Sony Reveals PS Plus Essential Free Games for January 2026

Three diverse titles hit the service, with Need for Speed: Unbound leading the pack

Sony has officially announced the PlayStation Plus Essential lineup for January 2026, bringing three distinct gaming experiences to subscribers. The collection launches on January 6 and will be available throughout the month.

The January 2026 Lineup

Need for Speed: Unbound The standout title this month is EA’s street racing game that combines photorealistic graphics with stylized visual effects. Released in 2022, Unbound represents the latest evolution of the long-running franchise, featuring an open-world Chicago-inspired city, extensive car customization, and competitive multiplayer racing.

For racing fans, this is the clear highlight. Unbound’s blend of arcade handling and visual flair makes it accessible while still offering depth for those who want to master its mechanics. The game’s integration of cel-shaded effects during races creates a unique aesthetic that sets it apart from simulation-heavy competitors.

Core Keeper This indie survival crafting game takes players underground to explore a vast, procedurally generated cave system. Players mine resources, fight creatures, build bases, and gradually expand their subterranean domain. The game supports co-op multiplayer for up to eight players, making it a solid choice for groups looking for a cooperative experience.

Core Keeper draws inspiration from titles like Terraria and Stardew Valley, offering a loop of exploration, crafting, and progression that can easily consume dozens of hours.

Epic Mickey: Rebrushed The remastered version of Disney’s 2010 platformer brings Mickey Mouse into a darker, paint-and-thinner-based adventure through the Wasteland. The Rebrushed edition updates the original Wii game with improved graphics, refined controls, and modern quality-of-life features.

This is a straightforward action-platformer with light puzzle elements, appealing primarily to Disney fans and those nostalgic for early 2010s platforming games.

Availability

All three games become available for PS Plus Essential subscribers on January 6, 2026. As with all Essential offerings, these titles remain in your library as long as your subscription is active, even after they rotate out of the monthly selection.

Bottom Line

January’s lineup offers solid variety across genres. Need for Speed: Unbound is the most significant addition, giving racing fans a modern AAA title with strong visuals and engaging gameplay. Core Keeper provides depth for those seeking a long-term co-op experience, while Epic Mickey: Rebrushed serves as a lighter, family-friendly option.

If you’ve been waiting to try Unbound or looking for a new co-op game to play with friends, this month’s Essential selection delivers value.