2026 Set to Be a Landmark Year for Gaming With Major Franchise Returns

The year 2026 is shaping up to be a major milestone for the video game industry. Developers are preparing high-profile releases that aim to redefine gameplay, storytelling, and technical ambition.

Major franchises are returning with bold new ideas. At the same time, fresh titles promise new experiences for long-time fans and new players. Studios are now fully utilising next-generation hardware to push creative and technical boundaries.

Several long-awaited games will launch on consoles and PC in 2026. These releases bring back iconic characters while introducing new narratives and gameplay mechanics. Industry analysts see the upcoming slate as a sign of growing ambition across the sector.

Some of the most anticipated titles include Cairn, Reanimal, Resident Evil Requiem, Pokémon Pokopia, 007 First Light, Saros, Grand Theft Auto VI, Marvel’s Wolverine, Witchbrook, and Halo: Campaign Evolved.

Games due for release in 2026 include:

Grand Theft Auto VI
Marvel’s Wolverine
Ace Combat 8
Resident Evil Requiem
Phantom Blade 0
Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis
Saros
The Duskbloods
Diablo IV: Lord of Hatred
007 First Light
Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight
Control Resonant… pic.twitter.com/shvz2nM5Mt

— The Game Awards (@thegameawards) January 1, 2026

Among them, Grand Theft Auto VI stands out as the most talked-about release. The game takes place in a fictional, Florida-inspired setting and follows criminal partners Lucia and Jason. Rockstar Games is expected to deliver sharp satire alongside a vast open world. With a planned release later in the year, expectations remain exceptionally high.

Another title drawing strong attention is 007 First Light, developed by IO Interactive. The game explores the early life of James Bond before he earns his 00 status. This origin-focused approach marks a new direction for the franchise and has generated strong interest among fans.

From Resident Evil: Requiem and 007 First Light to Grand Theft Auto 6 and Marvel's Wolverine, these are the biggest games coming in 2026. What are you looking forward to? https://t.co/ZKckLiR5bq pic.twitter.com/ozJcgnY8pB

— IGN (@IGN) January 1, 2026

Survival horror fans also have reason to look forward to 2026. Resident Evil Requiem introduces two contrasting protagonists: Grace, a nervous newcomer, and veteran agent Leon S. Kennedy. Together, they face new threats in a reimagined Raccoon City that blends classic tension with modern gameplay systems.

It Happens on PlayStation 5.

PlayStation has highlighted some of the big 2026 releases on platform including Marvel's Wolverine, Halo: Campaign Evolved, and Resident Evil Requiem. pic.twitter.com/hVUS41lLaT

— The Game Awards (@thegameawards) January 2, 2026

Release dates and additional details continue to emerge. Players should follow official developer announcements for the latest updates. If even a portion of these titles meets expectations, 2026 could become one of the most memorable years in gaming history.