As 2025 winds down and we put a bow on another year of incredible game releases, it’s always fun to take a small glimpse ahead. 2026 is shaping up to be yet another banner year for video games, especially with the Nintendo Switch 2 finally on the market. The Temple of Geek staff have listed out our most anticipated games of 2026, and the amount of highly sought-after titles meant we had to leave some out – and these are just the games we know about!
Check out last year’s list here.
007: First Light
IO Interactive is the latest game studio to take on the James Bond license, and what we’ve seen so far looks extremely promising. It follows a younger James Bond throughout a bit of an origin story trope, before he becomes the famed Agent 007. –Myles Obenza
Release Date: May 27
Platforms: PS5, Switch 2, Xbox Series X|S, PC
The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales
Square Enix’s HD-2D visual style has been an absolute boon for both the company and the RPG genre, but until now, everything has been turn-based. The Adventures of Elliott represents what can be the first foray into action-based combat, while also having a bunch of similarities to Zelda. This can easily be another gem to those that give it a shot. –Danreb Victorio
Release Date: TBA 2026
Platforms: PS5, Switch 2, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Control: Resonant
The original Control from 2019 was one of that year’s best games, and Remedy Entertainment has since expanded its universe with other titles like Alan Wake 2 and the multiplayer shooter FBC: Firebreak. This time around, we play as Jesse Faden’s brother Dylan, who prefers close quarters combat, an interesting departure from the first game. -Myles Obenza
Release Date: TBA 2026
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Crimson Desert
Crimson Desert was one of the biggest surprises of last year when we previewed it at various events. It has the look of an open-world RPG, but it’s actually more of an open-world action-adventure game. Combat mechanics seem pretty dense based on the hours put into it, but they get an early pass because we got the ability to RKO grunts out of nowhere. -Danreb Victorio
Release Date: March 19
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Diablo IV: Lord of Hatred
Several years ago, I was drawn to Diablo IV because of the cinematic trailer and my instant infatuation with Lilith herself. So, it’s really no surprise to me the trailer for their second DLC for Diablo IV has me hook, line, and sinker. Two new classes, a brand new campaign, and pre-order bonuses, including getting to play the newly announced class – Paladin – right now. There are four bundle options to choose from and I will absolutely be buying the ultimate edition as I am a sucker for cosmetics and early access. –Jamie Lesk
Release Date: April 28
Platforms: Xbox One, Xbox X|S, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC
Dosa Divas
The next project from the team that brought us Thirsty Suitors is shaping up to be an engaging, active, turn-based RPG with QTE mechanics, but that isn’t the best part. The game is also a nod to the culture of food and flavor, which should definitely satiate hunger for anyone that tries it. Just kidding, it’ll just make you hungry. -Danreb Victorio
Dragon Quest VII Reimagined
We’ve had plenty of Dragon Quest remasters over the last couple of years, and Dragon Quest VII Reimagined aims to continue this trend. While I’m personally more looking forward to Dragon Quest XII: the Flames of Fate, this remake of the 2000 PlayStation original is another faithful recreation of a fan-favorite with plenty of modernized updates to visuals, music, and gameplay. -Myles Obenza
The Duskbloods
FromSoftware announcing a new IP instantly becomes an industry moment. Their work on Elden Ring, Sekiro, Bloodborne, and Armored Core has shaped entire genres and introduced design philosophies that other studios chase for years. The idea that they are building something completely fresh fills me with a level of excitement few studios can generate. Whatever The Duskbloods becomes, it already feels like a defining release for 2026. –Kurosh Jozavi
Release Date: TBA 2026
Platforms: Switch 2
Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly Remake
As the resident horror sicko here at Temple of Geek, I’m very much looking forward to this remake. I’m aware that it’s generally accepted as the best in the series, and since I’ve yet to experience it, I’m excited to check out the Camera Obscura gameplay mechanics and the insanely terrifying enemy designs. -Myles Obenza
Release Date: March 12
Platforms: PS5, Switch 2, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave
Fire Emblem: Three Houses remains one of my favorite tactical RPG experiences, so learning that the same development team is leading Fortune’s Weave immediately pushed it to the top of my most anticipated list. With the Switch 2 offering more room for ambitious storytelling, larger battles, and deeper systems, this installment has the potential to become the next major milestone for the franchise. Everything about it signals a must-watch title for 2026. -Kurosh Jozavi
