Ready for a landmark year in gaming? 2026 brings one of the deepest lineups yet—blockbuster sequels, smart reboots, and bold new IPs. From the massive open-world spectacle of GTA 6 release date (November 19) to the feral single-player punch of Marvel's Wolverine, these best upcoming games 2026 deliver cutting-edge visuals, fresh mechanics, and stories built for long play sessions.

Whether you’re an open-world fan hunting heists, a single-player story player chasing narrative beats, or a racer who lives for JDM drifts, there’s something here for you: hunt monsters in Resident Evil Requiem, tear up the roads in Forza Horizon 6, or probe Kojima’s surrealism in Death Stranding 2. We compiled this top upcoming games 2026 list from GameSpot, IGN, PC Gamer, PlayStation, and publisher announcements — updated February 17, 2026. All dates reflect confirmed or highly likely release windows and focus on post-February launches.

What you'll find: a quick overview table (jump to it), in-depth breakdowns for the biggest releases, quick hits for notable mid-tier titles, and an FAQ with release and platform notes. Bookmark this page or subscribe for release alerts and platform-specific tips (PS5, Xbox Series, PC) as dates shift.

Quick Overview: Top 15 Upcoming Games 2026

At-a-glance release calendar — jump to any entry for full details.

1. Grand Theft Auto VI – The King of Open-World Chaos Returns

Rockstar Games' GTA 6 leads the list of upcoming games 2026 as a defining open-world experience. Set in a fully realized Vice City inspired by Miami, GTA 6 reportedly stars dual protagonists Jason and Lucia in a sprawling crime saga built around heists, satire, and emergent moments. Trailers and developer commentary highlight expanded systems—dynamic weather, denser NPC AI, and a map that mixes neon urban sprawl with swampy, alligator-filled Everglades-style areas.

The current release listing shows November 19 on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S with a later PC window; confirm with Rockstar for final timing. Compared to past Rockstar hits (GTA V, Red Dead Redemption 2), expect larger verticality, more environmental simulation, and deeper single-player systems—early indications suggest a single-player campaign that could rival Red Dead in scale and hundreds of hours of combined single-player and live-service content.

Why it matters: next-gen engine upgrades, deeper AI-driven world simulation, and massive potential pre-order demand across PS5 and Xbox Series platforms.
Quick comparison: map and systemic depth—GTA V (2013) was huge for its time; GTA 6 appears to expand that footprint, with more reactive NPCs and environmental hazards that affect gameplay (flooding, wildlife).
Practical prep: free up console storage, enable bandwith for large day-one patches, and follow Rockstar’s pre-order page for platform-specific editions.

If you’re tracking the GTA 6 release date, keep this article bookmarked—we’ll update the timeline and link to a dedicated pre-order guide that lists bundles, editions, and platform-specific perks as soon as Rockstar confirms them.

2. Marvel's Wolverine – Claws Out for Brutal Revenge

New Key Art for Insomniac's 'Wolverine' (Releases Fall 2026) : r/Marvel

New Key Art for Insomniac's 'Wolverine' (Releases Fall 2026) : r/Marvel

Insomniac's Marvel's Wolverine is scheduled for Fall 2026 as a PS5 launch exclusive. The game centers on Logan in a brutal, single-player revenge story with an emphasis on visceral melee combat: fast combos, timed parries, and a regenerating-health system that rewards aggressive play. Early materials and developer interviews describe a darker, M-rated tone compared with Insomniac's Spider-Man—expect blood, rage modes, and high-impact boss encounters that lean into Wolverine's feral identity.

Combat & systems

Core loop: close-quarters combat with combo branching, parry windows, and stamina-like management that punishes reckless swings.
Progression: skill trees and upgrades that expand Wolverine’s moveset, unlock rage abilities, and modify traversal—designed to keep fights fluid and cinematic.
Encounters: arena-like boss fights and stealth-to-assault sequences that should feel distinct from Insomniac’s previous open-city traversal design.

Insomniac’s pedigree (Ratchet & Clank, Spider-Man) suggests tight animation and responsive controls, but Wolverine aims for a grittier playstyle focused on brutal one-on-one fights rather than large-scale open-world crowd combat. For PS5 owners, expect sizable day-one installs and HDR/SSD optimizations; check the PlayStation Store for recommended storage and pre-order editions when they go live.

If you're compiling a list of the top action games 2026, Wolverine is a likely fit for fans who prefer single-player cinematic combat. We’ll update this entry with confirmed ESRB ratings, exclusive content details, and a direct PS Store pre-order link as soon as Insomniac posts them.

