The best of the best: top released games of 2026
The year 2026 has started very actively, and there are many big releases ahead. Time will tell how much the players' expectations match the real estimates. But already, in just the first quarter, the studios have managed to release more than a dozen recognized hits that should be added to the list of desired games and try to launch at least once. Izvestia has collected the best projects of different genres for every taste.
Esoteric Ebb
Genre: RPG
What to play on: PC
It's a rare example where a game clearly inspired by Planescape: Torment and the modern classic Disco Elysium doesn't get lost in their shadow. The plot revolves around the investigation of an explosion in the city of Norvik against the background of the first democratic elections, and the main character, a loser priest, wakes up in the morgue and finds himself in the very epicenter of intrigue. The game ideologically copies Disco Elysium's dialogue and narrative system: the player's characteristics constantly conflict with each other, and each choice feels important.
Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection
Genre: RPG
What to play on: PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch 2
Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection clearly proves how successful a spin-off of the main series can be. This sequel about the heir to the kingdom of Azuria and the last rider of the Ratalos monster boasts the key criteria of an excellent game: an exciting plot, a vibrant cast of characters and a spectacular combat system. This is one of the best projects in the Monster Hunter universe, which confidently ranks among the strongest games in the main series.
Nioh 3
Genre: RPG
What to play on: PC, PlayStation 5
This Japanese soul-like series from Team Ninja has proven itself well. Nioh 3 was no exception: a number of successful innovations and improvements have been added to the already successful gameplay formula, which make the gaming experience even more exciting. Thanks to the open locations and the still flawless Nioh 3 combat system, it can be considered the best part of the series to date.
Pokemon Pokopia
Genre: RPG
What to play on: PC, Nintendo Switch 2
The Pokemon series has had no luck in recent years: the win-win technique of "same cabbage soup and pour it in" has slowly stopped working. New games were criticized for weak plots, unfinished mechanics and frankly poor graphics. The cozy life simulator about Pokemon werewolf Ditto has become a fresh breath of air - and for many, a real reason to purchase the Nintendo Switch 2 console. Skillfully combining mechanics from Animal Crossing and Dragon Quest Builders, the developers have made a great gift for fans of the series for the 30th anniversary of the franchise.
Big Hops
Genre: platformer
What to play on: PC, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2
If Super Mario is crossed with The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, you get exactly Big Hops. This 3D platformer relies on simplicity and well-honed gameplay, allowing players to skip through bright and lively levels. Big Hops is perfect for any age, literally from 9 to 99 years old. You will play as a roguish spirit kidnapped from home named Diss Frog Hop, who has a mysterious important mission.
Mario Tennis Fever
Genre: Sports simulator
What to play on: Nintendo Switch 2
Nintendo's Mario games consistently rank among the leaders every year, and deservedly so. So in 2026, the players already have a favorite — a new part of the tennis Mario series. The basic mechanics of the sports game remain familiar here, but various innovations have appeared: modes and, for example, Fever racquets, which add variety and an element of unpredictability to each match.
Reanimal
Genre: Horror, Adventure
What to play on: PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch 2
Reviewers of the Little Nightmares cooperative horror series note that the sequels have somewhat lost the unique horror atmosphere of the original. Those who agree with this statement can pay attention to Reanimal. This spiritual heir even surpasses its predecessor games in some ways thanks to thoughtful game design and brilliant character concepts. Although the puzzles here are not too complicated, it is the creepy images of enemies and bosses that leave a strong impression as the brother and sister move through a nightmarish world to long-awaited freedom.
WWE 2K26
Genre: Sports simulator
What to play on: PC, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2
WWE 2K26 does not offer radical changes to the gameplay of the previous installments, but it confidently "fixes" the long list of problems of the series. Soccer matches have become smoother and more exciting, and new types of duels, a story mode dedicated to CM Punk, and a redesigned Island mode take the game to a new level.
Marathon
Genre: Co-op shooter
What to play on: PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S
At the first launch, Marathon may seem overloaded and difficult to perceive, but it's worth giving it a chance, and the action shooter will reveal itself in all its glory. The visual style here is a real feast for the eyes, and every 20-minute trip to Tau Ceti IV becomes a great adventure. What the project will turn out to be in the long term remains to be seen, but now it's safe to say that Bungie Studio has released an exciting game with a rich plot and tactical gameplay, which may become even better over time thanks to post-release additions.
World of Warcraft: Midnight
Genre: MMORPG
What to play on: PC
The eleventh addition of World of Warcraft continues to make large-scale changes to the legendary MMO from Blizzard. It offers plenty of content for both veterans and newcomers: a challenging endgame, long-awaited interface improvements, and a thoughtful personal housing system that allows you to turn a corner of Azeroth into your dream home.
Resident Evil Requiem
Genre: Adventure
What to play on: PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch 2
There have been a lot of laudatory reviews about RE, but it's simply impossible not to include it in the list of great games that have been released this year. The new part is a fusion of everything that people love about this game, including tons of fan service. The concentration of intense horror and action, which have defined the series for 30 years, is brought to perfect values here and complemented with small but thoughtful innovations.
Переведено сервисом «Яндекс Переводчик»
