As we settle into 2026, PlayStation Plus members are starting the year with a solid mix of titles ranging from high-octane racing to nostalgic platforming and cozy sandbox adventures. Let’s journey through this month’s free games, already available and ready to claim.
January 2026 PS Plus Monthly Games Lineup
Need for Speed Unbound (PS5 Exclusive)
This bold entry in the long-running racing franchise serves high-speed thrills on a visual feast of cel–shaded flair. With both single-player and multiplayer campaigns, the game ramps up the intensity with police pursuits, customizable rides, and weekly qualifiers culminating in the ultimate street racing showdown—The Grand.(blog.playstation.com)
Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed (PS4 & PS5)
A remake of the 2010 platforming classic, this version revitalizes the tale of Mickey Mouse exploring the Wasteland. Painting and thinning mechanics allow players to shape the environment—restore beauty or erase obstacles—in pursuit of hidden secrets and nostalgic Disney charm.(blog.playstation.com)
Core Keeper (PS4 & PS5)
An indie sandbox gem that blends crafting, exploration, and cozy survival. Up to eight players can team up to dig into procedurally generated caverns. Here, you’ll build bases, harvest resources, battle titans, farm, fish, and create a subterranean world rich with possibilities.(blog.playstation.com)
Availability Window: All three titles are available to claim starting January 6, 2026, and remain until February 2, 2026.(blog.playstation.com)
Why These Picks Stand Out
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Genre Diversity: A slick racer (Need for Speed), whimsical platformer (Epic Mickey), and immersive sandbox (Core Keeper). This spread caters to adrenaline junkies, nostalgic gamers, and co-op explorers alike.(gameriv.com)
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Platform Balance: While PS5 remains the focus, Epic Mickey and Core Keeper include PS4 support—though Sony is shifting more heavily toward PS5 offerings in 2026.(techradar.com)
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Community Reception: Core Keeper, in particular, is gaining praise for long–term engagement and replayability—standing out as the under-the-radar favorite.(kotaku.com)
“Core Keeper delivers a rewarding experience for players who enjoy discovery and collaboration.”(gameriv.com)
February Preview: What’s Next for PS Plus Subscribers?
Looking ahead, a leak suggests that Undisputed, a well-regarded PS5 boxing game, may headline the February lineup—potentially available from February 3, 2026 onwards.(t3.com) While Sony hasn’t confirmed this yet, expect the February reveal later this month.
Navigating the PS Plus Experience
Claiming Games
To secure these titles, navigate to the PlayStation Plus or Monthly Games tab on your console or app and add them to your library. Even if you don’t intend to install them right away, claiming ensures you can download whenever—so long as your subscription remains active.(recharge.com)
Subscription Tiers
All three January games are available across Essential, Extra, and Premium tiers. But as Sony pivots toward a PS5-first strategy, PS4 support may become rarer in future months.(theverge.com)
Summary & Strategic Suggestions
January 2026’s PS Plus free games deliver a tight but tastefully varied lineup: the adrenaline of Need for Speed Unbound, Disney’s charming Epic Mickey, and the indie creativity of Core Keeper. Each offers distinct gameplay—ensuring there’s something for every type of gamer. Looking ahead, subscribers should stay alert for February’s surprises, like the potential addition of Undisputed.
Pro Tips:
– Claim January’s games before February 2 to lock them into your library.
– Keep an eye on official announcements or trusted leaks for the February 2026 lineup.
– PS4 users should claim cross-gen titles when available—support may dwindle.
FAQ
When do these PS Plus games become unavailable?
January’s free games are redeemable until February 2, 2026. After that, they rotate out and are replaced by new titles.(blog.playstation.com)
Do I need to be on PS5 only?
No—Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed and Core Keeper are available on both PS4 and PS5. However, Need for Speed Unbound is PS5 exclusive.(blog.playstation.com)
Can I keep the games forever?
These games stay in your library as long as your PlayStation Plus subscription remains active. If you cancel, access to monthly games is lost—even those previously claimed.(theverge.com)
What’s expected for February?
Unconfirmed leaks cite Undisputed as a possible headliner. Expect Sony’s official lineup announcement by late January.(t3.com)
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