3. Death Stranding 2: On The Beach – Kojima's Weirdness Evolves

DEATH STRANDING 2: ON THE BEACH COMING TO PC ON MARCH 19th, 2026 | Kojima Productions

Hideo Kojima's sequel is currently listed for a March 19 release on PC (with PS5 arriving earlier), expanding the original delivery-sim-with-existential-dread into a larger, more interconnected experience. Sam Porter Bridges (Norman Reedus) returns to traverse liminal beaches and post-life landscapes while facing BTs and mechanized threats; developer briefings hint at cooperative raid-style encounters alongside the familiar solitary deliveries. The cast grows with names like Elle Fanning and Shioli Kutsuna attached, and trailers push photoreal visuals and Kojima's signature, mind-bending narrative beats.

What’s new vs. the first game

Co-op raids: episodic, high-stakes encounters where players team up to tackle mech-like foes and large BT clusters.
Expanded systems: base-building and tethered networks that influence traversal and delivery routes, increasing emergent gameplay possibilities.
Production scale: upgraded photogrammetry and lighting for more lifelike environments and cinematic set pieces.

Gameplay, cast & platforms

Narrative & cast: Norman Reedus returns as Sam; Elle Fanning and Shioli Kutsuna are credited in supporting roles—check official credits for final cast listings.
Gameplay: expect a mix of stealth, traversal, short-form raids, and the series’ trademark social strands that connect solo players indirectly.
Platforms & release: listed for PS5 first with a PC release on March 19; confirm any Xbox Series plans from Kojima Productions or publisher statements before assuming availability.

Watch the latest trailer and developer diary for concrete examples of raid encounters and traversal upgrades, and add Death Stranding 2 to your wishlist on Steam or PS Store to get notified about patches, DLC, and platform-specific bonuses. We’ll update this entry when Kojima Productions confirms final release windows, system requirements, and cross-platform features.

4. Crimson Desert – Epic Open-World Fantasy Adventure

Crimson Desert Wallpaper 4K, Key Art, 2026 Games, Game Art

Pearl Abyss' Crimson Desert is scheduled for a March 19 release across PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC, positioning itself as a large-scale action-RPG that blends open-world exploration with deep hunting and combat loops. You play as Macduff (and other party figures) across the harsh continent of Pywel, where faction rivalry, monster contracts, and dynamic world events drive both story quests and emergent side content.

What to expect

Core systems: third-person action combat with combo chains, mounted combat, and targeted monster-hunting mechanics reminiscent of Monster Hunter’s tracking and phase-based boss fights.
World & progression: large regions with faction hubs, reputation systems, and narrative arcs—expect mission variety (escort, siege, contract hunts) rather than repetitive fetch quests.
Endgame & features: faction warfare, repeatable monster hunts with gear progression, and potential co-op or scaled multiplayer encounters (confirm on official dev channels).

Developers cite influences from action-RPGs like Dragon’s Dogma for combat freedom and ambitious open-world design—rather than literal Zelda-like puzzles—so frame comparisons around mechanics: exploration-driven systems, environmental traversal, and layered encounter design. For PC players, watch for published minimum and recommended specs and add Crimson Desert to your wishlist to get notified about pre-order editions and any platform-specific bonuses.

5. Phantom Blade Zero – Soulslike Wuxia Mastery

Exclusive Developer Interview ft. Phantom Blade Zero - IGN

Game's Phantom Blade Zero lands September 9 on PS5 and PC, blending wuxia swordplay with gothic steampunk aesthetics. You control Soul, an agile assassin who switches between fluid melee stances and an arsenal of more than 30 weapons—each with unique parry windows and move chains—making every duel a study in timing and precision.

Combat & progression

Pacing: fast-paced, parry-focused encounters reward precise timing over button-mashing; expect stamina or posture mechanics that punish reckless aggression.
Progression: weapon upgrades, skill trees, and gear modifiers let you specialize in stealth kills, aggressive combos, or defensive counters—typical Soulslike risk/reward design with checkpointed saves.
Signature encounters: boss fights use multi-phase patterns that test mastery of parries and weapon swaps—one early boss reportedly forces you to chain counters to break heavy armor and reach a stun window.

Built in Unreal Engine 5, Phantom Blade aims for cinematic visuals and fluid animation that highlight wuxia stunts—wall runs, air combos, and cinematic finishers. Compared to typical soulslike games, Phantom Blade emphasizes faster recovery and flashy movement while keeping high-stakes combat and limited healing to maintain tension.

For PC players, check official system requirements and watch a combat breakdown video to see advanced parry windows and weapon interactions in action. Add Phantom Blade or Blade Zero to your wishlist to catch pre-order info and performance patches on launch day.

