Microsoft has started 2025 by strengthening its catalog Xbox Game Pass, its game subscription service. The list of releases for the first half of January includes a variety of titles, such as the classic Devil, the fighting simulator EA Sports UFC 5 and the acclaimed Road 96. New games are coming from today, January 7th, until the 14th, covering different platforms, such as cloud, console and PC.
Among the new releases, there are options ranging from narrative adventures to agricultural simulations. In the meantime, some titles will leave the catalog on January 15, a common practice for the service. Check out the highlights and release dates below.
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Busy start: Road 96 and Lightyear Frontier
The month begins with the return of Road 96 to Xbox Game Pass, available now on January 7 for cloud, console, and PC. This narrative adventure game allows players to explore interconnected stories as they make decisions that shape the fate of the characters and the world around them. Each choice opens unique paths on a journey filled with mystery.
On January 8th, it arrives Lightyear Frontier, still in version Game Preview. Exclusive to Xbox Series X|S, the game mixes simulation and exploration in an alien world. With construction and farming mechanics, the player can grow exotic plants, customize their mech and solve the planet's puzzles while playing alone or in teams with friends.
More options on the 8th: RPGs and life simulators
Also on the 8th, subscribers will be able to access My Time at Sandrock. This post-apocalyptic simulator continues the style of My Time at Portia, featuring construction tasks, combat and interaction with residents in a city threatened by economic hardship. Available for consoles, the game offers a relaxing experience with touches of action.
Another highlight of the same day is Robin Hood – Sherwood Builders. The title combines RPG with base-building elements and historical storytelling. Players can explore 12th-century England, help locals and expand hideouts while facing enemies in quests inspired by the legend of Robin Hood.
Still on January 8th, Rolling Hills arrives on consoles as a more casual alternative. In it, the player takes on the role of a robot chef in a life simulator focused on managing a sushi restaurant. In addition to managing the business, it is possible to interact with villagers, build friendships and customize the establishment.
Diablo and UFC 5 expand their catalog on January 14
The second week of January is marked by two major releases. On the 14th, Game Pass Ultimate subscribers will have access to the classic Devil, developed by Blizzard. Available for PC, the game returns to introduce younger players to its dark setting and mechanics that defined the action RPG genre.
On the same day, EA Sports UFC 5 joins the Game Pass Ultimate catalog via EA Play, covering the cloud and Xbox Series X|S. In addition to the base game, members will be able to redeem the Bruce Lee Bundle as an additional benefit until February 11, expanding the experience with legendary characters from the mixed martial arts universe.
While new options are coming to the service, other games are leaving. On January 15, titles like Exoprimal, Common'Hood and Escape Academy are leaving the catalog. Subscribers who wish to keep these games will be able to purchase them at a discount before their permanent removal.
Diversity and benefits for Xbox Game Pass subscribers
With a variety of titles, Xbox Game Pass reaffirms its strategy of offering options for different player profiles. From exciting narratives like Road 96 to technical challenges such as UFC 5, passing through classics such as Devil, the service maintains its appeal as one of the most robust on the market.
Game Pass Ultimate subscribers also have additional benefits, such as access to EA Play and exclusive discounts. With constant updates and a rotating system of titles, the service is consolidating itself as an attractive option for both veterans and new players.