EA Sports UFC 5

Get ready to unleash your fury as EA Sports UFC 5 is now on the Play List for all EA Play members (conditions, limitations and exclusions apply – see here for details). Members can now step into the Octagon with their favorite MMA players for the most definitive MMA experience with authentic gameplay and graphics maximized for modern consoles. Alongside unlimited access to EA SPORTS UFC 5, EA Play members can score the Bruce Lee Bundle and play as Alter Egos of the father of MMA. The bundle is available to all members at no additional cost from January 14 through February 11.

Powered by the Frostbite Engine, EA Sports UFC 5 features the all-new Real Impact System, which elevates the stakes, technique, drama and excitement; players can feel every strike and deliver highlight-reel finishes bringing the intensity and strategy of a fight to life. The game’s advanced visuals and enriched gameplay, coupled with features like Cinematic K.O. Replays, Doctor’s Checks and Stoppages, Seamless Submissions and more, create an unparalleled MMA interactive experience, making EA Sports UFC 5 as real as it gets.

EA Sports Week

This month, the fight continues outside of the Octagon as Game Pass Ultimate subscribers can punch into EA Sports Week with a special, 90% off discount for UFC 5 Super Deluxe Edition! Members can celebrate EA Sports Week with friends as everyone will be able to access the EA Sports game collection, earn discounts on EA Sports games, get a Free Play weekend January 16-19, 2025 for all sports titles, and more. The celebration starts with the EA Sports FC 25’s ‘Team of the Year’ two-week activation and the addition of EA Sports UFC 5 to the Play List. 

January Rewards

If you thought that was it, you’re mistaken! The gifting continues this month for EA Play members as the new year brings new heart pumping action with all the great rewards, including:

• Apex Legends Feelin’ lucky? Weapon Charm – Now to February 3
• Battlefield 2042 Winter Series – Now to January 28
• EA Sports F1 24 5000 XP Boost – Now to January 31
• Madden NFL 25 MUT Pack – Now to January 31
• EA Sports FC 25 Black FC Mask & Clubs Coins – Now to January 30
• EA Sports FC 25 Football Ultimate Team Draft Token– Now to February 14
• EA Sports NHL 25 WOC Battle Pass XP Modifier Tokens – Now to January 30
• EA Sports NHL 25 3000 CHEL Coins – Now to January 30

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and Xbox Game Pass PC members receive EA Play with their Game Pass subscription. Members can experience the world of EA with unlimited access to a collection of top titles, trials of select new games, in-game member rewards, 10% on EA digital purchases and more. Members can unlock the thrill of their next favorite game with up to 10-hour trials of EA’s latest titles such as EA Sports FC 25, EA Sports NHL 25 EA Sports Madden NFL 25, EA Sports College Football 25, F1 24 and Dragon Age: The Veilguard, in addition toaccess to an unrivaled collection of EA’s best-loved series and top titles, including Madden NFL 24,EA Sports FC 24, EA Sports WRC and Star Wars Jedi: Survivor.

Visit the EA Play page for more details, and to stay up to date on the latest from EA Play, follow EA Play on, Instagram, or X. Please see EA.com/EA-Play/Terms for terms and conditions.

Dynasty Warriors is comfort food for me – Omega Force’s long-running series tells the same kingdom-spanning tale in with each instalment, always aiming to deliver on its “1v1000” combat conceit with each new game. Discovering the series with Dynasty Warriors 2, I’ve returned again and again over the last 25 years to see this huge cast of characters play their part in the same epic tale – developing favorites (hello, Guan Yu) along the way by sheer weight of time spent with them.

So it was with some curiosity that I started playing the 10^th mainline instalment. The title tells you what you need to know – Dynasty Warriors: Origins is going back to basics, a reinvention that goes beyond the incremental changes fans have been used to from most new versions of this series.

For a start, Origins tells a deeper, more focused story – in fact only telling the first half of the tale we’re used to, but with far more detail added along the way. Dynasty Warriors games series typically begin with players crushing the Yellow Turban Rebellion, a battle that sets the Romance of the Three Kingdoms – the semi-fictionalized historical tale of ancient China the games are based on – in motion. But Origins’ first chapter shows us the Yellow Turbans faction forming, becoming corrupted, and then being taken down. It’s an origin story for, well, the series’ traditional origin story.

