Xbox Game Pass’ First January 2026 Games Officially Confirmed

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I’m already thinking about what’s coming to Xbox Game Pass, even though it’s still early December! They usually give us a little sneak peek, and it’s happening again. Good news for those of us who are curious – a couple of games coming in January 2026 have been announced!

PureXbox reports that two new games are coming to Xbox Game Pass in January: Nova Roma and MIO: Memories In Orbit. Both will be released later in the month, and we expect more game announcements soon. These two games offer very different experiences in terms of how they play and look, but both appear to be quite engaging. You can watch trailers for both games below.

Xbox Game Pass Gets Two New Games In January

Gamers can first play MIO: Memories In Orbit with Xbox Game Pass. This Hollow Knightinspired Metroidvania launches on January 20, 2026, followed by Nova Roma on January 22, 2026. Nova Roma* is a city-building game set in ancient Rome where you’ll manage your city by keeping the gods happy, creating laws, and building efficient systems to support your people.

Nova Roma appears to be a visually engaging city-builder similar to Anno. It’s developed by Hooded Horse, the publisher of the well-received Manor Lords, which many at ScreenRant enjoyed. If you like Anno, or are looking for an alternative to Civilization 7, Nova Roma is worth keeping an eye on when it launches.

MIO: Memories In Orbit Could Fill The Silksong Void

Both Nova Roma and MIO: Memories In Orbit look like great games, but MIO is particularly intriguing. It involves exploring a ship called the Vessel, discovering old technology, and battling your way through stunning, animated environments. If you enjoyed Hollow Knight and are now looking for something similar after finishing Silksong, MIO could be perfect.

As a Game Pass subscriber, I’m really excited about the December games! We’re getting new releases like Marvel Cosmic Invasion on day one, plus bigger titles like Mortal Kombat 1. It looks like there’s going to be tons to play to hold us over until the January lineup arrives.

It’s still early to say exactly how good Nova Roma and MIO: Memories In Orbit will be, but the trailers are encouraging. Since both games are launching at the end of January, we anticipate more news about Xbox Game Pass before they become available on the service. We’ll likely have a clearer picture as we get closer to the new year.

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2025-12-16 17:19