Fri Jan 02 09:10:00 UTC 2026: Okay, here’s a summary and a rewritten news article based on the text:

Summary:

A reliable source has leaked that Need for Speed Unbound will be one of the free games offered to PlayStation Plus Essential members in January 2026. While the game itself is well-received, the decision to include it has sparked debate among subscribers. Some are unhappy because the game was previously available in the higher-tier Extra/Premium catalog and is currently heavily discounted on the PlayStation Store. Need for Speed Unbound Ultimate Edition will be pulled from sale a few days after the start of availability on PS Plus Essential.

News Article:

Need for Speed Unbound Leaked as PS Plus Essential Free Game for January 2026, Dividing Subscribers

By [Your Name]

[City, State] – A new year is approaching, but a reliable source has revealed that Need for Speed Unbound will be one of the free titles offered to PlayStation Plus Essential subscribers in January 2026. The leak comes from Dealabs insider billbil-kun, known for accurate PlayStation leaks.

While the addition of a AAA title like Need for Speed Unbound would typically be cause for celebration, the news has sparked mixed reactions among PS Plus Essential members. Released in 2022, Need for Speed Unbound holds a respectable Metacritic score of 77/100.

Some subscribers are questioning the choice given that Need for Speed Unbound was previously available through the higher-tier PS Plus Extra and Premium catalogs. Others have pointed to the game’s current steep discount on the PlayStation Store. The Need for Speed Unbound Ultimate Edition, including add-ons and DLC, is currently offered at an 85% discount ($12.74). The offer is only available until January 8. It will be pulled from sale a few days after the start of availability on PS Plus Essential.

PlayStation hasn’t yet made an official announcement. Sony is expected to reveal the full January 2026 PlayStation Plus Essential lineup later today. Whether the controversy will impact subscriber sentiment remains to be seen. But it highlights the challenge of satisfying a diverse player base with varying subscription levels and purchase histories.

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