Working closely with weekly game news and upcoming release coverage has been both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, I get early looks at exciting projects and hidden gems. On the other? My wishlist has completely spiraled out of control.
I used to pride myself on keeping it under control, hovering around 400 titles at any given time. Somewhere along the way, that number exploded past 900… and it’s still climbing.
So instead of fighting the inevitable, I decided to embrace it. Below is a curated list of the games I’m most eagerly anticipating as we head into 2026 and beyond. These aren’t ranked by hype or popularity, just by the sheer excitement they’ve sparked in me. Let’s dive in.
Tides of Annihilation
Developer: Eclipse Glow Games
Publisher: Eclipse Glow Games
Genre: Action, Adventure
Release: Coming Soon
Arthurian legend has slowly worked its way into my heart, largely thanks to someone very close to me who adores the mythos. What began as casual exposure quickly turned into a genuine fascination — and Tides of Annihilation feels like a love letter to that world.
The protagonist immediately stood out, both visually and thematically, and the game’s darker reimagining of classic legend is exactly my kind of fantasy. The only downside? We’re still waiting on a concrete release date — and the anticipation is brutal.
Animula Nook
Developer: LilliLandia Games
Publisher: LilliLandia Games
Genre: Adventure, RPG, Casual
Release: To Be Announced
I’ve poured countless hours into cozy life sims over the years, and while a few have come close, none have truly replaced that familiar comfort loop, until Animula Nook caught my eye.
The art style alone stopped me in my tracks. Soft, inviting, and bursting with charm, it feels like the missing piece I didn’t know I was searching for. If you love wholesome games that emphasize atmosphere and gentle progression, this one deserves a spot on your radar.
Outbound
Developer: Square Glade Games
Publisher: Square Glade Games
Genre: Adventure, Indie, Simulation
Release: Q2 2026
Road trips, exploration, and cozy survival mechanics are a perfect mix, and Outbound leans hard into that fantasy. Early impressions already had me interested, but seeing how well the project performed during crowdfunding cemented my excitement.
The idea of setting off on a digital road trip, customizing a mobile home, and simply existing in a beautifully crafted world sounds like a dream. This is one of those games that feels like it’ll be best enjoyed slowly, savoring every mile.
Forsaken Lands
Developer: Lunisky Studio
Publisher: Lunisky Studio
Genre: Adventure, Indie
Release: Q2 2026
Co-op games have been thriving lately, and Forsaken Lands looks poised to add something special to the mix. Deckbuilders are a genre I always mean to play more of, and combining that with cooperative roguelite elements feels like a perfect fit.
With charming heroes, multiple modes, and room for strategic teamwork, this one looks cozy without sacrificing depth, exactly the kind of balance I enjoy.
Bloody Hell Hotel
Developer: Unfold Games
Publisher: Unfold Games
Genre: Simulation
Release: 2026
Management sims are always a weakness of mine, and Bloody Hell Hotel blends that formula with gothic charm in the best possible way.
The visual style walks a delightful line between spooky and playful, and the idea of running a supernatural hotel is endlessly appealing. Plus, any game bold enough to feature an undead cow immediately earns my attention.
Witchbrook
Developer: Chucklefish, Robotality
Publisher: Chucklefish
Genre: RPG, Simulation
Release: 2026
I’ve been keeping an eye on Witchbrook for what feels like forever, and it still hasn’t lost its magic. Life sims centered around community, discovery, and personal growth never get old, especially when wrapped in witchy charm.
The pixel art is stunning, the co-op potential is exciting, and the promise of building relationships and uncovering secrets makes this one feel special.
Moonlight Peaks
Developer: Little Chicken
Publisher: XSEED Games
Genre: RPG, Simulation
Release: 2026
Life sims don’t often stray far from familiar territory, which is why Moonlight Peaks immediately grabbed my attention. Playing as a vampire, brewing potions, and interacting with supernatural townsfolk feels like a refreshing twist on the genre.
The gothic aesthetic is gorgeous, and even as a single-player experience, the world looks rich enough to lose hours in.
Resident Evil Requiem
Developer: CAPCOM
Publisher: CAPCOM
Genre: Action, Adventure
Release: February 27, 2026
Survival horror has been having a strong resurgence, and Resident Evil Requiem looks ready to continue that momentum. Experiencing a brand-new entry alongside the community from day one is something I’m especially excited about.
The atmosphere looks tense, unsettling, and polished, perfect for scratching that horror itch year-round.
CODE VEIN II
Developer: Bandai Namco Studios
Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment
Genre: Action RPG
Release: January 29, 2026
Even without extensive hands-on time with the original, CODE VEIN II has my attention. The visual flair, fast-paced combat, and narrative choices all point toward a stylish and engaging experience.
The promise of meaningful story decisions adds an extra layer that I’m eager to explore.
Vampires: Bloodlord Rising
Developer: Mehuman Games
Publisher: Toplitz Productions
Genre: Action RPG
Release: January 30, 2026
Gothic worlds and vampire lore have always been a favorite of mine, so Bloodlord Rising feels tailor-made for my interests.
Managing a clan, expanding a stronghold, and navigating power struggles, all with co-op support — sounds like an experience I’ll happily sink into.
Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era
Developer: Unfrozen
Publisher: Hooded Horse
Genre: Strategy, RPG
Release: 2026
This one carries a heavy dose of nostalgia. Watching family members pour hours into earlier entries left a lasting impression, even if I didn’t fully appreciate it at the time.
Now, with a modern revival on the horizon, it feels like the perfect opportunity to finally experience the series properly, and share that journey.
Blight: Survival
Developer: Haenir Studio
Publisher: Behaviour Interactive
Genre: Action, Adventure
Release: TBA
Dark medieval settings paired with survival mechanics are a recipe for tension, and Blight: Survival looks dripping with atmosphere.
While not strictly a soulslike, the oppressive world and cooperative gameplay promise intense encounters and unforgettable moments, assuming we survive long enough.
Total Chaos
Developer: Trigger Happy Interactive
Publisher: Apogee Entertainment
Genre: Psychological Horror
Release: November 20, 2025
Closing out the list is Total Chaos, a survival horror experience that leans heavily into isolation and psychological tension.
Guided by an unseen voice and trapped in a collapsing reality, the premise alone is unsettling. The environments look raw, the combat impactful, and the narrative hook is strong enough to keep me intrigued.
Final Thoughts
This is only a fraction of the games I’m eagerly awaiting, narrowing it down was no easy task. But these are the titles that currently live rent-free in my head, and I can’t wait to see how they shape the year ahead.
Here’s hoping 2026 arrives sooner rather than later.