Release Date: TBA 2026
Platforms: Switch 2
Grand Theft Auto VI
Probably most folks’ most anticipated game of 2026, Grand Theft Auto VI got the delay treatment a handful of times. Being pushed back to November 19, 2026 feels like enough time for it to sufficiently cook, and I’m patiently waiting to check this out. I don’t have much experience with the series overall, but with the popularity of GTA V, I’m sure I’m in for quite the surprise when this finally launches. -Myles Obenza
Release Date: November 19
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S
Halloween
Asymmetric horror games based on cult-classic film IP are a dime a dozen these days, but I’m looking forward to Halloween regardless. As a big fan of the movies, I enjoy how developer Illfonic has designed Michael Myers’ gameplay mechanics, and playing as him looks incredibly fun. -Myles Obenza
Release Date: September 8
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
High on Life 2
Squanch Games’ first video game outing in 2022 was a surprise delight. The raunchy humor and meta jokes you’d expect from these folks are on full display here, and the gameplay, while not revolutionary, was engaging and intuitive. The sequel promises the same vibes, and now you get a skateboard. What more could you want? -Myles Obenza
Release Date: February 13
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S
The Legend of Heroes: Trails Beyond the Horizon
Hot off the heels of the remake of the original Trails game, Trails Beyond the Horizon is the game that officially catches the west up with the series. The series’ most seasoned fans thought we’d never get here, but here’s to Trails taking another step at getting the attention it deserves. -Danreb Victorio
Release Date: January 15
Platforms: Switch, Switch 2, PC
LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight
The LEGO games have always been pretty samey, but the idea of playing the Batman films and the Arkham games in brick form is a novel enough idea that has me pretty excited. The iconic rogue’s gallery, familiar LEGO gameplay, and humor ensure that it’s a day-one for me. -Myles Obenza
Release Date: May 29
Platforms: PS5, Switch 2, Xbox Series X|S
Marathon
In April 2025, a cinematic short was released by Bungie, the studio known for Halo and Destiny 2, that I proceeded to watch 2-3 times a day for weeks. It depicted a brightly colored, cyberpunky post-apocalyptic world whose narrative was told through the lens of an extraction shooter. Players navigated the world in shells known as “runners”, fighting both other players and AI alike. Its name? Marathon. Bungie decided to resuscitate their first IP but in a bold new way. And I have been patient as the release date was pushed. But the wait is almost over as Bungie released a vidoc mid-December with the intended release in spring of 2026 at a modest price point of around $39. Will I see you on Tau Ceti IV? -Jamie Lesk
Release Date: March 2026
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Mario Tennis Fever
It wouldn’t be a new Nintendo generation without the requisite sports title. The Mario Tennis games have always been a personal of mine dating all the way back to the N64. Mario Tennis Fever aims to add a ton of new features to keep the series fresh, complete with a robust multiplayer mode and campaign. -Myles Obenza
Release Date: February 12
Platforms: Switch 2
MIO: Memories in Orbit
MIO’s art style instantly grabbed my attention during a random scroll through yet another Steam sale. Focus Entertainment, the game’s publisher, tends to make quality games but sometimes the stories and genre just aren’t my thing. MIO: Memories in Orbit is 100% “my thing”. Gorgeous visuals and haunting music is the backdrop for this dark, emotional tale of MIO traversing a dying world whose AI caretakers have abandoned them – foreshadowing anyone? -Jamie Lesk
Release Date: January 20
Platforms: PS5, Xbox X|S, Switch, Switch 2, PC
Mixtape
This game was an absolute hit at Summer Game Fest and it’s been radio silent since then. Once it finally comes out, and hopefully it’s this year, there will be no other game in the near future that’ll come near the “vibes” that Mixtape has. From a rockin’ soundtrack to characters and moments that’ll make John Hughes smile, Mixtape is set to be more than a sleeper hit. -Danreb Victorio
Mouse: P.I. For Hire
We got to go hands-on with Mouse: P.I. For Hire during Summer Game Fest and came away impressed. The first-person gameplay mixed with the vintage cartoon art style are extremely unique and work together well, and the Metroid Prime and Doom 2016 influences are clear and implemented well. Really excited for this one. -Myles Obenza
Onimusha: Way of the Sword
Capcom really doesn’t miss. This is another one I’ve had the privilege of getting hands-on with a few times, and each time I leave wanting more. It has Soulslike mechanics, but it’s significantly more forgiving than From’s brutally difficult games. If only we could get a release date. -Myles Obenza
