Games

The new open-world game in the popular monster-catching series reimagines famous locations from the original Pokemon games with a unique twist. Villages in Pokopia are based on cities from the Kanto region, like a ruined Fuchsia City becoming the Withered Wasteland and Pewter City transforming into Rocky Ridges. Players can even discover crumbling landmarks from Pokemon Red and Blue, such as Pewter City’s Museum and the S.S. Anne. Recently, a fan discovered and completely restored the Dojo in Sparkling Skylands, bringing the Fighting-type Gym back to its former glory.

Okay, so I thought I had a good handle on my gaming list, but wow, 2026 is already shaping up to be huge! Even though we’re still waiting for news on titles I’m really excited about, like Truth Scrapper and Threads of Time, there are so many other promising games coming out. Seriously, from relaxing, feel-good adventures to totally wild platformers, here are the 10 indie games I’m counting down the days to play.

Generation 1 of Pokemon Champions continues to showcase a preference for certain Pokemon, with a large number being readily available despite the original Pokedex only containing 186 species (excluding regional forms and variations). Powerful strategies are emerging, such as sun-based teams utilizing the combination of Chlorophyll, Sleep Powder, and Heat Wave with Pokemon like Mega Charizard Y and Venusaur to inflict massive damage. Mega Gengar is also popular, functioning either as a disruptive Shadow Tag and Perish Song user or a fast, hard-hitting attacker. However, Aerodactyl is clearly the most prominent and successful Pokemon in the current meta.

Sometimes, a story could have been even better if certain characters had lived longer, allowing for more development or impact. Here’s a look at some of the most compelling characters whose deaths felt premature.

Throughout the various Dragon Ball series – including the manga, DBZ, DBGT, DAIMA, and Dragon Ball Heroes – there are many different versions of Vegeta. However, they all share a common trait: incredible strength. No matter the specific story or universe, Vegeta consistently manages to overcome his enemies and establish himself as one of the most powerful characters in the entire Dragon Ball multiverse.

Many open-world games have become known for giving players incredible freedom, setting the standard for others in the genre. While some, like The Witcher 3, still focus on a strong story, many players prefer to explore the world and create their own adventures, sometimes even ignoring the main plot altogether. A few games offer only a world to explore, letting players completely define their own experience. Let’s look at some examples of these freedom-focused games – and even some where that freedom can be overwhelming.

Though it looked worn and damaged, the ancient book gave him the power to negate magic – a remarkably powerful ability in any world of magic. But Asta’s anti-magic wasn’t like traditional spells; it manifested as swords. This is where his physical strength became important. He could effortlessly wield incredibly large and heavy swords, and he was also skilled at fighting with two swords at once when needed. As he grew stronger, he developed various techniques using his anti-magic abilities.

Released in February 2026 on PlayStation 5 and PC, Nioh 3 quickly became a popular and challenging action-RPG. Developed by Team Ninja, the game is the newest addition to the Nioh series, which has sold over 8 million copies worldwide. Nioh 3 broke series sales records, reaching 1 million units sold faster than any previous title. The series is famous for its complex combat and rewarding loot, often compared to the ‘Souls-like’ genre, but with its own unique style. Team Ninja consistently supports their games with free updates and expansions, keeping players engaged long after finishing the main story. This latest installment has been particularly well-received for its large, open levels and more approachable gameplay, making it enjoyable for both new players and longtime fans.

The last chapter of Boruto left Konoha in a dangerous situation. Sarada’s plan to quickly eliminate all of Mamushi’s clones with her Ohirume ability didn’t work, and as a result, Mamushi’s forces kept growing. Even Daemon, with all his power, was eventually overwhelmed, leaving Konoha’s future uncertain.