Kevin’s Most Anticipated Games of 2026
2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years in gaming in recent memory. It’s a year packed with bold new ideas, long-awaited sequels, and creative risks that could redefine genres. As someone who loves games that mix strong storytelling with innovative mechanics, these ten titles have me counting down the days. Here’s why each one has earned a spot on my “must-play” list—and what I’m hoping to experience when they finally arrive.
- Resident Evil: Requiem
Resident Evil has always been my go-to for survival horror, and Requiem feels like a return to form with a twist. The idea of switching between Leon Kennedy’s action-heavy sequences and Grace Ashcroft’s tense, puzzle-driven horror sections sounds incredible. I’m excited for that contrast—moments of adrenaline followed by creeping dread. Plus, the setting in a ruined Raccoon City hotel? That’s classic Resident Evil atmosphere. I want those heart-pounding chases, the resource management stress, and the satisfaction of surviving by the skin of my teeth.
- Marvel’s Wolverine
Insomniac nailed Spider-Man, so giving them Wolverine feels like a dream come true. I’m hyped for the tone shift—this isn’t about swinging through sunny skylines; it’s about raw, brutal combat and a story that digs into Logan’s darker side. I’m hoping for weighty melee fights, claws tearing through enemies, and a narrative that feels personal and gritty. If they capture Wolverine’s vulnerability alongside his ferocity, this could be one of the most memorable superhero games ever.
- Control: Resonant
Control was one of the most unique games I’ve played in years, and Resonant looks like it’s pushing that weirdness even further. A new protagonist, Dylan Faden, and a warped Manhattan setting? Sign me up. I love Remedy’s ability to make environments feel alive and unsettling, and the idea of an action-RPG spin on Control’s formula has me curious. I’m hoping for more reality-bending moments—the kind that make you question what’s real—and combat that feels as stylish and unpredictable as the world itself.
- Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight
I’ve always had a soft spot for LEGO games, but this one sounds like it’s leveling up the formula. An open-world Gotham with Arkham-inspired combat? That’s a huge leap from the usual brick-busting. I’m excited to see how they balance the playful tone with deeper mechanics. Plus, exploring Gotham as LEGO Batman with a full Bat-family roster sounds like pure fun. I want those moments where I’m laughing at a goofy cutscene one minute and pulling off slick combos the next.
- Grand Theft Auto VI
It’s been over a decade since GTA V, and the anticipation for VI is off the charts. Vice City is back, and the promise of a sprawling, dynamic world with dual protagonists has me dreaming of the possibilities. I’m hoping for a story that feels as sharp and satirical as ever, but also more personal—something that makes me care about these characters beyond the chaos. And let’s be honest: cruising neon-soaked streets in next-gen detail is going to be jaw-dropping.
- 007: First Light
I grew up loving Bond movies, so a game that explores his origin story is right up my alley. IO Interactive’s track record with Hitman gives me confidence they’ll nail the espionage vibe—stealth, gadgets, and stylish assassinations. I’m excited for missions that feel like puzzles, where creativity matters as much as precision. If they capture that globe-trotting glamour alongside tense infiltration, this could be the spy fantasy I’ve always wanted.
- Saros
Housemarque blew me away with Returnal, and Saros looks like the next evolution of their bullet-hell brilliance. A roguelite with permanent upgrades and a rich sci-fi setting? That’s my sweet spot. I’m hoping for combat that feels like a dance—dodging, weaving, and firing in hypnotic patterns—paired with a story that slowly unfolds as you push deeper into its alien world. If they can make failure feel as satisfying as progress, Saros will own my free time.
- Marvel 1943: The Rise of Hydra
This one feels special because it’s not just another superhero game—it’s a period piece. Playing as Captain America and Black Panther during WWII opens up so many storytelling possibilities. I’m excited for the mix of cinematic drama and action, and I’m hoping the game leans into the moral complexity of that era. If it delivers big set pieces alongside intimate character moments, it could be one of the most unique Marvel games ever made.
- Blood of the Dawn Walker
A dark fantasy RPG from ex-Witcher developers? That’s an instant yes for me. The concept of playing as a half-human, half-vampire navigating a plague-ridden medieval world sounds rich with atmosphere and choice. I’m hoping for morally gray decisions, branching narratives, and combat that feels brutal yet tactical. If they can capture the same sense of immersion and consequence that made The Witcher 3 legendary, this could be my next obsession.
- Slay the Spire 2 (Early Access)
Slay the Spire is one of my all-time favorite roguelikes, so a sequel is huge news. I’m excited to see what new mechanics they introduce—alternate acts, fresh characters, and deeper card synergies. There’s something endlessly satisfying about building a deck that clicks, and I can’t wait to lose hours chasing that perfect run. Even in early access, I know this will be a game I keep coming back to.
2026 feels like a year where every corner of gaming is firing on all cylinders—AAA blockbusters, bold reboots, and indie gems that push genres forward. These ten games represent everything I love about this medium: creativity, challenge, and stories that stick with you. If even half of them live up to their promise, we’re in for an unforgettable year.
Article By Kevin Austin