Phantom Blade Zero
Like Onimusha: Way of the Sword, Phantom Blade Zero takes the guise of a Soulslike but is much more accessible. I’ve played this a handful of times as well, and what I’ve experienced feels snappy, balanced, and tons of fun. We finally get to put our grubby little hands on it this year. -Myles Obenza
Pokémon Champions
GameFreak exploring competitive battling through its own dedicated title is one of the most intriguing Pokémon decisions in years. I am curious whether it will dilute the core battling identity or give competitive play the room it has always needed to flourish. A specialized project could refine balance, pacing, and strategy in ways the mainline series often struggles to prioritize. If Pokémon Champions fully commits to a competitive mindset, it could reshape how fans approach battling altogether. -Kurosh Jozavi
Pragmata
Another one I’ve had the pleasure of getting early hands-on time with, Capcom’s Pragmata is shaping up to be one of 2026’s biggest surprises. The unique real-time hacking mechanic adds an extra layer to its combat, and doesn’t feel clunky or confusing. Jury’s still out on whether this is a secret Mega Man game, though. -Myles Obenza
Reanimal
Tarsier Studios is known for originally developing the Little Nightmares games, and they make their grand return with Reanimal. It sports the same creepy vibe and platforming gameplay you’d expect for a game like this. I’m interested to see how the holds up next to the excellent Little Nightmares III. -Myles Obenza
Replaced
Sad Cat Studios’ Replaced is a gorgeous 2D adventure game reminiscent of Blade Runner. The combat looks great, and the beautiful lighting and visuals have piqued my interest since it was revealed. Luckily, I only have to wait a short couple of months to finally get my hands on it. -Myles Obenza
Release Date: March 12
Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PC
Resident Evil Requiem
While I’m excited to have Leon, our favorite sassy boy, back, I’d have preferred to let Grace have the entire spotlight or bring a character like Jill Valentine back. Either way, Resident Evil Requiem is easily my personal most anticipated game of 2026. As a massive fan of the franchise, I’m eager to see where the story goes after the Winters’ arc wrapped. -Myles Obenza
Release Date: February 27
Platforms: PS5, Switch 2, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Saros
Housemarque’s work on Returnal demonstrated how brilliantly they merge kinetic action with unsettling sci-fi atmosphere. Saros looks like a confident progression of that identity. The early glimpses suggest something familiar in tone yet significantly more ambitious in scale and mood. I am fully ready for whatever strange, stylish experience this team is crafting. Their willingness to iterate on their strengths tends to result in unforgettable games, and Saros feels poised to continue that trend. -Kurosh Jozavi
Release Date: April 30
Platforms: PS5
Slay the Spire II
Slay the Spire changed the landscape of indie design and launched a wave of rogue-lite deckbuilders that followed its lead for years. A full sequel carries enormous potential because the original became a blueprint for an entire genre. I cannot wait to see how Mega Crit evolves its systems and surprises players who have spent hundreds of hours mastering the first game. The return of this series is easily one of the most exciting events of early 2026. -Kurosh Jozavi
Release Date: March 2026
Platforms: PC, consoles TBD
Star Wars: Galactic Racer
One of the biggest surprises of the slew of announcements from the Game Awards is Star Wars: Galactic Racer. I grew up playing Star Wars Episode I: Racer on the Nintendo 64, so getting a new entry in this whacky series all these years later is very welcome. -Myles Obenza
Release Date: TBA 2026
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Tomb Raider: Catalyst
We’ve known about a new Tomb Raider title for awhile now, and we finally get to get a glimpse during the Game Awards. Tomb Raider: Catalyst is a new entry in the series and sports a more classic-looking version of Lara Croft, but it’s coming in 2027. In 2026, we’re being treated to Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis, which reimagines the first game built from the ground up. -Myles Obenza
Release Date: TBA 2026
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Yoshi and the Mysterious Book
Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island is my favorite game of all time, so when this was shown off during the last Nintendo Direct my ears perked up. Sadly for me, it wasn’t a remake, but the next best thing: a new Yoshi game in the spirit of the SNES icon. I just hope it’s a little more challenging than other recent Yoshi games. -Myles Obenza
Release Date: TBA 2026
Platforms: Switch 2
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