Taking a look at the most Anticipated Video Games of 2026. Let us read below…
The year 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years for gaming in a long time. After a few years filled with delays, remasters, and safe sequels, it finally feels like the gaming industry will rise again. There is a wave of ambitious titles coming our way, including massive open world adventures, cinematic story driven games, and long-awaited sequels that players have been waiting for.
The hype around the Most Anticipated Video Games of 2026 is already huge, and the release calendar looks absolutely packed. Whether someone plays on PlayStation, Xbox, or PC, there is something worth looking forward to. Even Nintendo Switch 2 owners are getting big releases. The competition will be fierce, and picking a single Game of the Year at the end of 2026 might actually be painful.
So here is the list of the Most Anticipated Video Games of 2026, ranked from number 9 to number 1, based on the scale of hype, expected impact, and how much players around the world are waiting for them. This list focuses strongly on AAA cinematic and narrative heavy experiences, especially games that truly stay with us long after the credits roll.
9. Nioh III
Nioh III brings back the unforgiving samurai combat that made the earlier entries so iconic. Fans of fast paced battles and deep skill systems are counting the days until it releases. This time the story is expected to expand more into mythological themes while keeping the brutal precision focused gameplay that the series is known for. Nioh III might not be the biggest blockbuster of the year, but the fanbase is loyal and ready to jump in on day one. For many actions RPG fans, it might easily be one of the Most Anticipated Video Games of 2026 and a strong contender to surprise the industry early in the year.
8. Code Vein II
Code Vein II returns with its dramatic anime inspired world and heavy emotional storylines. The first game was loved for its style, character bonds, and strong atmosphere and the sequel plans to expand everything. Code Vein II already looks visually impressive and promises deeper combat and more character driven storytelling. It is a title that fits perfectly into the ten Most Anticipated Video Games of 2026, especially for players who enjoy a balance of satisfying combat with meaningful story.
7. Resident Evil Requiem
Resident Evil Requiem is Capcom’s next big evolution of the iconic franchise. It is aiming to restart the tone of the series with a darker psychological approach and more cinematic presentation. After the success of recent Resident Evil entries, expectations are extremely high. Fans want new ideas, new characters, and a terrifying experience. Resident Evil Requiem easily qualifies as one of the Most Anticipated Video Games of 2026 and horror fans are already preparing for sleepless nights.
6. Crimson Desert
Crimson Desert is a massive open world action-adventure game that has stunned players every time new footage drops. From brutal grounded combat to large scale exploration and cinematic set pieces, everything about it screams ambition. Crimson Desert looks like one of those games designed to push hardware to the limit. It is visually intense, story rich, and packed with variety. For many players it might be the biggest surprise hit among the Most Anticipated Video Games of 2026.
5. Marvel 1943 Rise of Hydra
Marvel 1943 Rise of Hydra is being built as a narrative adventure set during World War II, starring Captain America and Black Panther. A Marvel story driven title set in a serious historical world is a fresh direction, and the early footage already looks impressive. With strong cinematic focus and high production quality, Marvel 1943 Rise of Hydra has the potential to stand out from typical superhero action games. It is without question one of the Most Anticipated Video Games of 2026 for both Marvel fans and story first players.
4. Blood of the Dawnwalker
Blood of the Dawnwalker is a dark fantasy action RPG created by ex-developers of The Witcher. That alone is enough to fuel excitement. It promises a mature vampire story, player choice, and nonlinear exploration. The world is gritty, violent, and filled with moral consequences. Blood of the Dawnwalker could become one of the breakout hits next year and right now it is gaining traction as one of the Most Anticipated Video Games of 2026 among RPG and story lovers.
3. Marvel’s Wolverine
Marvel’s Wolverine might be the most demanded superhero game in years. Insomniac Games is known for brilliant storytelling and character depth in their Spiderman games, so expectations are sky high. This version of Logan appears darker, grittier, and more grounded. Players want a mature story, intense combat, and emotional writing. Marvel’s Wolverine could easily dominate the second half of next year and is already at the top of discussions around the Most Anticipated Video Games of 2026.
2. Project 007 (James Bond First Light)
Project 007 First Light is IO Interactive’s take on the James Bond universe. The idea of exploring an origin story and becoming 007 for the first time has captured massive hype. IO is known for smart stealth design, immersive locations, and creative mission structure. The world has been waiting years for a proper modern Bond game and 2026 might finally deliver it. And undoubtedly, the makers of the Hitman games are undoubtedly the best choice for making a bond game. So, expectations are high! This is why it stands near the very top of the Most Anticipated Video Games of 2026.
1. Grand Theft Auto VI
Grand Theft Auto VI is easily the biggest entertainment release of 2026 across any industry. Wouldn’t be wrong to call it the biggest release of the decade! The scale looks unbelievable. The characters look unique, and the world feels more alive than ever. The level of hype around this game is unmatched. When it launches, the entire gaming world will stop. There is absolutely no debate that GTA VI sits at number one on every list of the Most Anticipated Video Games of 2026. Players are just hoping that Rockstar won’t delay the game one more time!
2026 is going to be a rare year where almost every month delivers something massive or meaningful. If even half of these games live up to expectations, players are in for something special. It is a great time to be a gamer and an even better time to be excited.
