21 most anticipated games of 2026

2025 had a lot of great game releases, but 2026 looks like it will be an even bigger year. With highly anticipated games like GTA 6 possibly launching and FromSoftware bringing a game to the new Nintendo Switch 2, gamers have a lot to look forward to.

No matter what kind of games you enjoy – whether it’s action-packed fighting games or games you can play again and again like roguelikes – there are already tons of options available.

After a long 13-year wait, we’re finally expecting GTA 6 to release, barring any unexpected setbacks. Capcom also looks set to be a major player this year with several big-name games covering a range of genres, from science fiction to horror. And as we saw with the surprise hit Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 in 2025, sometimes the most memorable games are the ones we least expect.

21. Invincible VS

Release date: May 1, 2026
Developers: Quarter Up & Skybound Games
Genre: Fighting game

Invincible characters clash in intense 3v3 battles where the goal is to defeat your opponents. Staying true to the violent and action-packed style of the comic book and Prime Video show, the game features voice acting from many of the original cast members.

We’re excited about Invincible VS because we’ve played it and believe it’s going to be one of the best fighting games of 2026. The game features a powerful cast of heroes and villains, and mastering their unique moves during battles is incredibly rewarding.

3v3 matches create some wild and unpredictable team-ups, making the game surprisingly complex. Plus, it’s incredibly over-the-top and satisfyingly violent – sending opponents flying has never felt better! Fighting game fans definitely shouldn’t skip Invincible VS.

20. Mewgenics

Release date: February 11, 2026
Developer: Edmund McMillen & Tyler Glaiel
Genre: Roguelike strategy game

Mewgenics is a new tactical RPG created by the designer of The Binding of Isaac. First revealed in 2012 as a potential successor to Super Meat Boy, the game revolves around breeding cats with unique abilities and stats. During the day, you’ll focus on breeding, and at night, you’ll take your feline creations into dungeons to battle, explore, and make them even stronger.

After more than ten years since the release of The Binding of Isaac – a game many players still enjoy daily – its creator, Edmund McMillen, is aiming to create another hit, and this time, he’s planning to make it even more substantial.

The way cats are bred in the game creates a lot of variety – not just in how they look, but also in their combat abilities. For example, breeding a healer cat with an archer cat could result in an archer that also has healing skills. But breeding isn’t always predictable, and there’s a chance your best cats might be defeated before they can pass on their traits. This creates a compelling loop, similar to games like The Binding of Isaac, where you could theoretically play forever in the pursuit of the ultimate team of cats.

19. Blood Of The Dawnwalker

Release date: TBD 2026
Developer: Bandai Namco
Genre: Action, RPG, Adventure, Fighting

Blood of Dawnwalker is a dark fantasy adventure game set in 14th-century Europe, during the time of the Black Death. You play as someone who transforms from a human by day into a vampire by night, and must balance both lives while fighting to protect your family and reveal dark secrets. You can embrace your monstrous side or strive to remain a hero – the path you take is up to you.

I’m seriously excited about this game! The idea of playing a super-strong vampire, needing to feed on blood, and having wicked claws while running around 14th-century Europe just sounds amazing. But knowing it’s made by the director of The Witcher 3, and that it’s packed with tons of different monsters to fight? That takes it to a whole other level – it’s going to be a terrifyingly good time!

The game features a dynamic day-night cycle, a story that changes based on your decisions, large-scale battles against diverse monsters using a wide range of weapons, and a vast open world that will especially appeal to those who enjoy historical settings or the Witcher series.

18. Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight

Release date: May 30, 2026
Developer: TT Games
Genre: Action-adventure

As a huge Batman fan, I’m so excited about Lego Legacy of the Dark Knight! It looks like they’re taking the best parts of all the Batman stories – the movies, the cartoons, even the comics – and mashing them together into one brand new adventure. And it’s still a Lego game, so you know it’s going to be funny! Expect plenty of action, puzzles, and those classic Lego cutscenes with hilarious moments and character banter.

