The video games industry rarely follows a script. Big surprises have become the norm.
Last year proved that. A new French studio won Game of the Year. Battlefield 6 beat Call of Duty in annual sales. Then, Saudi Arabia moved to buy Electronic Arts. Few people saw that coming.
Because of this, predicting 2026 is risky. Still, some trends and releases already stand out. From massive launches to major industry debates, here is what gamers should watch next year.
GTA 6 Still Looms Over Everything
Grand Theft Auto 6 remains the biggest unknown. Players have waited for years. Even now, uncertainty lingers.
After two delays and another trailer, the game is set for release on 19 November 2026. If it arrives on time, it will likely break sales records.
As a result, many publishers will avoid launching games neartheirs release window. However, doubts remain. Rockstar recently cut 31 staff, including senior developers. That raises questions about further delays.
Take Two says the date will hold. Still, fans remain cautious.
A Packed Year for Major Game Releases
Even without GTA 6, 2026 looks busy. Many big titles arrive early in the year.
In February, Capcom released Resident Evil Requiem, the ninth main entry in the series. Two months later, it follows with the sci-fi action game Pragmata.
Meanwhile, Sony plans to launch Saros in April. It follows the success of Returnal. Later in the year, Insomniac’s Wolverine arrives as another major PlayStation exclusive.
In May, players can expect 007 First Light, a James Bond adventure from Hitman developer IO Interactive.
Nintendo, Microsoft, and the Race to Impress
Nintendo aims to build on the strong launch of the Switch 2. Upcoming titles include Pokopia, a relaxed Pokémon-style game, and The Duskbloods from FromSoftware.
So far, Nintendo has not announced a new Mario or Zelda game. Still, the company often reveals major titles close to release. Fans should stay alert.
At the same time, Microsoft has promised major announcements at its January Developer Direct. It also plans to release Fable and Gears of War: E-Day in 2026.
With Xbox turning 25, Microsoft may use the moment to rebuild trust after price rises and studio closures.
Indie Games May Steal the Spotlight
Large studios do not have all the attention. Indie games continue to surprise players.
One title to watch is Raccoin. It blends arcade coin pusher ideas with fast-paced score challenges. If history repeats itself, another indie hit could define the year.
Rising RAM Prices Could Hurt Gamers
Hardware costs may rise in 2026. At the center of the issue is RAM.
Demand from AI data centers has pushed manufacturers to focus on big tech contracts. As a result, consumer supply has tightened.
Micron recently shut down its consumer RAM business. Analysts warn this could raise prices for consoles and PC hardware.
Reports suggest Nintendo’s Switch 2 and Valve’s next Steam Machine could become more expensive. So far, game companies have stayed silent.
AI Remains a Flashpoint in Game Development
AI continues to divide the industry. After years of layoffs, many developers fear job losses.
Larian Studios boss Swen Vincke recently confirmed his team explored AI for early ideas. However, he stressed that final games would use human creators only.
While some companies test AI tools during early development, most avoid them in finished products. Legal and ethical concerns remain strong.
Smaller studios often advertise that they do not use AI at all. As a result, debates around AI will likely intensify throughout 2026.
Saudi Arabia’s EA Deal Raises Questions
Saudi Arabia’s plan to buy Electronic Arts shocked the industry. The $55bn deal would place some of gaming’s biggest franchises under new ownership.
Supporters say the move helps diversify the Saudi economy. Critics call it image management tied to human rights concerns.
The deal has already sparked backlash. Some Sims creators cut ties with EA in protest. EA responded by reaffirming its support for player expression.
There are also worries about job losses. EA took on major debt to fund the sale. More clarity should arrive once the deal closes in summer 2026.
A Defining Year Ahead
In short, 2026 could reshape gaming. Massive releases, rising costs, AI debates, and ownership changes all collide.
Whether through a record-breaking launch or an unexpected controversy, the industry is set for another unpredictable year.