6. Resident Evil Requiem – Raccoon City Horror Revival

Resident Evil Requiem: Raccoon City Calls Again! New Terror and Bold Gameplay Innovations Set to Shake Fans - Noi English

Capcom's Resident Evil Requiem is scheduled for a February 27 release across multiple platforms. Playing as Grace Ashcroft, you'll navigate Raccoon City's crumbling streets in a survival-horror experience that offers both first- and third-person perspectives, tense inventory management, and puzzle-driven exploration—a conscious return toward the series' survival roots after RE Village.

What to expect

Survival mechanics: limited ammo, scarce healing items, and resource crafting that force careful decision-making rather than run-and-gun combat.
Puzzle design: environmental puzzles and interconnected areas that reward backtracking and observation—expect classic Resident Evil-style clues and multi-step puzzle chains.
Enemy variety & combat: tense encounters with infected civilians, mutated bosses, and set-piece sequences; combat emphasizes avoidance and strategy over straight firefights.

Platforms & practical notes

Release & platforms: listed for February 27 on PS5 and Xbox Series X (and other confirmed platforms where announced); check Capcom's official channels for exact platform rollouts and PC specs.
Performance & patches: anticipate day-one patches and post-launch balancing—subscribe to Capcom updates or add Resident Evil Requiem to your wishlist to receive patch notes and performance guidance for Xbox Series consoles and PC.
Why it matters: as a flagship Resident Evil title, Requiem's design choices will shape survival-horror expectations for the year and influence future biohazard releases.

We will flag any changes to the Resident Evil Requiem release window, confirmed platform list, or perspective options as Capcom publishes updates—bookmark this entry for the latest official details and developer commentary.

7. Pragmata – Capcom's Sci-Fi Mystery

New Capcom Sci Fi Title "Pragmata" Announced - Rely on Horror

Capcom's Pragmata is scheduled for an April 24 release and takes a grounded sci‑fi approach: Hugh and the android Diana are thrust into a mysterious lunar-station setting where hacking, environmental traversal, and cinematic combat intersect with a story-driven mystery. After a long delay, Pragmata aims to combine narrative spectacle with playable systems rather than pure spectacle alone.

Story

The plot centers on Hugh searching for a lost child and the enigmatic Diana on a near-future lunar outpost—expect atmospheric set pieces, branching cutscenes, and moments designed for emotional payoff rather than open-world exploration.

Mechanics

Hacking & puzzle play: gadget-driven puzzles that alter environments and open new paths.
Combat: scripted, cinematic encounters that mix cover, melee, and tech abilities—designed for single-player pacing.
Presentation: photoreal visuals and directed sequences; check the latest dev updates for examples of in-engine set pieces.

Check Capcom’s State of Play and the official trailer for the most current footage and developer notes—add Pragmata to your PS Store or Steam wishlist to get notified about final PC/Xbox Series rollouts, patches, and pre-order editions once Capcom confirms them.

8. Forza Horizon 6 – Drift Through Japan

Forza Horizon 6: Answering the Big Questions About That Japan Setting - Xbox Wire

Playground Games' Forza Horizon 6 is set for a May 19 release and takes the Horizon Festival to Japan, stretching from Mount Fuji to the neon streets of Tokyo. Expect a heavy emphasis on JDM culture, tuned drift physics, and a curated roster of iconic Japanese cars alongside global classics—built to exploit Xbox Series hardware for high-fidelity visuals and smooth frame rates.

What’s new & why it matters to racers

Map & events: dense, varied regions with dedicated drift zones, mountain passes, and urban sprint courses; Horizon’s live events and seasonal playlists are expected to evolve with Japan-themed festivals.
Car culture & roster: deeper tuning options, new JDM icons, and a mix of licensed drift cars—look for curated car packs in pre-order/deluxe editions.
Tech & performance: Xbox Series optimizations (fast resume, FPS modes, HDR) plus improvements to weather and road-surface simulation that affect handling and drift behavior.

Playground’s developer diary and the Xbox Wire breakdown highlight advances to drift mechanics and event scaling—watch those videos for hands-on demos. Forza Horizon 6 is likely to be a major draw on Xbox Series consoles and could appear on Xbox Game Pass at launch or shortly after; check official announcements for final availability and pre-order editions (car packs, deluxe content).

Racing fans: prepare your wheel settings and controller profiles, clear console storage for a large install, and add Forza Horizon 6 to your Xbox wishlist to catch launch-day perks and post-launch car drops.

