List · 12 min read

The 15 Most Anticipated Games of 2026

From GTA 6 to Resident Evil 9, these are the games that will define 2026. Complete with release dates, platforms, and why each game deserves your attention.

By Divik · Published · Updated 2026-01-11

Heads up: this article is from 2026-01-08 and details may have changed.

2026: A Landmark Year for Gaming

2026 is shaping up to be one of the biggest years in gaming history. From long-awaited sequels to exciting new IPs, here's our definitive list of games you need to watch.

1. Grand Theft Auto VI

Release: Fall 2026 | Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S

The most anticipated game of the decade returns us to Vice City with dual protagonists and Rockstar's most ambitious world yet. [View details →](/game/grand-theft-auto-vi)

2. Resident Evil 9: Requiem

Release: February 27, 2026 | Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC

The next chapter in Capcom's legendary survival horror franchise. [View details →](/game/resident-evil-9-requiem)

3. Crimson Desert

Release: 2026 | Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC

An action-adventure RPG from Pearl Abyss featuring breathtaking visuals and intense combat. [View details →](/game/crimson-desert)

4. Phantom Blade Zero

Release: 2026 | Platforms: PS5, PC

A stylish action game blending martial arts with supernatural powers in an ancient Chinese setting. [View details →](/game/phantom-blade-zero)

5. Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time Remake

Release: 2026 | Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC

The classic reimagined with modern graphics and gameplay while preserving the magic of the original. [View details →](/game/prince-of-persia-the-sands-of-time-remake)

6. Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis

Release: 2026 | Platforms: TBA

A reimagining of Lara Croft's 1996 genre-defining adventure with modern visuals. [View details →](/game/tomb-raider-legacy-of-atlantis)

7. Diablo IV: Lord of Hatred

Release: 2026 | Platforms: PS5, Xbox, PC

The next major expansion for Diablo IV featuring Mephisto's dark crusade. [View details →](/game/diablo-iv-lord-of-hatred)

8. 007 First Light

Release: 2026 | Platforms: TBA

A new James Bond game exploring the origins of 007. [View details →](/game/007-first-light)

9. Pragmata

Release: 2026 | Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC

Capcom's mysterious sci-fi adventure set in a dystopian near-future. [View details →](/game/pragmata)

10. Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve

Release: 2026 | Platforms: TBA

Soar through the skies in the latest installment of the legendary flight combat series. [View details →](/game/ace-combat-8-wings-of-theve)

11. Reanimal

Release: 2026 | Platforms: TBA

A unique platformer from the creators of Inside and Limbo. [View details →](/game/reanimal)

12. The Dark Pictures: Directive 8020

Release: March 27, 2026 | Platforms: PS5, Xbox, PC

The latest narrative horror experience from Supermassive Games, set in space. [View details →](/game/the-dark-pictures-directive-8020)

13. Replaced

Release: 2026 | Platforms: PC, Xbox

A stunning 2.5D action platformer with retro-futuristic pixel art. [View details →](/game/replaced)

14. Marvel Rivals Season Updates

Release: Throughout 2026 | Platforms: PS5, Xbox, PC

New seasons bringing more heroes, maps, and content to the hit team shooter. [View details →](/game/marvel-rivals-season-6-night-at-museum)

15. Dune: Awakening

Release: 2026 | Platforms: PS5, PC

An open-world survival MMO set in the Dune universe. [View details →](/game/dune-awakening-raiders-of-the-broken-lands)

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Track All These Games

Use NextPlay's [Calendar](/calendar) to see release dates at a glance, or browse by [Platform](/platform) or [Genre](/genre) to find more games you'll love.

Last updated: January 11, 2026