TL;DR
- 2026 has already delivered plenty of standout games across action, horror, racing, adventure and multiplayer genres.
- 007 First Light takes the top spot for its Bond-style missions, stealth, gadgets and open-world gameplay.
- Resident Evil Requiem is a must-play for survival-horror fans.
- Forza Horizon 6 offers an expansive open-world racing experience set in Japan.
- Marathon brings a tense extraction-shooter experience from Bungie.
- Mina the Hollower, Saros, Pragmata and Mixtape offer more unique experiences beyond major franchises.
- With GTA VI still ahead, there’s already plenty to play in 2026.
2026 has already delivered a surprisingly strong lineup of games, from big-budget blockbusters to creative indie adventures. With GTA VI still on the horizon, there’s plenty to play before November.
Here are 12 games worth checking out in 2026.
12. Luna Abyss
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
Genre: Sci-fi horror FPS
Luna Abyss combines first-person shooting with atmospheric sci-fi horror. Its mysterious lunar setting, disturbing creatures and dark environments make it a great pick for players looking for something outside the usual shooter formula.
11. Life Is Strange: Reunion
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
Genre: Narrative adventure
Max Caulfield and Chloe Price are back. Reunion brings the focus back to their relationship while introducing another mystery involving Max’s time-travel abilities. It’s a strong choice for players who enjoy story-driven games and emotional character arcs.
10. LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
Genre: Action-adventure
Batman gets the LEGO treatment once again, combining familiar Gotham locations with exploration, combat and plenty of humor. It’s particularly fun for younger players and families.
9. Mixtape
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2, PC
Genre: Narrative adventure
Set during one chaotic night, Mixtape follows a group of teenagers through exploration, music and quirky mini-games. Its strong ’90s nostalgia and coming-of-age story give it a distinctly different feel.
8. Perfect Tides: Station to Station
Platforms: Switch, Switch 2, PC, macOS
Genre: Point-and-click adventure
This nostalgic adventure follows Mara Whitefish as she begins a new chapter of her life in the city. Its retro-inspired presentation and character-driven storytelling make it a refreshing change from action-heavy games.
7. Pragmata
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2, PC
Genre: Action-adventure
Pragmata mixes shooting with puzzle-solving. Players control Hugh and Diana, using their different abilities to overcome increasingly difficult enemies and challenges.
6. Forza Horizon 6
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
Genre: Racing
Set across a detailed version of Japan, Forza Horizon 6 offers open-world exploration, street racing and a huge selection of cars. You can compete seriously or simply cruise around and enjoy the scenery.
5. Saros
Platform: PS5
Genre: Roguelike action
From the creators of Returnal, Saros puts players on a mysterious alien planet filled with dangerous creatures. Its challenging combat and repeatable gameplay loop make every run feel different.
4. Marathon
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
Genre: Extraction shooter
From Bungie, Marathon takes players into tense multiplayer matches where completing objectives is only half the battle. Getting out alive is the real challenge.
3. Mina the Hollower
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch, Switch 2, PC, macOS, Linux
Genre: Action-adventure
Inspired by classic Game Boy Color adventures, Mina the Hollower combines retro visuals with modern gameplay. It’s challenging, charming and packed with exploration.
2. 007 First Light
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
Genre: Action-adventure
007 First Light offers a new origin story for James Bond, combining stealth, shooting, gadgets, driving and open-ended missions. Instead of simply copying the movies, it gives players more freedom in how they approach each mission.
1. Resident Evil Requiem
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2, PC
Genre: Survival horror
Resident Evil Requiem blends classic survival horror with larger action sequences. Its frightening early sections and more explosive later moments make it one of the standout entries in the long-running franchise.
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