As part of that, we’re also introduced to a brand new protagonist (who you can name); an amnesiac travelling warrior with a past that’s slowly revealed as you play. You’ll spend the majority of Dynasty Warriors: Origins playing as this character – perhaps the biggest marker that this game is making a major change. Where Dynasty Warriors games have previously had players pick from dozens of officers from across the many factions in this tale, you’re now leading this single character through a story that puts you on path to meet those familiar faces (some of whom will be playable along the way).

It’s a bold choice, worthy of a game looking to shake things up, and it certainly lends a different feeling to proceedings. While Origins drops the open world format of 2018’s Dynasty Warriors 9, having a single main character allows the developers to craft a more mutable Story Mode. Rather than moving from battle to battle with cutscenes in between, you’re now placed in an overworld between main levels, able to explore, find secrets, tinker with your loadout, meet and befriend officers, and take part in skirmishes to level up.

All of this speaks to a renewed focus on how combat works in Dynasty Warriors. While fans will be pleased to know that the bones of its classic hack ‘n’ slash action remain in place, there’s far more nuance on show here. Blocks, parries, and evades are far more necessary when taking on enemy bosses, miniature puzzle elements have been introduced to certain battles, and customizable Battle Art special abilities let you tinker with your playstyle for every weapon type.

This feels less like an experiment for an experiment’s sake, and more like a confident step forward – I’m still getting the familiar  feeling of being, effectively, a 2^nd-Century superhero, but the added level of thought required for each one-on-one fight along the way is meaningfully different.

And it’s that balance between old and new that defines Origins’ approach – this is recognizably Dynasty Warriors, but with new ideas slotted in place among that familiar framework. To put it another way – it’s still my comfort food, but with new ingredients.

DYNASTY WARRIORS: ORIGINS

KOEI TECMO AMERICA

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

$69.99

Pre-order

Pre-order bonus:
– Protagonist’s costume “Nameless Warrior Garb”
A “Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty” collaboration costume that can be worn in the game.
Note: Please be aware that this bonus may become available for purchase or for free at a later date.

Early purchase bonus:
– Early Works Soundtrack Collection (Digital Edition)
A soundtrack featuring a total of 191 original music tracks from the series, including background music from titles spanning from “DYNASTY WARRIORS 2” to “DYNASTY WARRIORS 5 Empires,” as well Omega Force’s first title, “DYNASTY WARRIORS.” The soundtrack can be played by accessing the main menu, Special Content, and then Music, and selecting “Early Works Soundtrack Collection.”
Note:
– The early purchase bonus will be available for those who pre-order or who purchase the game by January 30, 2025.
– The soundtrack includes content that is also available for purchase on music streaming sites. Please be aware that the bonus may become available for purchase or for free as add-on content for this title at a later date.

Become immersed in exhilarating battles as a nameless hero in the Three Kingdoms.

・ The most exhilarating action in the series’ history
Tension-filled battlefields where you clash against massive armies stretching as far as the eye can see. How will you handle the onslaught of enemies? Your military prowess will serve you well as you fight in tandem with your allies in tactical battles unique to the “DYNASTY WARRIORS” franchise and experience the most exhilarating action in the series’ history.

・ A new version of the Three Kingdoms from the perspective of an original protagonist
The story of the Three Kingdoms is set in the vast mainland of China where the convictions of different heroes intersect. Experience this magnificent and alluring world through the eyes of the original protagonist, a “nameless hero.”

Note: The product “DYNASTY WARRIORS: ORIGINS Digital Deluxe Edition” is also being sold. Please confirm that you have selected the correct product before making your purchase.
Note: Images are taken from an in-development build. The final product may differ from the footage shown.
Note: If an add-on finishes installing while the game is running, it will become available after you return to the title screen.

Next Week on Xbox highlights all the games arriving soon on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows, and Game Pass. Below are more details on these upcoming games, with links to their profiles for further information (release dates may change).

Beautiful Sakura: Surfing Club (Windows)

Cropware

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

Beautiful Sakura: Surfing Club (Windows) – January 15

Going in with low expectations, Kaito couldn’t believe it when he hit it off with the new girl at school, Michiko. But just as the two were getting to know each other, Kaito discovered that his new crush has a twin sister, Yuuki, and he begins to question everything he’s feeling. When Kaito finally comes to his senses, he realized that it may be too late. Who does Kaito end up choosing?

