2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years in gaming, with major releases spanning every genre. From Soulslike action to survival horror, JRPGs to reboots of beloved franchises, there's something for every type of gamer. Here's your guide to the biggest releases coming this year.
Code Vein 2 - January 30
Bandai Namco's highly anticipated anime-styled Soulslike launches January 30, positioning itself as the first major Soulslike of 2026. With expanded character customization, refined combat mechanics, and cooperative gameplay, Code Vein 2 promises to build on the original's success while introducing new features that make it even more engaging.
A free demo available January 23 gives players a chance to experience the game before launch. The cooperative focus makes it perfect for players who want to tackle challenging content with friends, and finding the right co-op partner can make all the difference in conquering the game's toughest bosses.
Resident Evil 9 - Highly Anticipated
Capcom's survival horror series continues with Resident Evil 9, one of the most anticipated releases of the year. While details remain scarce, the series' recent track record suggests another terrifying, polished experience that pushes the boundaries of horror gaming.
Resident Evil games have always been better with friends, whether you're playing co-op modes or sharing the scares. Finding teammates who can handle the tension and work together effectively makes the experience even more memorable.
007: First Light - Moved to February
The James Bond game has been moved to February, giving developers more time to polish what promises to be a cinematic spy thriller. The delay suggests ambitious scope and attention to detail, which should result in a more polished final product.
Monster Hunter Stories 3 - March 13
The beloved Monster Hunter spin-off series returns with Monster Hunter Stories 3 on March 13. This JRPG take on the Monster Hunter universe has developed a dedicated following, and the third installment promises to expand on the formula with new monsters, stories, and gameplay mechanics.
Monster Hunter games are built for multiplayer, and Stories 3 is no exception. Finding teammates who understand the game's mechanics and share your playstyle can make the experience significantly more enjoyable.
Fable Reboot and Gears of War: E-Day
Microsoft is bringing back two beloved franchises: Fable and Gears of War. The Fable reboot promises to modernize the beloved RPG series while maintaining its charm and humor, while Gears of War: E-Day takes players back to the beginning of the franchise's story.
Both games represent Microsoft's commitment to its first-party lineup, and both are expected to feature strong multiplayer components. Building your squad early will be essential for getting the most out of these experiences.
What Makes 2026 Special
2026 stands out not just for the number of major releases, but for their diversity. From challenging action RPGs to survival horror, from JRPGs to cinematic adventures, there's something for every type of gamer.
The year also represents a shift toward more cooperative and multiplayer-focused experiences. Many of these major releases emphasize playing with others, making finding the right teammates more important than ever.
Planning Your Gaming Year
With so many major releases, planning becomes essential. Consider which games you're most excited about, which ones you want to play with friends, and how you'll balance your time and budget across these releases.
Many of these games are better experienced with a consistent group of teammates. Starting to build your gaming network now ensures you'll have reliable partners ready when these games launch.
Finding Your Gaming Squad
Whether you're diving into Code Vein 2's challenging co-op, exploring Resident Evil 9's horror with friends, or hunting monsters in Monster Hunter Stories 3, having the right teammates makes all the difference. GamerPlug helps you connect with players who share your interests and playstyle, ensuring you're ready for every major release.
2026 promises to be an incredible year for gaming, and sharing these experiences with the right people will make them even more memorable. Start building your squad now, and you'll be ready for whatever this year throws at you.