PS Plus January 2026: Sony Kicks Off the Year with Heavy Hitters and Retro Gold
Sony isn't pulling any punches to start 2026. The January update for PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium is one of the strongest "Value-to-Sub" ratios we’ve seen in months. While the core PlayStation Plus Essential tier offers solid utility with Need For Speed Unbound and Core Keeper, the real meat is in the Game Catalog update arriving January 20.
Our analysis suggests this lineup is specifically designed to keep players engaged during the mid-winter lull, featuring two massive 80+ hour RPGs and a survival horror masterpiece that redefined the franchise's first-person pivot.
The Heavyweights: AAA Value Adds
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (PS4/PS5)
This is the definitive win for subscribers this month. Infinite Wealth isn’t just a "Yakuza" game; it’s a massive tonal shift that perfected the turn-based combat introduced in 2020. Getting this on a subscription service is a huge save for players who missed the Hawaii-bound madness at launch. We consider this a "must-download" for the sheer volume of content alone.
Resident Evil Village (PS4/PS5)
If you still haven't faced off against Lady Dimitrescu, now is the time. Village successfully bridged the gap between the claustrophobic horror of RE7 and the campy action of RE4. With the rumored RE9 on the horizon for late 2026, this is the perfect moment for a refresher on Ethan Winters' saga.
January 2026 PS Plus Game Catalog Highlights
| Game Title | Platform | The "In Game News" Take |
|---|---|---|
| Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth | PS4, PS5 | A massive RPG time-sink. Top-tier value. |
| Resident Evil Village | PS4, PS5 | The peak of RE's modern first-person era. |
| Darkest Dungeon 2 | PS4, PS5 | Brutal roguelike mechanics. Not for the faint of heart. |
| Expeditions: A MudRunner Game | PS4, PS5 | Slow-burn physics puzzle. Great for "podcast gaming." |
| Ridge Racer (Premium) | PS4, PS5 | PS1 nostalgia with modern QoL (Save/Rewind). |
The Sleeper Hits: Don't Ignore These
While the big names grab the headlines, we’ve identified two titles that will likely become "cult classics" for subscribers this month:
- The Exit 8: For fans of the "Liminal Space" subgenre, this is a masterclass in tension. It’s short, weird, and perfectly fits the "short-burst" gaming style many of us prefer between 100-hour RPG sessions.
- Darkest Dungeon 2: Unlike its predecessor, this is a literal road trip through the apocalypse. We’ve found the 3D shift controversial among purists, but the tactical depth remains unmatched in the genre.
The Premium Tier: "RIIIIIDGE RACER!"
For those on the Premium tier, the addition of the original Ridge Racer is more than just a meme. It represents Sony's continued (albeit slow) commitment to the PS1 library. This version includes the standard trophy support and "Rewind" features that have become staples of the emulated classics. For veterans who remember the 1994 launch, this is a pure shot of adrenaline; for younger players, it’s a history lesson in drift physics.
Essential Monthly Games (Available until Feb 2)
Don't forget to claim your monthly "keepable" games. Core Keeper is the standout here—it’s a sandbox survival gem that has been a staple in the PC indie scene and translates surprisingly well to a DualSense controller. Need For Speed Unbound provides the arcade racing fix for those who find Gran Turismo’s sim-heavy focus too dry.
Our Verdict: This is a "Grade A" month. Whether you’re looking for high-octane racing, psychological horror, or an RPG that will last you until spring, Sony has delivered the goods. Grab Infinite Wealth first—it’s the best bang for your buck on the service right now.