Gaming in 2025 belonged largely to indie and double-A games. Smaller teams delivered fresh ideas, while many big studios stayed quiet. That trend may change in 2026. The upcoming release calendar is packed with large-scale projects from well-known developers.
This does not mean indie games will disappear. It simply shows that major studios are finally ready to return with their biggest releases. From long-awaited sequels to iconic characters making a comeback, 2026 could be a blockbuster year.
Below is a look at some of the most anticipated games of 2026, across different genres.
Grand Theft Auto 6
After more than a decade, the next chapter of the famous open-world series is almost here on November 19, 2026. Rockstar is taking players to a fictional version of Florida. The story follows two characters, Jason and Lucia, who are caught in a massive statewide conspiracy.
Gameplay details are still limited. However, Rockstar’s history suggests another big step forward for open-world design. Online features may also evolve in new ways. For many players, this is the biggest release of the year.
Marvel’s Wolverine
Wolverine finally gets a modern solo game. Insomniac Games is behind the project, which already raises expectations. Early footage shows a darker tone and brutal combat that suits the character well.
The game will explore locations like Canada and Japan. Familiar faces such as Mystique and Omega Red will appear. If Insomniac delivers the same quality seen in its superhero titles, this could be a serious Game of the Year contender.
Resident Evil Requiem
Capcom’s next mainline horror entry is returning to Raccoon City on 26 Feb 2026, decades after the outbreak. Players follow two characters. One focuses on fear and investigation, while the other brings action and experience.
A major change is the option to switch between first-person and third-person views at any time. This lets players control how intense the experience feels. Early demos have left a strong impression, making this one of the most talked-about horror games of 2026.
007 First Light
James Bond returns to gaming after a long break. This new title focuses on a young Bond at the start of his career. The story shows his journey toward earning 00 status.
Gameplay blends stealth, action, and cinematic moments. It is not as open as some stealth games, but it still offers player choice. With IO Interactive leading development, expectations are high.
We will see bond in action on May 27, 2026.
Crimson Desert
This game has had an unusual development and it’s finally launching on March 19, 2026. What started as an online project has become a massive single-player adventure. The open world is huge and fully seamless. It’s coming on March 19 2026.
Combat looks deep and complex. Players can explore freely, fight powerful enemies, and even ride dragons. The biggest mystery remains the story, but the technical ambition alone makes this one exciting.
Phantom Blade Zero
A new studio steps into the AAA spotlight with this stylish action game. Combat draws inspiration from martial arts films and fast-paced swordplay. The visual style is dark and striking.
The story follows a warrior racing against time. Early hands-on previews have been very positive. If the narrative matches the gameplay, this could be a breakout hit.
Phantom Blade Zero is launching on September 9, 2026.
The Blood of Dawnwalker
Created by former developers of The Witcher series, this dark fantasy RPG puts a unique spin on time and choice. The protagonist has limited days to save his family.
Day and night play very differently. Choices shape the story in meaningful ways. The world is smaller than The Witcher, but the focus is on quality and depth. The release date is yet to be announced.
Control Resonant
Remedy expands the Control universe with a stronger action RPG focus. This time, the story centres on Dylan, exploring a broken Manhattan. The release date is yet to be announced.
Melee combat plays a bigger role. Exploration is more open, with optional missions and side stories. If Remedy balances action and atmosphere well, this could reach a much wider audience.
The Duskbloods (TBA)
FromSoftware takes a bold step with a PvPvE experience. Players control vampire-like characters in intense multiplayer matches. Each match can end in different ways.
The focus is on freedom and variety. Dynamic events keep things fresh. As a Switch 2 exclusive, this title could become a system seller.
A strong year for big releases
2026 is shaping up to be a big year for AAA games. Many iconic franchises are returning. New ideas are also entering the spotlight.
It not like all the games will succeed. That is always the risk with large projects. Still, the lineup suggests a renewed push from major studios.
If even a few of these titles live up to expectations, 2026 could mark the true return of big-budget games.
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