We’re excited about this new Lego game because it looks like the best one yet! Combining characters and stories from all of Batman’s history is a brilliant idea. With so many villains, heroes, and different versions of Batman, it will be fascinating to see how everything comes together into a single, unified story.

The game takes place in a massive, open-world version of Gotham City. You’ll get to drive iconic Batmobiles and Batcycles throughout the city’s criminal districts, and it’s going to be a lot of fun.

17. Saros

Release date: April 30, 2026
Developer: Housemarque
Genre: Third-person bullet hell roguelike

Saros is a new third-person shooter from the creators of Returnal, sharing a similar fast-paced, challenging style. Like Returnal, it combines intense shooting with roguelike elements, meaning each attempt to play will be different. Expect a tough experience – you’ll likely die often as you try to solve a new mystery on the planet Carcosa.

We loved Returnal when it came out in 2021, calling it a must-play game for the PS5, and it still stands up as one of the best games only available on PlayStation. Now, with Saros, the developers are aiming to improve on Returnal’s amazing graphics, addictive gameplay, and intriguing story.

Rahul Kohli plays the main character, Arjun Devarj, and Jane Perry, known from Returnal, appears in a new, intriguing role. However, compelling characters are just the beginning. Returnal stood out because of its tight shooting and fast-paced movement within a dynamic game world. Because of these strengths and more, Saros promises to be another essential game for PS5 owners.

16. 007 First Light

Release date: May 26, 2026
Developer: IO Interactive
Genre: Action

Project 007 is a new game that lets you experience the early days of James Bond as he works his way up the ranks. You can play the game using stealth or a more action-packed approach.

We’re excited about this game because IO Interactive, the studio behind the Hitman series, is developing it. They’ve spent years creating games very similar to James Bond adventures, so they’re a perfect fit for the license.

We’ve seen glimpses of exciting action, but what really stands out is the freedom to tackle missions however you choose. You’ll have options for how to approach challenges, leading to unique gameplay experiences. Plus, with a new Bond film still a ways off, this game offers a fresh story to enjoy.

15. Onimusha: Way of the Sword

Release date: TBD 2026
Developer: Capcom
Genre: Action

Way of the Sword is the newest installment in the Onimusha series after a 20-year gap. It’s a third-person action game centered around sword fighting. When you defeat enemies, you can absorb their energy to regain health or improve your abilities. Like previous Onimusha games, Way of the Sword features many challenging boss battles, so be prepared for a tough fight in this fantasy version of Japan.

Fans have been eagerly awaiting a new Onimusha game for 20 years! It’s amazing to think the last major installment came out on the PlayStation 2.

Combat is fast-paced, requiring quick reflexes to block attacks and then strike back. Boss fights remain incredibly challenging, and even defeating smaller enemies doesn’t guarantee safety – a single powerful foe can still send you reeling. Onimusha offers a classic hack-and-slash experience that feels unique and we’re excited to revisit it with this updated version.

14. Gears of War: E-Day

Release Date: TBD 2026
Developer: The Coalition, People Can Fly
Genre: Third-person shooter

Gears of War: E-Day is the sixth main game in the popular action series, and it’s a prequel set 14 years before the original. The story focuses on how iconic characters Marcus Fenix and Dom Santiago became friends, and shows the beginning of the Locust invasion that nearly wiped out humanity.

We’re excited for this game because the Gears of War series consistently sets a high standard for third-person shooters. The developers are aiming for a more straightforward, story-driven experience like the earlier games, and they’re bringing back the horror elements that made the series so intense. They want the Locust enemies to feel truly frightening again.

From what we’ve seen, E-Day looks set to be a heartfelt tribute to the Gears of War universe and its dedicated fans. Get ready to fight – a major conflict is on the horizon, so make sure your weapons are prepared!

