TOP 10 – From long-awaited sequels to bold new projects, 2026 is shaping up to be an exceptionally strong year for video games. These titles stand out not just because of hype, but due to concrete promises in gameplay design, atmosphere, and technical ambition. This is our current list of the games we’re most excited to experience.

This selection includes major franchise returns, ambitious new IPs, and projects led by developers with proven track records. While some release dates may still shift, everything shown so far suggests these games could define the overall tone and direction of gaming in 2026.

10. Nioh 3

Release: February 6 on PC and PS5

Nioh 3 follows Tokugawa Takechiyo, a young future shogun forced to confront both supernatural chaos and human conspiracies after his brother Kunimatsu unleashes deadly yokai across Japan. The story spans multiple historical eras, from Edo to the Bakumatsu period, giving the narrative a broader historical scope. As the third mainline entry, the game expands its storytelling ambitions while preserving the series’ signature punishing combat and dark fantasy tone.

• Deep stance-based combat systems built around ninja and samurai disciplines
• Relentless enemy encounters that demand precision, timing, and mastery
• Large, interconnected environments filled with hidden paths and secrets

9. Saros

Release: April 30, exclusive to PS5

Set on the alien world of Carcosa, Saros stars Arjun Devraj, a Soltari Enforcer investigating the fate of a vanished colony while confronting both hostile forces and his own inner struggles. Much of the narrative unfolds through environmental storytelling rather than exposition. As a spiritual successor to Returnal, Saros blends fast-paced combat with roguelite progression, offering a fresh take on a well-worn genre.

• Third-person gunplay focused on dodging, parrying, and aggressive movement
• Persistent upgrades that carry over between failed runs
• Strategic use of the Soltari Shield to absorb and redirect enemy attacks

8. Phantom Blade Zero

Release: September 9 on PC and PS5

Phantom Blade Zero is a wuxia-inspired action RPG centered on Soul, an assassin framed for murder who uncovers a vast conspiracy while fighting to clear his name. The game features semi-open environments, branching narrative paths, and multiple endings. Blending martial arts with steampunk influences, early footage suggests a combat system that is fast, stylish, and highly responsive.

• High-speed third-person melee combat with weapons and martial techniques
• Exploration-focused zones with side missions and hidden content
• Player choices that shape both story progression and final outcomes

7. The Blood of Dawnwalker

Release: 2026 on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S

Developed by Rebel Wolves, a studio founded by former CD Projekt RED veterans, The Blood of Dawnwalker is an open-world vampire RPG driven by consequence-heavy decision-making. Players take control of Coen, human by day and vampire by night, racing against time to save his family from the ancient vampire Brencis. The game emphasizes moral ambiguity, flexible quest design, and meaningful player agency.

• A dynamic day-night cycle that fundamentally alters gameplay and objectives
• Customizable combat styles and evolving vampire abilities
• Time-sensitive decisions that reshape the world and narrative

6. Gears of War: E-Day

Release: 2026 on PC and Xbox Series X (PS5 version rumored)

Gears of War: E-Day returns to the beginning of the Locust War, retelling the events of Emergence Day through the eyes of Marcus Fenix and Dom Santiago. The focus is on chaos, fear, and survival during humanity’s darkest hours. While positioned as a prequel, the game may also serve as a foundation for the franchise’s future direction.

• Story-driven, linear campaign set during the initial invasion
• Classic third-person cover-based shooting mechanics
• Playable solo or in cooperative multiplayer

5. Control Resonant

Release: 2026 on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S

Control Resonant continues Remedy’s paranormal universe, shifting the spotlight to Dylan Faden in a reality-warped version of Manhattan. Players confront cosmic threats while mastering new supernatural abilities and wielding a shape-shifting melee weapon. The game expands the Remedy Connected Universe with even stranger environments and narrative threads.

• Reality-bending powers used in combat and environmental puzzles
• Surreal urban spaces filled with hidden lore
• Progressive upgrades to abilities and weapons as challenges intensify

4. Resident Evil Requiem

Release: February 27 on Nintendo Switch 2, PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S

Resident Evil Requiem revisits Raccoon City, following FBI analyst Grace Ashcroft as she investigates a mysterious death linked to her mother’s past at the Wrenwood Hotel. Leon returns as a playable character, complementing Grace’s investigative approach with veteran combat expertise. As the ninth mainline entry, the game aims to balance survival horror tension with action-driven pacing.

• Contrasting playstyles between stealth-focused investigation and combat-heavy action
• Limited resources, environmental puzzles, and formidable enemies
• High-stress exploration across familiar yet reimagined locations

3. 007 First Light

Release: May 27 on Nintendo Switch 2, PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S

007 First Light explores the early career of James Bond as he earns his status within MI6 and uncovers a global conspiracy. The narrative introduces Bond’s first interactions with iconic figures such as M, Q, and Moneypenny. Stealth, espionage, and high-stakes action are tightly interwoven throughout the experience.

• Covert infiltration, surveillance, and gadget-based gameplay
• High-intensity firefights using a wide arsenal of weapons
• International locations offering multiple tactical approaches

2. Marvel’s Wolverine

Release: Fall 2026, exclusive to PS5

After redefining Spider-Man, Insomniac Games turns its attention to Logan. Marvel’s Wolverine is expected to deliver a darker, more visceral tone centered on close-quarters combat and raw aggression. While details remain limited, anticipation remains extremely high.

• Brutal melee combat driven by Wolverine’s adamantium claws
• Diverse locations ranging from Madripoor to the Canadian wilderness
• Regeneration mechanics and feral instincts shaping combat flow

1. Grand Theft Auto 6

Release: November 19 on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S

Grand Theft Auto VI returns players to Vice City with dual protagonists Lucia and Jason at the center of its story. The narrative focuses on their relationship and the criminal underworld surrounding them, set within Rockstar’s most detailed open world to date. Although delayed to late 2026, expectations remain sky-high.

• Fans are still awaiting the third official trailer
• Gameplay is expected to evolve naturally from GTA V’s foundation
• The mechanics of character switching have yet to be fully revealed