Perfect Ninja Painter 3

SilenGames

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

Perfect Ninja Painter 3 – January 15
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Perfect Ninja Painter 3 is a colorful puzzle platformer where players embark on a vibrant adventure with three ninja characters who must bring life and color to a world shrouded in gray. Armed with paintbrushes, the ninjas are tasked with coloring entire levels, solving puzzles, and overcoming obstacles that require a clever mix of creativity and strategy.

Runny Bunny – Console Edition

Eastasiasoft Limited

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

Runny Bunny – Console Edition – January 15
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Get ready for a fast and furry twist on puzzle action in side-scrolling pixel art platforming style! Play as a frantic little bunny as you dash between floors, walls and ceilings collecting power dots and yummy carrots.

Sokorobot

Afil Games

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

Sokorobot – January 15
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

A captivating puzzle game where you control an ingenious robot clearing and creating paths to reach the button that unlocks the next level. Combining classic puzzle mechanics with a futuristic setting, Sokorobot challenges players to think ahead and execute plans to conquer the levels.

SYNDUALITY Echo of Ada Deluxe Edition Pre-Order

Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc.

☆☆☆☆☆
5

★★★★★

$69.99

Pre-order

Synduality Echo of Ada (Deluxe and Ultimate Edition Early Access) – January 15
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

Taking place in the year 2222, years after a mysterious poisonous rain called The Tears of the New Moon wiped out most of humanity and birthed deformed creatures that now hunt the population. Amidst the calamity, humans are forced to build an underground haven to survive. Take on the role of a Drifter whose goal is to collect the rare resource known as AO Crystals. In your quest, you must collaborate with your artificial intelligence partner to face xenomorphic creatures known as Enders and survive the hazards on the surface.

Morkull Ragast’s Rage

Selecta Play

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

$17.99

Pre-order

Morkul Ragast’s Rage – January 16
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

A 2D video game that combines platforming and action with a touch of exploration, control Morkull, God of Death and Darkness and Lord of the Ragast. His main mechanic – breaking the fourth wall, which allows him to communicate with you in a multitude of ways.

Professor Doctor Jetpack

Roflcopter Ink GmbH

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

$9.99

Pre-order

Professor Doctor Jetpack – January 16
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Professor Doctor Jetpack is a physics based, pixel art, precision platformer, in which you embark on a dangerous journey to… control your jetpack. Join Albert Einstein’s digital remains on his whacky quest to save the world from hidden threats, like The Internet.

Vanity Fair: The Pursuit

NiuGamer

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

$14.99

Pre-order

Vanity Fair: The Pursuit – January 16
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery / Xbox Play Anywhere

A fictional real-life interactive narrative with the theme of life “choices” and “survival in the entertainment industry”. The background of the story takes place between 2004 and 2024 in an imaginary world view. The gambling agreement you signed to realize your movie dream will be gradually involved in the whirlpool of “Vanity Fair”. When you are in a dilemma, what should you do?

Cherry Tower Series X|S

Webnetic s. r. o.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

Cherry Tower – January 17
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

A charming 2D pixel platformer that will take you on a sweet adventure unlike any other! Join Cherry on her small adventure, climbing a tower to return home and maybe even more. Overcome obstacles and traps to achieve your goals.

DYNASTY WARRIORS: ORIGINS Digital Deluxe Edition

KOEI TECMO AMERICA

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

$89.99

Pre-order

Dynasty Warriors: Origins (Digital Deluxe Edition Early Access) – January 13
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

Become immersed in exhilarating battles as a nameless hero in the Three Kingdoms. Play upon tension-filled battlefields where you clash against massive armies stretching as far as the eye can see. Standard edition launches on January 17.

Hexa River

Omegga Interactive

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

Hexa River – January 17
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Immerse yourself in the tranquil world of Hexa River, where your task is to bring life to the islands by guiding water through intricate puzzles. With a relaxing soundtrack and stunning low-poly visuals, each level offers a satisfying challenge that will keep you engaged as you ensure the crops grow lush and healthy.

Tales of Graces f Remastered Pre-Order

Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

$39.99

Pre-order

Tales of Graces f Remastered – January 17
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Tales of Graces f is back with a beautiful and easier-to-play version in this action RPG about adventure in fantasy worlds and overcoming obstacles through friendship and determination. The game also includes Lineage and Legacies, an after-story to the main scenario.

