The new year has commenced with a significant refresh for Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass subscription service, bringing a diverse array of titles to subscribers across various platforms. January 2024 sees the introduction of major AAA releases, critically acclaimed remakes, tactical multiplayer experiences, and intriguing indie games, designed to cater to a broad spectrum of gaming preferences. This influx of content reinforces Game Pass’s position as a cornerstone of the Xbox ecosystem, offering substantial value to its growing subscriber base. However, the month also marks the departure of several high-profile titles, prompting subscribers to prioritize their play schedules.
January’s Premier Additions: Headliners and Hidden Gems
The highlight of January’s Game Pass offerings undoubtedly rests on two colossal titles: Assassin’s Creed Valhalla and the critically lauded remake of Resident Evil 2. These additions are poised to attract significant player engagement, representing different facets of the gaming landscape – an expansive open-world RPG and a tense survival horror masterpiece.
Close to the Sun: A Narrative Thriller with Bioshock Echoes (Available Now)
Kicking off the month’s additions, Close to the Sun became immediately available for Game Pass subscribers. Released in 2019 by developer Storm in a Teacup and publisher Wired Productions, this first-person adventure game quickly drew comparisons to the iconic BioShock series, largely due to its atmospheric setting and narrative-driven gameplay. Set in an alternate 19th century aboard a colossal research vessel known as the Helios, the game immerses players in a world steeped in Nikola Tesla’s scientific brilliance and the haunting aftermath of a mysterious catastrophe.
The game tasks players with navigating the desolate, yet visually stunning, corridors of the Helios as Rose Archer, a journalist searching for her sister Ada. Close to the Sun prioritizes exploration, puzzle-solving, and environmental storytelling over combat, fostering a pervasive sense of dread and isolation. Upon its initial release, the game garnered a Metacritic score of 75 for its Xbox One version, with critics generally commending its intricate atmosphere, compelling narrative, and striking Art Deco-inspired visuals. The game’s ability to evoke a specific mood and deliver a tightly woven, albeit linear, story was frequently cited as its strongest asset, making it an ideal choice for players who appreciate narrative depth and psychological suspense.
Hell Let Loose: Tactical World War II Warfare (Arriving January 4)
Following closely on January 4, Hell Let Loose makes its debut on Game Pass. Developed by Black Matter and published by Team17, this World War II tactical first-person shooter distinguishes itself from its genre peers through its uncompromising commitment to historical accuracy and large-scale, strategic warfare. The game throws players into massive 50 versus 50 battles across sprawling, meticulously recreated battlefields based on real-world locations such as Omaha Beach and Foy.
Hell Let Loose is not a run-and-gun shooter; it demands a high degree of teamwork, communication, and strategic thinking. Players must choose from one of 14 historically accurate roles, ranging from infantry and tank crews to officers and support roles, each with unique responsibilities and equipment. The game features a resource-based meta-game where supply lines and logistics are crucial for success, influencing everything from artillery strikes to respawn points. Its focus on combined arms tactics, authentic weaponry, and realistic ballistics provides a deeply immersive and challenging experience. With an impressive Metascore of 84, critics praised Hell Let Loose for its intense realism, strategic depth, and the unparalleled satisfaction derived from coordinating with a team to achieve victory. Its inclusion in Game Pass offers a prime opportunity for tactical shooter enthusiasts to dive into one of the genre’s most demanding, yet rewarding, titles.
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla: Embarking on a Viking Saga (Arriving January 9)
January 9 marks the arrival of one of the month’s flagship titles, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla. Developed by Ubisoft Montreal and published by Ubisoft in 2020, Valhalla is the twelfth major installment in the iconic Assassin’s Creed series and the third in its modern RPG-focused trilogy, following Origins and Odyssey. The game transports players to the brutal and beautiful world of the Viking Age, primarily set in 9th-century England and Norway.
Players assume the role of Eivor Varinsdottir, a fierce Viking raider, as they lead their clan from the icy fjords of Norway to the lush, war-torn kingdoms of Anglo-Saxon England. Valhalla emphasizes exploration, combat, and settlement management, allowing players to build and expand their Viking settlement of Ravensthorpe, forge alliances, and engage in epic raids. The game blends the series’ signature stealth and parkour mechanics with a robust action RPG combat system, featuring dual-wielding, powerful abilities, and brutal finishing moves. Its narrative delves into themes of destiny, honor, and the clash of cultures, interwoven with the overarching lore of the Assassin-Templar conflict. While Destructoid’s original review deemed it "Okay," citing some design choices that discouraged stealth, the game still enjoyed widespread commercial success and critical appreciation for its vast open world, engaging combat, and compelling historical setting. Its addition to Game Pass provides an excellent entry point for new players or a revisit for those who wish to fully explore its expansive post-launch content.
