Top Xbox Game Pass Games to Play in January 2025

Microsoft’s Game Pass service is an exceptional value that transcends traditional gaming experiences. While some players may hesitate to embrace a subscription model for accessing their favorite titles, the extensive library offered, including both indie gems and blockbuster hits, comes at a remarkably affordable monthly price.

With such a vast selection available, identifying the standout games can feel overwhelming. Since the monthly fee covers access to numerous exciting titles, players should focus on maximizing their hard drive space with the most rewarding choices. Thankfully, the best games on Xbox Game Pass are easy to pinpoint. Below, we explore some of the top offerings you shouldn’t miss.

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This list also features games available through EA Play, included with a Game Pass Ultimate subscription.

Halo: The Master Chief Collection

The Rookie from ODST, Master Chief in Halo CE, Noble Six in Reach

The Master Chief Collection provides unprecedented access to the legendary Halo series. This comprehensive collection features every main entry—minus Halo 5: Guardians—along with beloved titles like Halo 3: ODST and Halo: Reach. Players can enjoy campaigns, classic co-op missions, and exhilarating multiplayer modes, making it essential for any Halo enthusiast. It’s the perfect way for newcomers to dive into the Master Chief saga and for veterans to revisit cherished memories.

Road 96

Road 96 stands out with its ambitious blend of branching narratives and procedural generation, delivering a unique role-playing experience. While some narrative paths may falter, the game predominantly shines with its politically charged story of youth striving to escape their troubled homeland. Players face life-or-death decisions, where not every character is guaranteed survival, enriching the immersive storytelling as you navigate diverse character arcs with each escape attempt.

Carrion

Carrion offers a thrilling twist on the horror genre, presenting itself as a “reverse-horror” game. Players control a monstrous, amorphous entity intent on escaping captivity, devouring unsuspecting scientists and soldiers in the process. It refrains from overwhelming visuals while focusing on visceral gameplay, allowing players to relish the power of being the monster. Unlike typical horror games where one must evade threats, here you embody the threat, making for a captivating and enjoyable experience.

Spyro Reignited Trilogy

The nostalgic charm of the Spyro Reignited Trilogy is irresistible, especially for fans of the classic 3D platformer. This collection revamps the original trilogy—comprising Spyro the Dragon, Spyro 2: Ripto’s Rage!, and Spyro: Year of the Dragon—giving both newcomers and returning players a delightful journey filled with platforming challenges and whimsical environments, albeit with a few gameplay hiccups reflective of the original design.

Nine Sols

Among the myriad Metroidvania titles available on Xbox Game Pass, Nine Sols emerges with remarkable distinction. Drawing inspiration from Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, it introduces a captivating parry system that enriches combat dynamics. The game’s engaging narrative, stunning art style, and responsive platforming mechanics invite players to explore its depths. If you appreciate titles like Ori and the Will of the Wisps or Hollow Knight, Nine Sols is a must-play experience.

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle brilliantly reimagines the adventurous essence of the iconic character, similar to how the Arkham series honors Batman. Players engage in archaeological puzzles and hilarious confrontations with foes while navigating treacherous environments. This game captures the spirit of Indiana Jones, providing both fans and newcomers an engaging introduction to this legendary figure.

Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled

Alternate Coco And Polar Bear Dodging An Explosion In Carts

Catering to fans of arcade racing, Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled revives a classic character-driven racing experience, filling a niche in the Xbox Game Pass library. With enhancements to visuals and mechanics, players can race, jump, and use power-ups to their advantage. The Adventure Mode offers a nostalgic journey for those familiar with the original game, making it a delightful addition for both new and returning players.

Aliens: Dark Descent

Aliens: Dark Descent offers a tactical approach to the beloved franchise, distinguishing itself from traditional horror adaptations. Taking cues from XCOM, players lead a squad of Colonial Marines in real-time strategic gameplay, navigating intense encounters with Xenomorphs. This combination of real-time action with tactical decision-making creates a dynamic and thrilling gaming experience for fans of the genre.