13. Pragmata

Release date: April 24, 2026
Developer: Capcom
Genre: Action-adventure puzzler

Okay, so this game looks amazing! It’s a third-person action game where you play as Hugh, a real person, and Diana, who’s an android. They have to team up and solve puzzles while fighting, and the whole story takes place on the moon as they try to stop a dangerous AI. It sounds like a really cool mix of action and brainpower!

We’re excited about Pragmata because it offers a truly unique gameplay experience. Unlike most games where combat focuses on quick reflexes, Pragmata challenges you to think strategically about positioning and puzzle-solving, even during intense close-quarters fights.

The game features fast-paced hacking challenges where quick thinking is crucial – not only to protect yourself, but also your android partner, Diana. The story explores how this unlikely pair teamed up, their journey to return home, and the origins of the dangerous AI that threatens them, and we’re excited for players to discover these secrets.

12. Slay The Spire 2

Release date: TBD March, 2026
Developer: Mega Crit
Genre: Deck-building roguelike

Slay the Spire 2 is the sequel to the popular 2019 game, offering new characters, powerful items, tough enemies, and a huge collection of cards. Each playthrough is unique as you climb the Spire, building a powerful deck along the way. No two runs are ever the same!

We’re excited about the sequel because the original Slay the Spire is considered one of the all-time best roguelike games. Players have spent countless hours enjoying the 2019 release, and the new installment looks just as fantastic.

Adding more cards unlocks a ton of new ways to build your deck and play the game, and new characters will let you try completely different strategies. What worked well in one playthrough might not be effective in the next, keeping things fresh and challenging. After seven years, we’re excited to see how Mega Crit continues to improve on its successful formula. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself completely hooked and losing track of time – you’ve been warned!

11. Fable

Release date: TBD 2026
Developer: Playground Games
Genre: RPG, Adventure

I’m so excited about Fable! It’s the fourth game in the series, and it’s been a while – the last one came out in 2012. It’s set in Albion, which looks gorgeous and has that classic Fable British sense of humor – things are usually pretty lighthearted. But don’t get me wrong, it’s not all fun and games! You’ll have to make some really tough decisions and battle some seriously powerful foes, using either magic or whatever weapons you prefer.

The original Fable games quickly gained a dedicated fanbase thanks to their immersive worlds, engaging combat, meaningful choices, and compelling stories – qualities shared by popular games like Skyrim and Fallout. So, the announcement of a new Fable for modern consoles, promising the beautiful environments seen in Playground Games’ Forza series, has created a lot of excitement. We’re eager to return to the world of Albion with a fresh experience that still captures everything we loved about the earlier titles.

10. Forza Horizon 6

Release date: TBD 2026
Developer: Playground Games
Genre: Racing game

Forza Motorsport’s latest installment is a return to the Horizon series after five years, focusing on fun, arcade-style racing. This time, players will race through the vibrant, neon-lit streets of Tokyo and explore Japan.

Forza Horizon 5 has become a standout title, even surpassing the original Forza Motorsport in popularity. It’s a thrilling and visually stunning game, making it a great choice for anyone, even if they aren’t fans of racing.

We’re excited to see what Playground Games does with the next Forza game. While there have been many Forza titles over the years, this one is special – it’s the first one set in Japan, and we’re really looking forward to experiencing the unique setting.

9. Subnautica 2

Release date: TBD 2026
Developer: Unknown Worlds
Genre: Survival, open-world adventure

Subnautica 2 is the highly anticipated sequel to the popular underwater survival game. It takes place on a different alien ocean planet and introduces cooperative multiplayer for the first time, letting you explore and survive with friends. You’ll gather resources, construct customizable bases, and venture into dangerous underwater environments. The new game features a unique story, diverse landscapes, and terrifying new creatures, but you can still enjoy the experience on your own if you prefer.

What excites us about this game: Subnautica 2 really nails the feeling of being scared of what’s hidden beneath the surface, especially when you’re swimming in complete darkness and know something huge could be lurking below. This time around, the main appeal – exploring the massive ocean – is even better because you can experience the thrills and scares with friends.

