Xbox Game Pass is kicking off its mid-January update with a bang, headlined by the highly anticipated Star Wars Outlaws hitting the service. This massive injection of content, which also includes a morally complex zombie survival sim and a familiar My Little Pony adventure, arrives as several notable titles prepare for their departure. For subscribers, this signifies a crucial refresh that balances exciting new opportunities with the perennial need to prioritize playtime before beloved games vanish.

The Headline Act: Star Wars Outlaws Lands on Game Pass

For many, the star of this mid-month update is undoubtedly Star Wars Outlaws. Arriving on January 13th for Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S (specifically for Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscribers), this marks the first time a truly open-world Star Wars action-adventure is available day one on the service. Set between the events of The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, players will step into the boots of Kay Vess, a scoundrel carving a path through the galaxy's criminal underworld. Our own review scored it a respectable 4/5, praising its ambitious open-world design and unique take on the Star Wars universe, despite minor quibbles about stealth focus and occasional bugs. This addition alone makes a Game Pass subscription a compelling proposition for Star Wars faithful.

New Worlds, Tough Choices: Other Notable Additions

Beyond the galaxy far, far away, Game Pass is offering a diverse range of experiences:

• Quarantine Zone: The Last Check (PC Game Pass, January 12th): This isn't your typical zombie survival game. Instead, players assume the role of a government agent manning a critical checkpoint. The core gameplay loop revolves around agonizing moral decisions: who gets in, who gets turned away, and what are the consequences for humanity? Coupled with base management where supplies and defenses are paramount, this promises a slow-burn, pressure-filled experience that tests your resolve.
• My Little Pony: A Zephyr Heights Mystery (Cloud, Console, Handheld, PC - January 15th): Catering to a younger audience and fans of the franchise, this title offers a charming and colorful adventure in the flying city of Zephyr Heights. It focuses on exploration, gentle puzzles, and accessible storytelling, providing a cozy and engaging experience for its intended demographic. While some mini-games might feel repetitive, it captures the spirit of My Little Pony well. Our review gave it a 4/5.

The Inevitable Cull: Games Leaving Game Pass

As new titles arrive, a familiar wave of departures is also on the horizon. On January 15th, five games will be leaving Xbox Game Pass, meaning players have a limited window to dive in and experience them:

This lineup includes some highly acclaimed titles like Neon White and The Ascent. Missing out on these gems before they depart would be a disservice to your gaming backlog.

A Glimpse Ahead: Resident Evil Village on the Horizon

Looking further out, the service is set to welcome even more significant titles. Mark your calendars for January 20th, when both the critically acclaimed Resident Evil Village and the intriguing JRPG Mio: Memories in Orbit are slated to join Game Pass. This continued influx of high-profile releases solidifies Game Pass's position as a dominant force in the subscription gaming space.

Our Analysis: A Bold Statement from Microsoft

This mid-January update is more than just a batch of new games; it's a statement of intent from Xbox Game Pass. Leading with a major AAA exclusive like Star Wars Outlaws is a significant move that will undoubtedly draw in new subscribers and retain existing ones. The addition of Quarantine Zone: The Last Check also shows a willingness to embrace unique, thought-provoking indie titles that offer distinct gameplay mechanics. While the departure of several well-regarded games is a common occurrence, it serves as a stark reminder for players to engage with the library proactively. For those with active subscriptions, this is a prime opportunity to explore new genres and experience critically acclaimed titles without additional cost. The sheer breadth and ambition of the service continue to impress, proving that Game Pass is not just a subscription, but a gateway to a vast and ever-expanding universe of gaming.

What will you be diving into first? Let us know in the comments below.