Goat Simulator: Remastered

Goat Simulator: Remastered invites players to embrace chaos within a whimsical sandbox environment. The remastered version now includes all DLC, enhancing the wacky mayhem and mischief that attracted fans. As a playful goat, you can explore Goat City Bay and engage in a variety of ludicrous antics, either for nostalgic revisits or new players ready to discover goat escapades.

Little Kitty, Big City

Little Kitty, Big City caters to players yearning for charming feline adventures in the wake of Stray’s influence. Embracing the mischief of being a cat, this game allows players to explore an open-world environment filled with playful interactions. The emphasis on exploration and humor captures the essence of cat-like curiosity, offering plenty of enjoyable pranks without a rigid storyline.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6

With the launch of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, the franchise takes an impressive leap following its acquisition. Retaining traditional CoD elements while innovating on its core mechanics, the game introduces a refined movement system that enhances gameplay fluidity. Combining cinematic storytelling with action-packed campaigns, it caters to both loyal fans and newcomers seeking an engaging FPS experience worth playing.

Donut County

Mira and BK dropping a donut into a hole

The gameplay in Donut County revolves around controlling a growing hole that swallows various objects, delivering straightforward yet addictive fun. With its quirky humor and delightful characters, the game offers a captivating experience that is easy to pick up and enjoy, making it an ideal choice for casual gaming sessions.

Inscryption

Inscryption embraces an innovative blend of horror and card-battling mechanics that challenges players’ strategic thinking. As the main character uncovers a hidden narrative within a game, players navigate through a roguelike experience that evolves throughout different acts. Its surreal storytelling coupled with cleverly designed gameplay mechanics makes it a must-try for anyone interested in indie titles.

Sifu

Sifu is a standout addition to Xbox Game Pass, even for those wary of its challenging nature. This beat-’em-up game immerses players in a gritty narrative where persistence plays a pivotal role in mastering combat skills. With each failure, players age, intensifying the combat experience and creating a strong connection to the protagonist’s journey towards vengeance.

We Love Katamari Reroll+ Royal Reverie

The prince rolling up various objects inside a classroom in We Love Katamari Reroll

Experience the joy of rolling with We Love Katamari Reroll+ Royal Reverie, a delightful remaster that invites both newcomers and fans to enjoy the whimsical gameplay. Players collect a multitude of objects to create larger “katamari”balls, exploring imaginative environments and indulging in the pure silliness that defines the Katamari series. This charming title is sure to bring laughter and nostalgia to all who play.

Riders Republic

While sports games typically don’t captivate everyone, Riders Republic breaks the mold with its refreshing atmosphere and engaging gameplay. Set in an expansive open world, players can ride bikes, boards, and more while mastering tricks and stunts. Perfect for unwinding with friends, Riders Republic combines relaxed gameplay and exhilarating sports mechanics to create a standout experience.

Age Of Mythology Retold

With the arrival of Age of Mythology: Retold, players can relish the nostalgic RTS gameplay in an updated format. This classic allows players to choose from various mythological civilizations and select gods to guide their empires, crafting intricate strategies and leading armies into battle. It appeals to fans of the Age of Empires series, particularly those wishing for a mythological twist to the genre.

A Little To The Left

Sometimes, a game doesn’t need to be grand to captivate its audience. A Little To The Left focuses on the gentle satisfaction of organizing items just right. This indie puzzle title embodies simplicity and charm, providing delightful moments reminiscent of satisfying tasks, akin to cleaning in PowerWash Simulator. The game’s calming nature makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a tranquil gaming experience.

Core Keeper

At first glance, Core Keeper may appear to be another Stardew Valley-like title, but it offers a distinct blend of survival and crafting gameplay. Players embark on an expedition in a mysterious cave, crafting their needs while battling formidable foes. With engaging RPG elements and base-building mechanics, this game encourages players to sink their teeth into a challenging yet rewarding experience.

Mafia: Definitive Edition

Mafia: Definitive Edition revitalizes the 2002 classic, offering players a narrative-rich experience set in the world of organized crime. As Tommy Angelo, you navigate the moral complexities of mafia life, enhancing the immersive storytelling that captivated players years ago. This modern reimagining combines gripping plotlines with adventure gameplay, perfect for those looking for a captivating story-driven title that channels the allure of mob films.

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