Welcome to our first “Coming Soon” announcement for 2025! And special welcome to all you new friends that picked up gaming hardware the last few weeks. Let’s get you prepped for what to install or play next. To the games!

Available Today

Road 96 (Cloud, Console, and PC) – January 7
Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass, Game Pass Standard

Returning to the Game Pass library, Road 96 is a crazy, beautiful road-trip. On this risky road trip to the border, you’ll meet incredible characters and discover their intertwined stories and secrets in an ever-evolving adventure. But every mile opens a choice to make. Your decisions will change your adventure, change the people you meet, and maybe even change the world.

Coming Soon

Lightyear Frontier (Game Preview) (Xbox Series X|S) – January 8
Now with Game Pass Standard

Start your interstellar homestead in this peaceful open-world farming adventure! Build your sustainable exofarm, grow alien crops, customize your mech, and explore a new world full of mystery with up to three friends!  

My Time at Sandrock (Console) – January 8
Now with Game Pass Standard

Just like My Time at Portia, My Time at Sandrock takes place in a wholesome post-apocalyptic world 300 years after the Day of Calamity destroyed most modern technologies. Gather resources to build machines, befriend locals, and defend Sandrock from monsters — all while saving the town from economic ruin!

Robin Hood – Sherwood Builders (Xbox Series X|S) – January 8
Now with Game Pass Standard

Join Robin Hood and his unwavering band of outlaws in 12th-century England on their mission to free Nottingham. Travel across various regions, build up a secret hideout village and help the denizens of the surrounding lands. Complete quests, construct various builds, craft a broad range of items, and freely explore locations inspired by both myth and history in this open-world RPG with base-building features.

Rolling Hills (Console) – January 8
Now with Game Pass Standard

Serve sushi as a robot chef in Rolling Hills, a life sim about running your own restaurant in a cozy village. Make new friends, purchase ingredients, enhance your shop, and improve the lives of your neighbors as you perfect your craft!

EA Sports UFC 5 (Cloud and Xbox Series X|S) EA Play – January 14
Game Pass Ultimate

Unleash your fury  and get unlimited access to EA Sports UFC 5, coming to Game Pass Ultimate via EA Play. Plus, members can score the Bruce Lee Bundle and play as alter egos of the father of mixed martial arts, available at no additional cost in the Perks section from January 14 to February 11.

Diablo (PC) – January 14
Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass

Return to the legendary town of Tristram in Diablo, the groundbreaking action-RPG that defined the genre, coming to Game Pass on January 14! With its satisfying progression, deep character customization, and intense battles, Diablo delivers an unforgettable journey through a dark gothic fantasy world.

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Perks

New year, new Perks! Check the Game Pass section on your console, Xbox mobile app, or Xbox app on PC on a regular basis to find new in-game content, consumables, and offers included with your Game Pass Ultimate membership.

First Descendant Season 2: Ancestors Bundle – Available now
Play the next-generation looter shooter, The First Descendant, and elevate your experience with the exclusive Season 2: Ancestors Bundle! Customize your Descendants and weapons with unique styles and enhancements!

Vigor: Coast Guardian Pack – Available now
Beneath the shimmering northern lights on the frozen coast of Anniken, a silent lighthouse overlooks the Outlands. Gear up and carry the legacy of this iconic landmark into every battle with the Coast Guardian Pack.

Apex Legends: Feelin’ Lucky? Weapon Charm – Available now
Add some flair to your arsenal with the Feelin’ Lucky? Weapon Charm. Equip this to your favorite weapon and battle for glory, fame, and fortune in style.

Metaball: Punk Pack – January 7
Metaball is a free-to-play, crossplay-enabled multiplayer sports game with fast-paced action. The Punk Pack unlocks seven colorful and cool legendary outfits!

Leaving January 15

The following games are leaving the Game Pass library soon, so be sure to show them some love and jump in before they go. Remember to use your membership discount to save up to 20% to keep them in your library.

• Common’Hood (Cloud, Console, and PC)
• Escape Academy (Cloud, Console, and PC)
• Exoprimal (Cloud, Console, and PC)
• Figment (Cloud, Console, and PC)
• Insurgency Sandstorm (Cloud, Console, and PC)
• Those Who Remain (Cloud, Console, and PC)

We’ll be back to our usual twice monthly announcements, so keep tuned here and to Game Pass, PC Game Pass, and Xbox on social for all the updates on when “coming soon” turns into “available today” to play. Be back soon!