The sequel offers much more than just a repeat of what you already know. Players will be coordinating deep-sea missions, managing shared bases, discovering a new alien planet, and even escaping massive, dangerous creatures – all together.

8. Marvel 1943: The Rise of Hydra

Release Date: TBC 2026
Developer: Skydance
Genre: Action Adventure

This action-adventure game is the first of two major Marvel releases this year, and it’s based on the Captain America / Black Panther comic, ‘Flags of Our Fathers.’ The story is set during World War II, a year after Steve Rogers first became Captain America. Players can choose to play as Captain America, Azzuri (T’Challa’s grandfather and the Black Panther), Gabriel Jones from the Howling Commandos, or Nanali, the head of Wakanda’s spy network. This unique team works together to prevent the resurgence of Hydra.

2026 promises to be a huge year for Marvel fans, with major movie releases like Avengers Doomsday and Spider-Man: Brand New Day. But the upcoming game, Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra, is generating a lot of buzz too. A key reason is the team behind it – it’s the first game developed by Skydance Games, a new studio led by Amy Hennig, the creative force behind the critically acclaimed Uncharted series.

Seeing Captain America and Black Panther fight Hydra soldiers in World War II promises a lot of exciting action. However, Captain America has a long way to go to match Nathan Drake’s incredible number of defeated enemies – especially considering events like the Battle of Sokovia!

7. The Duskbloods

Release date: TBD 2026
Developer: FromSoftware
Genre: Action RPG

Okay, so FromSoftware – the team behind Elden Ring and Dark Souls – is making something new for the Switch 2! It’s a multiplayer game where up to eight of us can play together, battling each other in PvP, or teaming up against the game itself in PvE. Honestly, I have no idea what to expect, and that’s what’s got me so hyped! It’s a bit different for them, and I’m really curious to see how it turns out.

FromSoftware was already known as a top game developer, but the success of Elden Ring in 2022 has made all their new games highly anticipated. We’re especially excited about The Duskbloods, not just because it’s coming to the new Nintendo Switch 2, but also because it’s a departure from their usual style, focusing entirely on multiplayer gameplay.

Elden Ring Nightreign showcased FromSoftware’s multiplayer capabilities in 2025, and their next game, The Duskbloods, will build on that with more familiar modes. One of these modes is similar to a Battle Royale, where the last player remaining wins.

6. Control Resonant

Release date: TBD 2026
Developer: Remedy Entertainment
Genre: Action-adventure

Okay, so this is the next game from the creators of Control, but it’s a bit different. It continues the story from the first game, but instead of playing as Jesse Faden, you play as her brother, Dylan. And get this – it’s switched up from shooting to mostly melee combat, and the whole thing takes place in a seriously messed-up version of New York City!

What excites us about this is that Remedy Entertainment is creating a really captivating universe in their games. They’re subtly connecting different games together, similar to how Marvel connects its movies, leaving players eager to discover how the story unfolds.

After a long wait, we finally know what Remedy Entertainment is working on next, and it’s scheduled for release in 2026. The new Control game will take the action outside the familiar Oldest House and into the streets of Manhattan, where players will fight to stop an invasion. Staying true to their style, Remedy is creating something visually distinct from their previous games, and we’re confident it will be a top contender for game of the year.

5. Resident Evil Requiem

Release date: February 27, 2026
Developer: Capcom
Genre: Horror

Despite the destruction of Raccoon City, the infection continues to spread. FBI analyst Grace Ashcroft and Leon Kennedy team up to investigate and uncover a new mystery. Grace experiences the horror through tense survival sequences, while Leon faces it with more action-oriented gameplay.

We’re excited about Requiem because it seems to be successfully blending the styles of both classic and modern Resident Evil games. Leon’s gameplay feels reminiscent of the action-packed Resident Evil 4, while Grace’s style is more in line with the newer, atmospheric horror of Resident Evil 7 and Village.

