2026 is shaping up to be an exceptional year for video games, with releases that aim not only to impress longtime fans but also to draw even more players into the hobby. And yes—while much of the attention is focused on obvious heavyweights like GTA 6 and Marvel’s Wolverine, the year has far more to offer than just those two giants.
Across multiple genres and platforms, 2026 promises to be packed with ambitious projects, long-awaited returns, and bold new ideas. From cinematic action adventures to deep RPGs and high-speed racers, there’s something for every type of player.
Here are the 10 most anticipated games of 2026, ranked from exciting to absolutely unmissable.
Most Anticipated Games of 2026
10. Pragmata
One of Capcom’s most intriguing projects, Pragmata follows an astronaut who teams up with an advanced android to explore a mysterious research facility on the Moon. The game combines strategic combat, narrative-driven exploration, and thought-provoking themes centred on artificial intelligence.
With striking visuals and a strong sci-fi atmosphere, it’s already caught plenty of attention—and players can even try a demo on PC via Steam. Pragmata launches on April 24, 2026, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
9. Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve
After a six-year break, Bandai Namco is bringing the iconic aerial combat series back with Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve. The new entry promises a deeper look into the life of a combat pilot, focusing not just on dogfights but also on the motivations behind the conflicts.
The developer has also highlighted major improvements to online multiplayer, aiming to expand and strengthen the community over time. The game is scheduled for 2026 on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
8. Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis
Lara Croft returns in Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis, a title that aims to recapture the spirit of the original 1996 game while fully embracing modern visuals and gameplay systems.
Led by Amazon Games, the project doubles as a celebration of 30 years of Lara Croft, one of gaming’s most iconic protagonists. The game is scheduled for release in 2026 on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
7. Halo: Campaign Evolved
Master Chief is back in Halo: Campaign Evolved, a remake that goes beyond simple visual upgrades. For the first time, a main Halo campaign will also arrive on PlayStation, marking a major shift for the franchise.
Split-screen multiplayer returns, and the game includes three new prequel missions exploring Master Chief’s relationship with Sergeant Johnson. The release is set for 2026 on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PS5.
6. Forza Horizon 6
One of the most beloved modern racing franchises heads to Japan in Forza Horizon 6. This new setting opens the door for long-requested Asian car brands, new environments, and fresh driving challenges.
Microsoft has reportedly reassigned the entire Turn 10 Studios team to assist with development, signalling the importance of this release. The game is set to launch in 2026 for Xbox Series X|S and PC, with a PS5 version arriving later.
5. Control Resonant
Remedy Entertainment expands its supernatural universe with Control Resonant, a direct sequel to the 2019 hit. This time, the story focuses on Jesse’s brother as paranormal threats spread beyond containment and into Manhattan itself.
While connected to the original, Remedy has confirmed the story will stand on its own, making it accessible to new players. The game is expected in 2026 on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
4. Resident Evil Requiem
Resident Evil Requiem reunites Leon S. Kennedy and Grace Ashcroft in a return to Raccoon City—30 years after its destruction. This ninth mainline entry raises the stakes with a threat capable of causing an even greater catastrophe.
Designed as a major celebration of the franchise’s 30-year legacy, the game aims to redefine survival horror once again. It launches on February 27, 2026, for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch 2, and PC.
3. Marvel’s Wolverine
After redefining superhero games with Spider-Man, Insomniac Games turns its attention to Logan in Marvel’s Wolverine. The game promises brutal combat, a darker tone, and iconic villains like Omega Red, Mystique, and the Sentinels.
While connections to the wider Marvel universe remain unclear, expectations are sky-high. The game is scheduled to arrive in late 2026, launching first as a PS5 exclusive.
2. 007 First Light
James Bond finally returns to gaming with 007 First Light, developed by IO Interactive. Rather than adapting an existing film, the game tells an original origin story, showing how Bond earned his 00 status.
Combining stealth, action, and signature spy flair, it’s one of the most promising releases of the year. 007 First Light launches on March 27, 2026, for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch 2, and PC.
1. Grand Theft Auto VI
After more than a decade of waiting, GTA 6 is finally on the horizon. Rockstar has shared limited details, but expectations are enormous across graphics, physics, storytelling, and world design.
The story follows Jason and Lucia, a modern “Bonnie and Clyde” duo navigating crime and chaos. Whether it lives up to the hype remains to be seen—but all eyes will be on November 19, 2026, when it launches on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S.
Beyond this top 10, 2026 is packed with other promising titles like Saros, Phantom Blade Zero, Toxic Commando, Nioh 3, Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection, and Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave. There are also major unknowns still looming, including Dragon Quest XII and the next generation of Pokémon.
