Top 10 Games of 2026 (So Far)
We’re more than halfway through 2026, and already, there’s been some incredible video games to add to our ever-growing collection. We’re looking for some to rival the very best of last year, like Ghost of Yotei and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. The games that have captured the attention of gamers worldwide. Regardless of genre, there are 10 that have truly shone above the rest. And these are also seriously in the running for game of the year. Through critic reviews, by popular demand, and by taking the internet and social media by storm, here are the top 10 video games of 2026 so far.
10) Esoteric Ebb
If you’re a fan of Disco Elysium, you’re going to feel right at home with Esoteric Ebb. Every decision matters. And rightfully so as a CRPG. CRPGs are having a moment right now, and Esoteric Ebb proves there’s still room for fresh ideas. This dialogue-heavy role-playing game swaps flashy combat for razor-sharp writing, meaningful choices, and a world that begs you to explore every conversation. What makes it stand out in 2026 is its confidence to let storytelling take center stage in a year packed with spectacle.
9) Nioh 3
Team Ninja is back with the third in its Nioh franchise – and it may just be the best yet. Nioh 3 wastes absolutely no time reminding you who’s in charge. Expect punishing duels, intricate loot systems, and the kind of combat that rewards patience as much as precision. While soulslikes are hardly rare these days, Nioh 3 distinguishes itself through its lightning-fast combat, deep weapon customization, and rewarding mastery curve that keeps veterans hooked long after the credits roll. Mark had this to say about it, “Whether by accident or design, Nioh 3 – like Elden Ring – is the best iteration of the franchise to date. It makes the game more accessible without sacrificing core design principles. widening and deepening both the gameplay and the literal areas to explore.”
8) Pokémon Pokopia
Nintendo takes a welcome step forward with Pokémon Pokopia, blending that classic gotta catch ‘em all vibe whilst providing more freedom to explore and interact with the world around you. Where the focus has usually always been on catching Pokémon to become the very best, in Pokopia there’s also a world-building aspect where you can uncover secrets across the region. There’s a new and improved sense of adventure from the moment you set off. In a franchise often accused of playing it safe, Pokopia has earned praise for modernizing the formula while still capturing everything fans love about Pokémon. And the fact that it sold over 2 million copies in just 4 days definitely speaks to just how popular this latest title in the Pokémon franchise really is!
7) Mina the Hollower
Don’t let the charming 8bit pixel art fool you; Mina the Hollower is packed with challenging encounters, clever exploration, and some of the slickest retro-inspired gameplay you’ll find this year. Developed by the team behind Shovel Knight, Yacht Club Games, it combines old-school Zelda DNA with satisfying combat and an addictive burrowing mechanic that keeps exploration feeling fresh. If you’re a lover of old school classics like Zelda, pixel art, or platformers in general, Mina the Hollower should definitely snag your attention this year. Here’s what our reviewer had to say: “Mina the Hollower is a truly magnificent adventure. Burrowing isn’t just a gimmick; it’s embedded into the experience, creating a synergy between movement, combat and puzzling. Its open design encourages exploration, allowing you to discover at your own pace, which ultimately leads to many surprises within the world.”
6) Marathon
Bungie returns to science fiction with Marathon, an extraction shooter where every run feels like a gamble. You’ll scavenge for valuable gear, outsmart rival squads, and decide whether to push your luck or make a break for extraction before everything goes sideways. In a crowded multiplayer landscape, Marathon separates itself through Bungie’s signature gunplay and the constant tension that makes every successful escape feel earned. Squad up with your friends and jump into the fray!
5) Forza Horizon 6
If you thought Playground Games had already perfected open-world racing, Forza Horizon 6 somehow finds another gear. Roaming a breathtaking recreation of Japan, every road invites you to drift, race, or simply admire the scenery from behind the wheel of hundreds of meticulously recreated cars. Beyond its stunning visuals, it’s the sheer polish that has everyone talking, becoming one of 2026’s highest-rated games of the year on Metacritic. Even if you’re not the biggest fan of racing games, Forza proves time and time again just how stunning their games are. Here’s what Rhett had to say about his time playing Forza Horizon 6: “Japan is dense and technically impressive. Vehicles are stunning. And there are hundreds of hours of content to chase if you’re so inclined. The core driving is also better than it’s ever been.”
4) Pragmata
After years of anticipation, Pragmata has finally arrived, with Capcom delivering one of its most ambitious sci-fi adventures yet. Players step into the shoes of Hugh and his android companion Diana as they navigate a deserted lunar research station, using a unique mix of hacking and combat to overcome hostile AI. Rather than relying solely on explosive set pieces, Pragmata stands out by balancing thoughtful gameplay with emotional storytelling, gorgeous visuals, and one of the year’s most memorable new worlds to explore.
3) Resident Evil Requiem
Capcom once again reminds everyone why Resident Evil remains the gold standard for survival horror. As if there really was any doubt…right? Resident Evil Requiem expertly balances nerve-shredding tension, resource management, dramatic action, and terrifying encounters while introducing fresh faces alongside returning fan favourites. Rather than reinventing the series, it perfects nearly every aspect of it, earning widespread acclaim and cementing itself as one of 2026’s best so far. Here’s a snippet from our review: “From its tense, immersive exploration that highlights vulnerability to its visceral combat that revels in brutality, it delivers a nightmare that feels both refined and feral. A masterpiece in horror, and an early Game of the Year contender.”
2) Saros
Housemarque trades endless loops for something more ambitious with Saros, a third-person action game built around intense combat, mysterious sci-fi storytelling, and meaningful progression. Each encounter pushes your reflexes while slowly revealing the secrets of its haunting alien world. The studio has successfully evolved beyond Returnal, delivering an experience that feels familiar without simply repeating the same formula. Here’s what we had to say in our review: “Saros is a masterpiece…While the story is much more present than its predecessor, it never interrupts the action, complementing the deep and complex systems. With more options to personalise your adventure, this is not just a Game of the Year contender, but one of the defining games of its generation.”
1) 007 First Light
James Bond finally gets the origin story fans have been waiting for with 007 First Light. Developed by the minds behind the Hitman franchise, IO Interactive, this action-adventure game lets players step into the polished shoes of a young Bond as he earns his license to kill through espionage, stealth, gadgets, and globe-trotting missions. Rather than leaning solely on high-octane scenes and the Bond name, the game captures the spy fantasy through player choice and clever level design. It’s a confident debut for a brand-new Bond universe and one of the biggest surprises of the year. Not to mention it’s the best 007 game in decades, and that’s a feat all on its own!
How many of these have you played? Are you surprised to see any on the list? Let us know in the comments below or hit us up on Facebook or X.