As the holiday season wraps up and the initial New Year’s resolutions fade away, it’s common to feel a bit down. Don’t worry! The upcoming slate of amazing video games is enough to brighten our moods. Here are the most eagerly awaited video games of 2026.
What are the highly anticipated video games of 2026?
2025 delivered a stellar lineup of games, featuring hits like Blue Prince, Hollow Knight: Silksong, and The Séance of Blake Manor among our favorites. However, 2026 promises to be even more thrilling.
While there are numerous exciting titles on the horizon, we’ve compiled a list of the top five that have us buzzing. Other noteworthy mentions that barely missed our shortlist include Norse: Oath of Blood, Reanimal, Mixtape, and Coffee Talk Tokyo.
007: First Light
James Bond games have a mixed legacy. While classics like GoldenEye shine, others like NightFire have faced criticism despite enjoying fan affection. We’re thrilled that a new Bond game is on the way, and First Light shows immense promise. This installment takes place in a period between films, allowing for an original character portrayal that’s not bound to Daniel Craig or future actors. After 14 years without a proper Bond game, faith in IO Interactive, the studio behind First Light, is high, given their extensive experience in the genre with Hitman. This title is set to be released in late May.
Available on PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox Series X
Blood of Dawnwalker
Should Blood of Dawnwalker fulfill its potential, it could become one of the most exhilarating fantasy RPGs of recent years. Developed by Rebel Wolves, a studio formed by key figures from The Witcher 3, this debut title carries substantial expectations. From its reveal, the game has drawn parallels to The Witcher but aims to forge a distinct, morally complex narrative.
Set in a vampire-infested medieval world, Blood of Dawnwalker promises expansive exploration and narrative-driven choices, with a combat system that looks both brutal and intentional. The game emphasizes storytelling, aiming to create an atmospheric experience alongside action. A release date is still anticipated, causing excitement to build.
Available on PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox Series X
Crimson Desert
This ambitious open-world action-adventure game from Pearl Abyss aims high. What began as a spin-off is now poised to be a grander project, not just in terms of scale but also in its intriguing elements. Expect everything from anthropomorphic deer-headed warriors to shadowy demons and even spaceships. It appears to be a world meant for exploration, although the extent of what can be discovered remains a mystery.
Initially a prequel to Black Desert Online, this game transformed into a single-player experience in the same universe. The storyline follows Cliff and his comrades as they navigate conflicts in Pywel against the Black Bears. Crimson Desert is slated for release on March 19.
Available on PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox Series X
The Duskbloods
The Duskbloods is anticipated to be a significant success for Nintendo, featuring PVP and PVE gameplay for up to eight players, and it’s set to be exclusive to Switch 2. From the mind behind Elden Ring and Dark Souls, this game promises a captivating Victorian vampire-steampunk aesthetic.
Fable
While our list heavily favors fantasy RPGs, Fable stands out as something truly special. This long-awaited return taps into nostalgia for Xbox fans, which holds personal significance for this writer from the early 2000s. With Playground Games leading development, Fable aims to revive a cherished franchise that has long awaited a new release. Expectations run high, and though we await a concrete release date, previews suggest a reimagining that respects the original trilogy’s spirit.
Available on Windows PC and Xbox Series X
Grand Theft Auto VI
This title needs little introduction. Grand Theft Auto VI is set to be a monumental entry if it lives up to the immense hype. Returning players to a modernized Vice City, this game promises Rockstar’s most expansive open world yet. However, be prepared for potential delays as anticipation continues to build.
Available on PlayStation 5 (PS5) and Xbox Series X/S
Pokémon Pokopia
Amidst the action-heavy titles, Pokémon Pokopia offers a refreshing change. This spin-off merges elements from Pokémon and Animal Crossing, delivering charm that lifts spirits. It appears to be one of the few releases that can momentarily escape the overwhelming realities of life, providing an adorable experience.
Available on Nintendo Switch 2
Pragmata
Another intriguing release from Capcom, Pragmata is set on a lunar research station, where players assume the role of Hugh and his android, Diana. Together, they must navigate hostilities from a rogue AI in their quest to return to Earth. Originally scheduled for release in 2022, the extended wait has only heightened anticipation, suggesting that this title will be worth the delay.
Available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and the Nintendo Switch 2
Reanimal
Cooperative horror games are always exhilarating experiences, and Reanimal caters to this thrill. The storyline revolves around siblings trapped in hell trying to escape. With an eerie atmosphere filled with unsettling creatures and challenging puzzles, players are sure to stay engaged. Gameplay previews are available, and while a release date is yet to be confirmed, excitement is palpable.
Available on Xbox Series X and Windows PC.
Resident Evil Requiem
February can’t come soon enough for the release of Resident Evil Requiem, the latest installment in a franchise that keeps fans on edge. With its impending arrival, this title appears to be a must-play for fans of survival horror, possibly ushering in a fresh era for the genre.
Available on PlayStation 5 (PS5), Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC
How We Selected the Most Anticipated Games of 2026
With numerous outstanding games on the market, these selections particularly caught our attention and are generating significant buzz.