Figment: A Musical Mind-Bending Adventure (Arriving January 9)
Also arriving on January 9 is Figment, an indie action-adventure game from Bedtime Digital Games, initially released in 2017 (for PC) and 2018 (for consoles). Figment stands out with its unique premise and distinctive art style. The game is set within the whimsical and often surreal landscapes of the human mind, where thoughts, fears, and memories take on physical forms.
Players control Dusty, the mind’s former courage, and his ever-optimistic companion, Piper, as they embark on a journey to restore peace to the mind, which has been plagued by nightmares. The game’s most striking feature is its integration of music into gameplay: enemies sing, environments hum, and the entire world feels like a living, breathing musical. Combat is straightforward, but the real charm lies in its imaginative puzzle design, witty dialogue, and deeply metaphorical narrative exploring themes of courage, fear, and overcoming inner demons. Figment received generally favorable reviews, with critics praising its artistic direction, clever musical integration, and heartfelt story. Its inclusion offers Game Pass subscribers a charming, thought-provoking, and aesthetically pleasing experience that is a refreshing departure from larger-scale titles.
Mid-Month Power Surge: Sports, Dystopia, and Survival Horror
The middle of January sees another significant wave of additions, headlined by a highly anticipated survival horror title and a popular sports simulation.
Super Mega Baseball 4: Arcade Diamond Action (Arriving January 11 via EA Play)
On January 11, Super Mega Baseball 4 joins the Game Pass library via EA Play, which is included with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscriptions. Developed by Metalhead Software and published by EA Sports, this title continues the series’ tradition of providing an accessible, arcade-style baseball experience that prioritizes fun and personality over ultra-realistic simulation.
Super Mega Baseball 4 expands upon its predecessors with improved mechanics, deeper customization options, and a roster of over 200 legendary baseball players, allowing fans to play with iconic figures like Babe Ruth and Jackie Robinson in a stylized, non-licensed environment. The game strikes a perfect balance between easy-to-learn controls and surprising strategic depth, making it enjoyable for both casual players and seasoned baseball fans. Its unique Ego system, which allows players to fine-tune the difficulty to an incredibly granular degree, ensures a challenging yet fair experience for everyone. The series has consistently garnered strong reviews for its engaging gameplay and charm, and this latest iteration builds upon that solid foundation, offering a vibrant alternative to more simulation-heavy titles like MLB The Show.
We Happy Few: A Dystopian Return (Arriving January 11)
Also making a return to Game Pass on January 11 is We Happy Few. Developed by Compulsion Games and published by Gearbox Publishing, this action-adventure survival game first launched in 2018. Set in a retro-futuristic, dystopian version of 1960s England called Wellington Wells, the game presents a society obsessed with conformity and happiness, enforced by a hallucinogenic drug called "Joy."
Players experience the narrative through the perspectives of three distinct characters, each attempting to escape the oppressive regime and uncover the dark secrets beneath Wellington Wells’ cheerful facade. The game combines elements of survival, stealth, and crafting within a unique narrative structure. Its distinctive art style, reminiscent of mid-century British design, and its dark comedic tone create a truly memorable, albeit unsettling, atmosphere. While its initial reception was somewhat mixed, We Happy Few has cultivated a dedicated following for its compelling world-building and thought-provoking themes. Its return to Game Pass offers another chance for players to delve into its unsettling, Joy-fueled reality.
Resident Evil 2: A Masterpiece of Survival Horror (Arriving January 11)
Undoubtedly one of the most significant additions of the month, Resident Evil 2 arrives on Game Pass on January 11. Developed and published by Capcom in 2019, this title is a complete remake of the seminal 1998 PlayStation classic. It meticulously reconstructs the horror experience from the ground up, delivering a modern survival horror masterpiece that redefined what a remake could be.
Set in Raccoon City, players navigate the terrifying events following a viral outbreak through the eyes of rookie police officer Leon S. Kennedy and college student Claire Redfield. The remake retains the core narrative and iconic characters but modernizes the gameplay with an over-the-shoulder perspective, stunning photorealistic graphics powered by the RE Engine, and refined controls. It masterfully balances intense combat encounters with intricate puzzle-solving and resource management, creating an atmosphere of constant dread and vulnerability. The relentless pursuit by the Tyrant (Mr. X) adds an unparalleled layer of tension. Destructoid’s Chris Carter lauded it as "superb" upon its release, a sentiment echoed by critics worldwide, earning it a Metacritic score of 93. Resident Evil 2 is widely considered one of the best remakes in gaming history, offering both nostalgic appeal for veterans and a terrifyingly compelling experience for newcomers. Its inclusion on Game Pass is a major draw for horror fans and anyone seeking a top-tier single-player experience.
Those Who Remain: A Psychological Thriller (Arriving January 16)
Concluding the mid-month additions, Those Who Remain arrives on January 16. Developed by Camel 101 and published by Wired Productions, this psychological horror game launched in 2020. It places players in the shoes of Edward Turner, a man wrestling with personal demons, who finds himself trapped in the eerie town of Dormont, a place shrouded in perpetual darkness where strange lights and shadowy figures lurk.
