Epic Games Store’s mystery giveaway train is rolling along, and this year’s Christmas slot might be another heavy hitter. With The Callisto Protocol currently up for grabs as the eighth free game, fans are already looking ahead to the ninth dropping on December 25 at 16:00 UTC. And based on Epic’s past behavior, expectations are riding high.

Epic Games Store follows a clear Christmas trend

This isn’t just wishful thinking. Each year, the store’s Christmas giveaway has leaned toward the big leagues titles with strong critical reception and a decent chunk of single-player content. Here’s what Epic has gifted on December 25 over the last five years:

• 2024: Control
• 2023: The Outer Worlds
• 2022: Death Stranding
• 2021: Prey
• 2020: Darkest Dungeon

Nothing here screams small-scale. That makes it unlikely we’ll see a pixel-art indie take the spotlight this time.

High hopes for a major title on December 25

Some gamers are betting on Redfall showing up next. It’s not on sale in the store, which lines up with Epic’s usual pre-giveaway behavior. Another name floating around is High on Life, a title that fits the “mid-tier AAA” bracket pretty well. Others are leaning toward Detroit: Become Human, which would mark a solid return to narrative-driven blockbusters.

The Callisto Protocol is live, for now

Until the ninth game unlocks, The Callisto Protocol remains free to claim. It’s a repeat from a past giveaway, which isn’t uncommon this deep into Epic’s holiday promo calendar. Still, fans are hanging onto the hope that the best is being saved for the big day itself.

Will Epic Games Store stick the landing?

Given its track record, Epic knows how to deliver when it counts. A weak Christmas giveaway would break a five-year streak of strong titles and the community would notice. There’s pressure, yes, but there’s also precedent. And that’s what’s keeping expectations high.

If Epic’s looking to keep its crown in the freebie arena, it needs to pull one more gem from the vault. We’ll find out soon enough.