Weekend Loot: Rustler, FBC: Firebreak, and Steam Freebies for Jan 25, 2026

By ModVC Staff | Sunday, January 25, 2026

While half the world is tuning in to see the New England Patriots take on the Denver Broncos for the AFC Championship today, the rest of us are looking for something a little more interactive to close out the weekend. We are deep into January 2026, and the free-to-play ecosystem is thriving.

This weekend offers a chaotic mix of medieval mayhem, tactical simulation, and a high-profile shooter trial from Remedy Entertainment. Whether you are on PC or clutching an Xbox controller, here is everything you can play for free right now.

The Epic Games Store Headliner: Rustler

If you have ever looked at Grand Theft Auto 2 and thought, "This needs more lutes and cow manure," your prayers have been answered. The headline freebie on the Epic Games Store this week is Rustler (Grand Theft Horse).

Rustler is an open-world, top-down action game that pays homage to the old-school GTA style, but swaps the stolen sports cars for horses. You play as a medieval thug trying to win the Grand Tournament. It is historically inaccurate, incredibly silly, and absolutely free to keep if you claim it this week.

Also available via Epic (specifically highlighted for mobile users this week) is The Forest Quartet, a poignant 3D narrative puzzle game about a gone-but-not-forgotten lead singer.

Steam’s "Free to Keep" Gems

Valve's storefront is offering two distinct titles that you can add to your library permanently this weekend.

1. Crown Champion: Legends of the Arena: A management RPG where you run a gladiator school. It is less about the button-mashing combat and more about the economics of keeping your fighters alive.
2. Battle Simulator: Counter Stickman: Exactly what it says on the tin. If you enjoy the physics-based absurdity of battle simulators, this is a quick download to kill a few hours.

Quick Claim Guide

Free Play Weekends: FBC: Firebreak & Xbox

It hasn't been the easiest year for Remedy Entertainment, but they are looking to bounce back strong. Their latest multiplayer shooter, FBC: Firebreak, is currently hosting a Free-to-Play Weekend. Set in the Control universe, this is your chance to blast away the Hiss with friends without dropping cash on the full title. If the game resonates with you, these weekends usually come with a steep discount for the full purchase.

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members need to act fast. The "Free Play Days" lineup includes four full games, but the clock is ticking. As noted by OpenCritic, members have roughly 24 hours left (as of Sunday morning) to try these titles before they revert to paid status.

The 2026 Free-to-Play Landscape

This year is shaping up to be massive for frugal gamers. Content creators are already compiling lists of upcoming heavy hitters.

Check out these breakdowns of what else is coming down the pipe in 2026:

• PlayStationGrenade breaks down 20 free titles launching this year: Watch Here
• DCX Gaming highlights Steam games players are loving right now: Watch Here

Comparison: Free-to-Play vs. Free-to-Keep

It can be confusing distinguishing between a "Free Weekend" and a "Giveaway." Here is the breakdown for this week's offers:

ModVC Verdict

If you only have time for one download this Sunday, make it Rustler. It is a unique indie gem that captures a specific era of gaming nostalgia while adding its own medieval twist. For shooter fans, do not miss the Firebreak trial—it is the best way to benchmark performance on your rig before committing to a purchase.

Enjoy the games, and for those watching the football—good luck to your team.