The game focuses on a narrative-driven experience, exploring themes of infidelity, guilt, and redemption. Players must navigate Dormont, solving puzzles and making moral choices that impact the story’s outcome. A key mechanic involves the interplay between light and darkness, as staying in the dark for too long invites danger from the "shadow people." While Those Who Remain attempts to deliver a compelling psychological horror experience, it received middling reviews upon release. Critics noted its atmospheric tension but often pointed to issues with pacing, voice acting, and some repetitive gameplay elements. Given the concurrent arrival of the critically acclaimed Resident Evil 2, Those Who Remain might struggle to capture the attention of Game Pass subscribers seeking their horror fix this month.
Significant Departures: Farewell to Gaming Giants
While January brings a wealth of new content, it also marks the bittersweet departure of several prominent titles from the Game Pass library. These removals underscore the rotating nature of subscription services, urging players to complete their favorite games before they vanish.
Grand Theft Auto V: An Enduring Phenomenon Departs (Leaving January 5)
The most impactful departure of the month is arguably Grand Theft Auto V, which left Game Pass on January 5. Developed by Rockstar North and published by Rockstar Games in 2013, GTA V is one of the best-selling video games of all time, having sold over 190 million copies globally as of November 2023. Its longevity and unparalleled commercial success are a testament to its sprawling open world, compelling narrative, and the enduring popularity of its online component, Grand Theft Auto Online.
Set in the fictional state of San Andreas, based on Southern California, the game features three playable protagonists—trevor, Franklin, and Michael—whose intertwined criminal lives offer a multifaceted perspective on satire, ambition, and the American dream. GTA V received universal critical acclaim, boasting a Metacritic score of 97, for its groundbreaking open-world design, engaging story, memorable characters, and technical achievements. Its presence on Game Pass provided an accessible entry point for countless players to experience both its critically acclaimed single-player campaign and its continuously evolving multiplayer universe. Its removal means players will now need to purchase the game outright to continue their adventures in Los Santos, marking a significant loss for the service’s catalog.
Persona 3 Portable & Persona 4 Golden: JRPG Gems Exit (Leaving January 15)
On January 15, Game Pass subscribers will also lose access to two highly beloved Japanese role-playing games: Persona 3 Portable and Persona 4 Golden. Both developed and published by Atlus, these titles are enhanced versions of their original PlayStation 2 counterparts, bringing their unique blend of high school life simulation and supernatural dungeon crawling to a broader audience.
Persona 3 Portable (2009, 2023 rerelease) introduced the option to play as a female protagonist, offering a new perspective on the dark, philosophical narrative centered around the mysterious "Dark Hour" and the battle against Shadows. It explores themes of death, identity, and the meaning of life. Persona 4 Golden (2012, 2023 rerelease) expands upon the original Persona 4‘s captivating murder mystery storyline, set in the rural town of Inaba. It delves into themes of truth, self-acceptance, and friendship, featuring a vibrant cast of characters and an unforgettable soundtrack. Both games are renowned for their innovative social simulation mechanics, where players manage daily life, build relationships, and improve stats alongside engaging turn-based combat and deep character progression. They boast Metacritic scores in the high 80s and low 90s, with critics praising their intricate storytelling, stylish presentation, and emotional depth. Their departure will be keenly felt by JRPG fans who utilized Game Pass to experience these modern classics.
Broader Implications and Game Pass Strategy
The January 2024 Game Pass lineup and removals reflect Microsoft’s ongoing strategy to maintain a dynamic and compelling subscription service. The inclusion of major first-party titles (like Valhalla through Ubisoft+ integration for Ultimate subscribers, or simply as a direct Game Pass addition), critically acclaimed third-party games (Resident Evil 2), and diverse indie experiences demonstrates a commitment to variety and value. The service continues to attract different types of players, from those seeking sprawling open worlds to those preferring intense tactical shooters or narrative-driven adventures.
The rotating nature of the library, while sometimes disappointing for subscribers when beloved titles depart, is a fundamental aspect of the Game Pass model. It encourages players to engage with games within a specific window, fostering a sense of urgency and discovery. The departures of games like GTA V and the Persona titles, while significant, also free up space and licensing budget for new acquisitions, ensuring a fresh stream of content. For Microsoft, Game Pass is not just a gaming service but a key component of its broader Xbox ecosystem, driving engagement, hardware sales, and digital storefront purchases. The consistent delivery of high-quality titles like those announced for January is crucial for retaining existing subscribers and attracting new ones in an increasingly competitive market for gaming subscriptions.
In conclusion, January 2024 presents a strong start to the year for Xbox Game Pass. While some iconic games bid farewell, the arrival of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, Resident Evil 2, Hell Let Loose, and a host of other diverse titles ensures that subscribers will have no shortage of compelling experiences to dive into as they navigate the winter months. The continuous evolution of the Game Pass library remains a testament to its central role in the modern gaming landscape.