When assessing some of the most lucrative areas of business, gaming is right up there. As a form of entertainment, this beloved pastime has kicked even further on in 2026, with gamers currently having an array of enticing virtual opportunities to get stuck into. However, there is even more to come, with a selection of highly anticipated releases coming to the fore in the coming months. 

For gamers, they’ve never had such a strong selection of titles to tackle. Alongside some undisputed favorites, such as Fortnite, Split Fiction, and DraftKings slot games like Cash Eruption Fa Cai Shu, gaming communities everywhere are preparing for a wave of new games that are likely to hog the limelight. In fact, some of the most anticipated releases of 2026 could be some of the biggest games we’ve ever seen. Below, we highlight just some of them. 

Bradley the Badger

Kicking things off with a PC game many experts predict will record big numbers, Bradley the Badger looks as charming as it sounds. Featuring a comical animal creature and some references to an array of classics from the gaming category of entertainment, the adventures on offer in this platformer are expected to be hard to beat. While a release date hasn’t been confirmed yet, Bradley the Badger should be out early this year. 

Crimson Desert

Released on March 19, big things are expected of Crimson Desert. Not only does the game’s map look absolutely huge, resulting in even more adventures to embark on, but there are new warriors, an array of weapons, and nasty demons to experience. A game where almost anything could be lurking around the corner, Crimson Desert is expected to do well when it does hit the shelves. 

Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve

While its release date is currently unknown, Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve is expected to do well when it does eventually arrive. If you’re partial to the odd flight simulator, then this must-play title is worth keeping tabs on. From its relaxing nature to the undoubtedly upgraded graphics, it certainly received a positive reaction when the makers of the game announced Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve at the 2025 Game Awards. As such, many gamers are extremely excited about it. 

Coffee Talk Tokyo

Ever fancied running your very own coffee shop? Well, in Coffee Talk Tokyo you can do exactly that. You have customers to get to know, orders to get right, and a range of issues to address as Tokyo’s local population discovers your delicious drinks and treats. Coming to Switch, PlayStation 5, Windows PC, Xbox Series S, and Xbox Series X in early March, Coffee Talk Tokyo might be worth a look. 

007 First Light

Ever since of the golden days of GoldenEye, James Bond fans have been craving a 007-themed release. Well, in May, 007 First Light arrives to serve up what promises to be a seriously epic package. Just how good it will be remains to be seen, but if you’re pining for another GoldenEye 007-like experience, then 007 First Light might just be it. 

Forza Horizon 6

While there have been some changes behind the scenes at Forza Horizon 6, the latest release from this much-loved series is expected to stand out. The king of racing games for many players, a release date hasn’t been finalized yet, but this top-notch title promises to gain plenty of attention when it becomes available, especially for gamers seeking high-octane racing action. 

Special mention must also go to Grand Theft Auto 6 (November 19), High on Life 2 (February 13th), and Pokémon Pokopia (March 5). 


CLICK HERE TO DONATE IN SUPPORT OF OUR NONPROFIT COVERAGE OF ARTS AND CULTURE

What are you looking for?