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2006 saw the launch of the Nintendo Wii, a surprisingly powerful console known for its unique motion controls. While many games added motion controls unnecessarily, some used the technology in clever and innovative ways. Several now-famous gaming franchises began their journey this year, and established series experimented with new ideas. Overall, it was a fantastic year for video games, and here are some of the highlights.

The recent showcase finally revealed the setting for Forza Horizon 6: Japan, confirming earlier leaks. Developers Playground Games announced that this installment will feature the biggest map in the series’ history, complete with changing seasons and recognizable real-world locations, including bustling cities. Players can also look forward to new features like an auto-drive mode and plenty of activities, including ‘Car Meets’ where they can connect with others and share their customized cars.

In early January 2026, LEGO officially launched its Smart Play line, a new take on its classic building bricks. These bricks have multiple sensors that can tell where they are, how they’re positioned, and even detect light, sound, or other LEGO pieces. This allows them to react with lights and sounds. While LEGO’s upcoming Pokemon sets were expected to be the first to feature this new technology, the initial sets revealed don’t have Smart Play capabilities, and more non-Smart Play Pokemon sets are reportedly planned.

The original Zelda games arrived in the West during the 1980s and offered very different ways to play. The first game had a simple overhead view, with little story or interaction. Zelda 2: The Adventure of Link completely changed things up, featuring challenging side-scrolling levels and towns full of people Link could talk to. When the Super Nintendo came out, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past in 1991 pushed the series forward with imaginative dungeons, improved combat, and new items like the Hookshot.

The Transmog system in World of Warcraft received a major update on January 20th with the Midnight pre-expansion patch. Previously, players had to pay separately to change the look of each piece of gear. Now, the new system lets players create and save complete outfits that automatically apply to any gear they wear. Although this could save money over time, it requires an initial investment, as outfit slots must be bought with gold, and the cost of Transmog has generally increased.

Water-type Pokémon are often a popular choice for new trainers, especially the starter Pokémon like Swampert and Feraligatr. Since Blastoise first appeared, many trainers in both the games and the anime have relied on Water-types as their strongest Pokémon. While each fully evolved Water-type starter gets its moment in the spotlight, some become more well-known and memorable than others.

It’s no surprise gamers have largely forgotten many excellent games released during that golden age. Whether those games were based on outdated material, came from defunct series, or simply haven’t held up over time, these 2005 titles are still fantastic, but rarely discussed in 2026.