• **January 2026 Game of the Month Campaign Kicks Off:** Push Square launches its community-driven poll for the standout PS5 titles of the opening month.
  • **Cairn Dominates Early Voting:** The tactical mountain climbing experience secures a commanding 38% of the initial votes for January's top PS5 game.
  • **Trails beyond the Horizon a Strong Contender:** Falcom's latest JRPG entry captures a significant 29% of player preference.
  • **Free-to-Play Titles Make Their Mark:** Both 2XKO (7%) and Arknights: Endfield (12%) prove popular entries in the PS5 lineup.
  • **Mixed Reception for Soulslike and Ambitious RPG:** Code Vein 2 (12%) and Highguard (2%) struggle to find widespread favor in the early poll.
  • **Voting Deadline:** Community input closes on Monday, February 9th, 2026, at 00:00 GMT.

January 2026: A Quiet Start, But Clear PS5 Contenders Emerge

Alright, gamers, let's talk about January 2026. While Push Square rightly flags it as a "somewhat quiet opening month" for PS5 releases, our initial read of their Game of the Month poll reveals some genuinely compelling insights into what's resonating with players. It's not just about the big launches; it's about what truly sticks.

Community Crowns a Climber: Cairn Takes the Lead

Our top takeaway from the early voting? The meditative yet challenging tactical mountain climber, Cairn, has absolutely crushed it, seizing a whopping 38% of the votes. This is a game that clearly struck a chord with players looking for something different, proving that innovation and a unique premise can triumph even in a quieter month. We're seeing a clear appetite for titles that offer a distinct experience beyond the usual genre fare.

JRPG Powerhouse Holds Strong: Trails beyond the Horizon

Coming in as a very solid runner-up with 29% is Falcom's latest, Trails beyond the Horizon. As a long-awaited JRPG from a massive series, its strong performance isn't entirely surprising. Push Square itself noted it as an "especially strong entry in the current saga," and the community seems to wholeheartedly agree. It's a testament to the enduring appeal and quality of this franchise.

The Free-to-Play Factor: 2XKO and Arknights: Endfield

January also saw two free-to-play powerhouses hit PS5. Arknights: Endfield, a gacha RPG, snagged a respectable 12% of the votes, particularly resonating with fans of the genre. Meanwhile, the "high quality fighter" 2XKO garnered 7%. Our take? This highlights the increasing relevance and quality of the F2P model on consoles. These aren't just filler; they're genuinely good games that are finding their audience.

Mixed Signals and Missed Opportunities

Not every title hit the mark. While many were likely looking forward to it, Code Vein 2, the Soulslike sequel, only managed 12% of the votes, matching Arknights: Endfield. Push Square candidly admitted they "didn't really gel" with its "bloody anime action," suggesting it might be a more niche appeal than anticipated. And then there's Highguard, which struggled significantly, pulling in just 2%. Given Push Square's mention of "ongoing concerns over its staying power," this low poll performance isn't entirely unexpected and raises questions about its long-term viability.

Cast Your Vote, Gamer

This poll is still wide open for your input, and we encourage you to make your voice heard. What was your pick for January 2026? Voting for Push Square's PS5 Game of the Month closes on **Monday, February 9th, 2026, at 00:00 GMT**. Let's see if Cairn can hold its lead, or if a late surge propels another title to the top spot!