Full Breakdown
Seven Games Set to Depart Xbox Game Pass by January 31, 2026
1/18/2026, 9:55:05 PM
Overview of Departing Titles
Microsoft has announced that seven games will be removed from Xbox Game Pass on January 31, 2026. These titles, which are currently marked as "leaving soon" in the official Xbox mobile app, include a mix of popular indie games and smaller titles, though none are major AAA releases. The games set to depart are:
- Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector (consoles, PC, cloud)
- Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders (consoles, PC, cloud)
- Cataclismo (PC)
- Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap (consoles, PC, cloud)
- PAW Patrol World (consoles, PC, cloud)
- Shady Part of Me (consoles, PC, cloud)
- Starbound (consoles, PC, cloud)
Subscribers can purchase these games at a discount of at least 20% until their removal, with potential for further reductions if included in January sales.
Context of Game Removals
The removal of these titles is part of Microsoft's ongoing strategy to refresh its Xbox Game Pass library. While none of the departing games are considered major blockbusters, several have garnered positive reception. For instance, Citizen Sleeper 2 was a contender for Game of the Year in 2025, and Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders received a Metacritic score of 87. The decision to remove these games, particularly four that were released in 2025, highlights the transient nature of the Game Pass catalog.
Implications for Subscribers
The departure of these games may impact subscribers who have enjoyed them since their addition to the service. The likelihood of these titles returning to Game Pass remains uncertain, as they are smaller games that may not be prioritized for reintroduction. The removal also emphasizes the importance for subscribers to stay informed about the changing library to make timely purchase decisions.
Official Statements & Responses
Microsoft has not issued specific comments regarding the rationale behind the removal of these games. However, the company typically emphasizes the value of its subscription service, which includes regular updates and new titles to keep the library fresh and engaging for users.
Criticism & Opposition
Some gamers express disappointment over the removal of titles that have become favorites within the community. Critics argue that the frequent turnover of games can lead to frustration among subscribers who may not have had enough time to fully explore or enjoy the departing titles.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Until each of these seven Xbox Game Pass games depart, each is available to subscribers to purchase outright with a special and exlcusive 20% discount.” — Source: ComicBook
- “Individiaully, none of the seven departures are very noteworthy, but losing seven games all in the same day makes the round of removals noteworthy.” — Source: ComicBook
As the January 31 deadline approaches, subscribers are encouraged to consider their options regarding these games, especially with the discounts available until their removal.
