The month of January begins with three new free games for PlayStation Plus Essential subscribers. Players can now download Need for Speed Unbound (PS5), Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed (PS4, PS5) and Core Keeper (PS4, PS5). This new batch follows an exceptional month of December which offered five, but this time, the selection seems to be divisive. The games are available starting January 6 at noon local time in all regions.
A selection criticized by PS Plus subscribers
Contrary to expectations, the January selection is not unanimous. Sony had announced that it wanted to prioritize PS5 titles in 2026, which suggested a move upmarket. However, subscribers discover a remake of a 2010 game with Epic Mickeya 2022 indie game featuring Core KeeperAnd Need for Speed Unboundalready offered at a knockdown price on the PlayStation Store ($12.74 until January 8). The frustration is palpable on forums and social networks, where many subscribers were hoping for newer or more ambitious games to open the year.
Last chance for December free games
With the new games now available, it’s also the last moment to collect those from the previous month. The December selection was praised for its richness and diversity: Lego Horizon Adventures, Killing Floor 3, The Outlast Trials, Synduality: Echo of Ada And Neon White. These titles will remain available for download until January 6 at noon local time. If you haven’t already done so, it is therefore urgent to add them to your library so as not to miss out.
A mixed start to the year for Sony
With only three games and titles considered unexciting, the 2026 start of PlayStation Plus Essential does not meet expectations. If Need for Speed Unbound remains a good choice for fans of arcade racing, the rest of the selection is seen as a slowdown after a generous month of December. It remains to be seen whether Sony will correct the situation in February. In the meantime, PS5 and PS4 players can still enjoy these titles for free if they are subscribed, and keep an eye out for upcoming PS Store announcements.