9. 007: First Light – Bond's Origin Story

007 First Light: Everything we know about IO's James Bond game - Dexerto

IO Interactive’s 007: First Light is slated for May 27 and offers a grounded origin tale focused on a younger James Bond. Built by the Hitman team, the game blends stealth design with gadget-driven set pieces: expect mission-based structure, stealth takedowns, bespoke spy gadgets, and high-speed chase sequences that emphasize pacing and planning over open-world roaming.

Gameplay highlights

Stealth systems: vertical mission design, line-of-sight mechanics, and improved AI for more reactive guards and dynamic stealth opportunities.
Gadgets & tools: signature Bond gadgets—hacking devices, recon drones, and signature weapons—that support multiple approaches (non-lethal or aggressive).
Mission design: set-piece-driven levels that blend Hitman-style planning with scripted Bond moments (car chases, infiltration, timed escapes).

For Xbox Series players, check the official Xbox Wire preview for platform-specific performance notes and any Xbox Series-exclusive features. Add First Light to your wishlist or follow IO Interactive for mission previews, edition breakdowns, and Day-One patch details before launch.

10. Fable Reboot – Humorous Fantasy Returns

The Fable reboot is targeting Fall 2026 for Xbox Series X and PC, bringing Albion back with its trademark British wit, choice-driven gameplay, and whimsical fantasy. The new Fable aims to modernize morality systems so choices meaningfully affect town development, character relationships, and even environmental changes—think more visible consequences than the originals.

What to expect

Choices & consequences: morality and reputation mechanics that influence NPC behaviors, quest outcomes, and the look-and-feel of towns and landmarks.
Quest types: a mix of story-led quests, humorous side content, and faction-friendly activities that lean into the franchise’s comedic tone rather than punishing morality sliders.
Multiplayer & systems: developer notes suggest a primarily single-player, narrative-first experience—confirm any co-op features in later updates.

Fable’s rebootary approach balances nostalgia with modern systems—expect polished RPG mechanics on Xbox Series hardware, including faster load times and improved visuals. Add Fable to your wishlist on Xbox or Steam and watch the official trailer for gameplay details and edition breakdowns as the Fall 2026 launch window is confirmed.

11-15: Quick Hits on the Rest

Title What it is Window / Platforms MarathonPvPvE extraction shooter with tense high-stakes runs and asymmetric objectives—think tight matches, loot risk, and extraction planning.March (TBA) — PS5, Xbox Series XLego Batman: Legacy of the Dark KnightOpen-world Lego take on Gotham with family-friendly puzzles, buildable set-pieces, and co-op play—great for casual and younger players.May 29 — PS5, Xbox Series XGears of War: E-DayA prequel entry in the Gears franchise focusing on early conflicts and gritty cover-based combat—expected to expand the series’ lore.2026 (TBA) — Xbox Series XControl ResonantAn open-world supernatural spinoff with psi-powers, environmental puzzles, and district-focused storylines—aimed at fans of narrative paranormal games.2026 (TBA) — PS5, Xbox Series XTomb Raider: Legacy of AtlantisA Lara Croft remake/reimagining focusing on exploration, archaeology puzzles, and aquatic ruins—franchise reboot sensibilities with modern systems.2026 (TBA) — PS5, Xbox Series X

Also worth watching

Resident Evil
Phantom Blade
Nintendo and indie rumors: Mario Tennis entries, Mario Bros. Wonder, Super Mario Bros. remasters, and smaller indie picks like Super Meat Boy, Slay the Spire, and Adventures Elliot are also on many radars.
Niche/rumored titles: watch for mentions of Crimson Butterfly Remake, Romeo: Dead Man rumors, and updates to Monster Hunter Stories—these could influence the year’s RPG and horror lineup.

Practical next steps: add release dates to your calendar, set wishlist reminders on Xbox/PS/Steam, and follow developers on social for pre-order bonuses and edition breakdowns. Pre-order perks often include car packs, early access, or cosmetic bundles—check platform-specific notes for Xbox Series editions and publisher exclusives before buying.

FAQ: Top Upcoming Games 2026

When is GTA 6 coming out? As listed above, Rockstar currently shows November 19, 2026 for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S; a PC window is expected later. Always verify Rockstar’s official site or press releases for final confirmation and regional variations.

Is Wolverine 2026 exclusive? Yes—Insomniac and Sony have marketed Marvel’s Wolverine as a PS5 launch exclusive. Watch for any later platform announcements from the developer, but assume PS5-first when planning purchases.

Will any of these games be on Xbox Game Pass? Some Xbox-first titles (like Forza Horizon 6 and Gears entries) are strong candidates for Game Pass, but publishers decide availability case-by-case. Check the Xbox Wire and official Game Pass blog for confirmations close to launch.

