PlayStation Opens 2026 PlayStation Plus Essential with Need for Speed Unbound, Disney Epic Mickey Rebrushed, and Core Keeper

PlayStation has officially revealed the full PlayStation Plus Essential monthly games lineup for January 2026, confirming that Need for Speed Unbound is joined by Disney Epic Mickey Rebrushed and Core Keeper to kick off the new year. The announcement arrives right after early reporting pointed to Need for Speed Unbound as the headliner, and the final lineup reinforces a clean three game structure for Essential after December 2025 delivered a larger batch.

In terms of lineup identity, this is a well balanced spread that targets distinct player segments without overlapping too heavily. Need for Speed Unbound anchors the month as the recognizable modern racing pick, a clear grab for players who want a fast start to 2026 with a big name console racer. Disney Epic Mickey Rebrushed is the nostalgia plus polish play, bringing a refreshed version of a cult favorite style experience that many players either missed the first time or have wanted to revisit in a more modern package. Core Keeper provides the long tail option, supporting cooperative play for 1 to 8 players and offering the kind of progression driven loop that can carry groups through January sessions.

All three titles will be available to redeem starting 01 06 2026. PlayStation also confirms that players have until 01 05 2026 to redeem the December 2025 Essential titles, so anyone who has not claimed those should treat this as the final call before the window closes.

Which January 2026 Essential pick is the real win for you, the high speed racing of Need for Speed Unbound, the remastered charm of Disney Epic Mickey Rebrushed, or the long session cooperative grind of Core Keeper?