthearted, stress-free way to enjoy time with friends without fierce competition.

Gigantic: Rampage Edition — January 22

This is not the Rampage game you might be imagining. Gigantic: Rampage Edition is a 5v5 multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) shooter where you aim to defeat the opposing team's Guardian while protecting your own.

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess — January 22

In Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess, you play as Soh, a guardian tasked with defending Shrine Maiden Yoshiro from waves of foes. The gameplay integrates tower-defense elements with intense enemy hordes that you must slice through to achieve your goals, along with opportunities for permanent upgrades outside of battles.

Magical Delicacy — January 22

Magical Delicacy is a charming exploration and cooking adventure that invites you to venture through your village and its surrounding areas for ingredients. Villagers will request various dishes, and it's your job to gather supplies. Be cautious: while the game has a cozy vibe, it also presents several challenges.

Tchia — January 22

An open-world exploration game, Tchia tasks you with rescuing your father from a tyrant. Its stunning art style and physics-driven gameplay enhance the joy of exploration, deeply inspired by the culture of New Caledonia.

The Case of the Golden Idol — January 22

Featuring a distinctive and unsettling art style, The Case of the Golden Idol is a murder mystery that challenges players to uncover clues and piece together the events leading to the victims' demise.

Starbound — January 22

If you're a fan of Terraria, you will likely enjoy Starbound. While it leans more toward exploration rather than combat, its gameplay bears a close resemblance, serving as a spiritual successor of sorts.

Eternal Strands — January 28

The fantasy title Eternal Strands from Yellow Brick Games features developers with backgrounds in acclaimed series like Mass Effect and Dragon Age. This is a day-one release that involves battling vast creatures to prevent the collapse of the world.

Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap — January 28

Another day-one offering, Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap maintains the franchise's legacy, blending tower defense with third-person shooter elements. You'll face waves of enemies intent on overrunning your position, utilizing an extensive arsenal of weapons at your disposal.

Shady Part of Me — January 29

This narrative-centered experience may not take long to complete, but it leaves a lasting impression. A young girl and her shadow navigate a surreal journey across dreamlike landscapes filled with unexpected twists and turns.