The Epic Games Store is starting 2026 with free offerings of Total War: Three Kingdoms and Wildgate, available until January 8. Amazon Prime Gaming is also providing a lineup of free games for subscribers throughout the month, beginning with Civilization 6. These promotions aim to bolster players' backlogs with strategy and shooter titles.
The Epic Games Store has transitioned from holiday promotions into the new year by offering two notable free games for PC users. Total War: Three Kingdoms, typically priced at $60, is available for claiming through the PC Fortnite launcher. This strategy title from the Total War series requires modest hardware, such as a GTX 650 equivalent graphics card, making it accessible for many players. It stands out as one of the franchise's strongest entries, promising extensive gameplay for those new to it.
Accompanying it is Wildgate, a sci-fi PvPvE multiplayer shooter developed by former Blizzard team members. The game blends elements reminiscent of Sea of Thieves in a space setting with MOBA features, though its reception has been mixed due to execution issues and declining player numbers on Steam. Both titles remain free only until January 8, urging quick claims.
Meanwhile, Amazon has unveiled its Prime Gaming freebies for January 2026, exclusive to paid subscribers. Starting immediately are Civilization 6 and Reflections of Life: Dark Architect Collector’s Edition. On January 15, subscribers can access Deathkeep, Brigador: Up-Armored Deluxe, and Gunslugs: Rogue Tactics. The January 22 batch includes Harold Halibut and D&D Stronghold: Kingdom Simulator, followed by Elderborn, Technotopia, and Al-Qadim: The Genie’s Curse on January 29.
Civilization 6 serves as a solid entry point for the 4X genre, especially given recent dissatisfaction with Civilization 7's launch last year. Brigador: Up-Armored Deluxe evokes classic top-down shooters like Jungle Strike, but centered on mechs. These offerings provide diverse options, from grand strategy to action-packed adventures, helping Prime members expand their libraries without additional cost.