Which major exclusives should I track by platform? PS5 exclusives or timed exclusives to watch: Marvel’s Wolverine (PS5). Xbox-focused highlights: Forza Horizon 6, Gears of War: E-Day, and Fable (Xbox Series X). For multi-platform titles, check each publisher’s storefront for edition differences.

Which multiplayer or co-op games are notable in 2026? Look to Death Stranding 2 for raid-style co-op elements, Marathon for PvPvE extraction runs, and multiplayer components in Crimson Desert or Gears spinoffs—verify mode details in official feature lists.

Any PC-specific highlights? Yes—For PC players, Death Stranding 2 (PC release on March 19 per current listings), Crimson Desert, and Phantom Blade Zero (PC/PS5) are key entries to track for high-end visuals and moddable support—watch system requirements and driver updates before launch.

Are there other smaller or rumored titles to watch? Beyond the Top 15, keep an eye on rumored or niche projects that often surface across the year: Mario Bros. Wonder, new Mario Tennis entries, indie hits like Super Meat Boy remasters, and rumored remakes (Crimson Butterfly remake, Romeo: Dead Man). These can affect the year's indie and retro vibes.

How do you verify release dates? We cross-check publisher press releases, developer updates (State of Play, Xbox Developer Direct), and industry outlets (GameSpot, IGN, PC Gamer). Dates in this article are accurate as of the February 17, 2026 update—subscribe or bookmark for changes.

Want release-date alerts? Subscribe to updates or add titles to your platform wishlists (PS Store, Xbox Store, Steam) to receive immediate notifications, patch notes, and preorder offers. If you need a consolidated pre-order & platform guide or an update log, click the subscription link at the top of this page.

11. Marathon — High-Stakes PvPvE Extraction Shooter With Tactical Survival Gameplay

What it is:
Marathon revives the classic sci-fi franchise as a competitive PvPvE extraction shooter where players enter dangerous zones filled with AI enemies and rival squads. Each match focuses on survival, smart loot management, and successful extraction.

Key Features:

Risk-versus-reward extraction gameplay
Asymmetric objectives and team strategy
Sci-fi environments with tactical combat
High replayability through dynamic encounters

Release Window / Platforms:
March (TBA) — PS5, Xbox Series X

12. Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight — Open-World Gotham Adventure for Family Co-Op Fun

What it is:
A LEGO-style open-world adventure set in Gotham City, combining humor, puzzles, and action. Designed for casual players and younger audiences, the game emphasizes creativity and cooperative gameplay.

Key Features:

Fully explorable Gotham City
Drop-in co-op multiplayer
Creative LEGO building puzzles
Fun storytelling with DC characters

Release Date / Platforms:
May 29 — PS5, Xbox Series X

13. Gears of War: E-Day — The Origins of War in a Gritty Prequel Experience

What it is:
This prequel explores the early days of the Locust invasion, showing humanity’s first battle for survival. The game returns to the franchise’s roots with emotional storytelling and intense cover-based combat.

Key Features:

Lore-focused prequel storyline
Classic cover-based shooting mechanics
Cinematic and dark narrative tone
Next-gen visual improvements

Release Window / Platforms:
2026 (TBA) — Xbox Series X

14. Control Resonant — A Supernatural Open-World Journey Powered by Psychic Abilities

What it is:
Set in the paranormal universe of Control, this open-world spinoff introduces new districts filled with supernatural events. Players use psychic powers to solve puzzles and fight mysterious enemies.

Key Features:

Open-world paranormal exploration
Telekinesis and psi-based combat abilities
Narrative-driven gameplay
Environmental puzzle solving

Release Window / Platforms:
2026 (TBA) — PS5, Xbox Series X

15. Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis — Lara Croft Returns in a Modern Exploration Reimagining

What it is:
A modern reimagining of the Tomb Raider series focusing on exploration and archaeology. Players explore underwater ruins and ancient civilizations connected to the legend of Atlantis.

Key Features:

Exploration-focused gameplay
Complex environmental puzzles
Underwater traversal mechanics
Modern combat and survival systems

Release Window / Platforms:
2026 (TBA) — PS5, Xbox Series X

Also worth watching

Resident Evil
Phantom Blade
Nintendo and indie rumors: Mario Tennis entries, Mario Bros. Wonder, Super Mario Bros. remasters, and smaller indie picks like Super Meat Boy, Slay the Spire, and Adventures Elliot are also on many radars.
Niche/rumored titles: watch for mentions of Crimson Butterfly Remake, Romeo: Dead Man rumors, and updates to Monster Hunter Stories—these could influence the year’s RPG and horror lineup.