Finding the right mix of suspense and action could make this one of the strongest installments yet. Even with plenty of fast-paced fighting, the action scenes will still be genuinely scary. The filmmakers are experts at building tension and delivering true horror.

4. Marvel’s Wolverine

Release date: TBD 2026
Developer: Insomniac Games
Genre: Superhero action adventure

Okay, so this new Marvel game is from the same team that made the amazing Spider-Man games – the first one, Spider-Man 2, and the Miles Morales one. This time, they’re letting me play as Wolverine! I’m talking full-on Logan, with his healing factor and those indestructible adamantium claws. It looks like I’ll be slashing, hacking, and climbing through some seriously beautiful environments as I try to figure out what happened to him before he became Weapon X. I’m really excited to uncover his past!

We’re excited about this game because Insomniac Games has a fantastic track record – they made three of the best Spider-Man games ever. Now, they’re turning their attention to Wolverine, and it looks incredible! The trailer shows a suitably gritty and violent game, packed with references that Marvel comic fans will love.

His mysterious past is perfect for a captivating story, and we’re eager to explore it. Get ready for some serious intrigue!

3. Crimson Desert

Release date: March 20, 2026
Developer: Pearl Abyss
Genre: Open world action-adventure

Crimson Desert is a new single-player game from the creators of the popular online game, Black Desert Online. It’s an expansive open-world RPG set in a medieval world called Pywel, where you can choose your own adventure – whether that means battling huge creatures or simply enjoying a peaceful life as a fisherman. The game offers a lot of freedom and lets you play at your own speed.

We’ve been eagerly anticipating Crimson Desert ever since it was first shown in 2020, and every new look at the game has increased our excitement. It’s a huge, ambitious open-world title offering incredible freedom in how you play. You can travel by dragon, fight in a mech suit with a jetpack, or choose from many other options – the game actively encourages this kind of creativity! We got a hands-on preview at Gamescom, and if the final product lives up to its promise, it could easily be one of the top games of 2026.

2. Phantom Blade Zero

Release date: September 9, 2026
Developer: S-GAME Studio
Genre: Soulslike

Despite its fast-paced, action-packed style inspired by wuxia films, Phantom Blade Zero is fundamentally a Soulslike game. Expect challenging boss battles in a dark and atmospheric world, where you’ll discover powerful equipment, learn new skills, and uncover hidden secrets.

We’ve been excited about Phantom Blade Zero ever since we first played it in 2024. It shares similarities with challenging ‘Soulslike’ games, featuring tough battles and checkpoints, but it also aims to be a more accessible and enjoyable action RPG.

Expect to fail often, but the real focus is the story. You’ll be drawn into a captivating, semi-open world with mysteries to unravel: Why are you being pursued? What’s the meaning of your 66-day lifespan? And what secrets does The Order hold? We’re excited to see you discover the answers.

1. GTA 6

Release date: November 19, 2026
Developer: Rockstar Games
Genre: Open-world action

Okay, so it’s finally happening – GTA 6! Rockstar’s been working super hard on this new game, codenamed Leonida, which is set in a fictional version of the US. The story’s gonna follow two characters, Lucia and Jason, and honestly, I’m expecting it to be huge. Everyone’s saying it’s going to completely change what we expect from open-world games, and I’m totally hyped to see how they do it.

We’re excited for GTA 6, and it’s easy to see why! It’s been 13 years since the last Grand Theft Auto game, and 7 years since Red Dead Redemption 2. Rockstar Games, known for creating incredibly detailed open-world games, has had plenty of time to improve on what made those games great, and we can’t wait to experience the results.

November 19, 2026, is predicted to be an incredible day. Businesses are bracing for a surge in time-off requests, and online game stores are expected to be overwhelmed. That’s because it’s the day GTA 6 launches, and it’s poised to become the best-selling entertainment release ever.

2025-12-25 11:26