Game On

8 incredible games coming to Xbox Game Pass in January 2022

Is the best deal in gaming getting even better!?

by Robin Bea

EA

Xbox Game Pass is proving its worth early in 2022. This month, subscribers get a recent AAA remaster and a trove of unmissable indie gems.

Here are the first 8 games coming to Xbox Game Pass in January 2022.

8. Gorogoa

January 4 (Cloud, Console, PC)

Gorogoa’s designer describes the game as “like playing Myst, but four times simultaneously.” It’s a wholly unique game about manipulating hand-drawn art to solve puzzles — and it’s as captivating as it is hard to describe.

7. Olija

January 4 (Cloud, Console, and PC)

In the side-scrolling action game Olija, you use an enchanted harpoon as both a weapon and a way to zip around its gorgeous pixel art environments.

6. The Pedestrian

January 4 (Cloud, Console, PC)

The Pedestrian is a 2D platformer with a twist, playing out across levels made up of interconnected street signs.

5. Embr

January 6 (Cloud, Console, PC)

In the chaotic multiplayer Embr, you play as the depressing conclusion of the gig economy — a contractor working for a firefighting app. It’s like Uber for not having your house burn down!

4. Mass Effect Legendary Edition

January 6 (Console, PC)

If you skipped last year’s Mass Effect Legendary Edition, now’s your chance to check out the remastered version of the classic sci-fi trilogy.

3. Outer Wilds

January 6 (Cloud, Console, PC)

Time loops were the hottest thing in gaming in 2021, but Outer Wilds got there two years early. This space exploration puzzle game is a mind-bending journey like nothing else out there.

2. Spelunky 2

January 13 (Console, PC)

The sequel to one of the best roguelikes ever was overshadowed by Hades in 2020. It’s still definitely worth a look, and now there’s no reason not to try it.

1. The Anacrusis (Game Preview)

January 13 (Console, PC)

The Anacrusis is a co-op horde shooter in the vein of Left 4 Dead but set on a spaceship with a swinging ‘60s sci-fi vibe.