PlayStation Plus Kicks Off 2026 Strong With Need for Speed Unbound and Epic Mickey Rebrushed

The new year has barely started, and PlayStation Plus is already handing out gifts like it’s trying to win back the relatives it forgot to call over the holidays. January 2026’s lineup has officially arrived, and while it’s not the flashiest trio Sony has ever offered, it’s a surprisingly eclectic mix that covers racing fans, nostalgia hunters, and cozy‑game enjoyers all at once.

According to Sony’s announcement, PlayStation Plus subscribers across all tiers can now claim Need for Speed Unbound, Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed, and Core Keeper as part of the monthly Essential offerings. It’s a return to the standard three‑game format after December’s unusually generous five‑game spread, but hey — quality over quantity, right?

Let’s break down what players can expect from each title and why this month’s lineup is sparking both excitement and debate.

Need for Speed Unbound Speeds Into PlayStation Plus

Headlining January’s PlayStation Plus lineup is Need for Speed Unbound, Criterion’s stylish 2022 entry in the long‑running racing franchise. Polygon describes it as a “breath of fresh air for racing fans,” praising its focus on building up a single car rather than overwhelming players with constant unlocks.

The game blends street‑racing grit with graffiti‑inspired visual flair, giving every drift and boost a splash of animated personality. It’s flashy, fast, and surprisingly grounded — at least until the cops show up and turn your peaceful joyride into a full‑blown chase sequence.

For PlayStation Plus subscribers, this is a solid get. Even if the Need for Speed series has had its ups and downs, Unbound remains one of its more confident modern entries. And considering the franchise is currently on ice, this might be the perfect time to revisit what made it fun in the first place.

Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed Brings Nostalgia to 2026

Next up is Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed, a remake of the beloved Wii classic that once convinced an entire generation that Mickey Mouse could, in fact, be a little chaotic. The remaster gives the game a modern coat of paint while preserving its quirky charm — including the paint‑and‑thinner mechanic that lets players literally reshape the world.

Sony’s official blog highlights the game as part of the January lineup, offering PS4 and PS5 players a chance to revisit Wasteland with smoother controls and updated visuals. For longtime fans, it’s a nostalgia trip. For newcomers, it’s a reminder that Mickey used to star in more than just theme park commercials and Kingdom Hearts cameos.

And honestly, who doesn’t want to start the year by accidentally erasing half a cartoon village because they got carried away with thinner?

Core Keeper Adds Cozy Chaos to PlayStation Plus

Rounding out the trio is Core Keeper, the indie co‑op mining sandbox that blends exploration, crafting, and dungeon‑delving into one surprisingly addictive package. DualShockers notes that the January lineup is “modest” compared to December, but Core Keeper stands out as the kind of game that quietly eats your free time like a pixelated black hole.

Whether you’re digging tunnels with friends, farming slimes, or accidentally unleashing a boss you were absolutely not prepared for, Core Keeper offers the kind of cozy chaos that pairs perfectly with winter gaming sessions.

For PlayStation Plus subscribers who enjoy survival crafting games — or who simply want something relaxing after outrunning cops in Need for Speed — this is a welcome addition.

A Mixed Reaction From the PlayStation Plus Community

As always, the PlayStation Plus lineup has sparked debate. CNET reports that some subscribers on Reddit feel the January offerings are underwhelming, with one user joking that disappointment has become “expected”. Others, however, are happy to see a diverse spread of genres rather than three similar titles.

It’s the eternal PlayStation Plus paradox: no matter what Sony offers, someone will call it the best month ever, and someone else will compare it to a trash bag GIF. At least this time, the variety is undeniable.

A Solid Start to 2026 for PlayStation Plus

January’s PlayStation Plus lineup may not be a blockbuster trio, but it’s a well‑rounded selection that offers something for nearly every type of player. Racing fans get a stylish speed fix, platformer lovers get a polished remake, and cozy‑game enthusiasts get a mining adventure that’s easy to sink hours into.