The 2026 GOTY Race Starts Now

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With 2026 already half over, it’s time to start considering which game will win Game of the Year in December. The gaming landscape is incredibly competitive right now, with amazing sequels, new additions to existing series, and completely original games all vying for the top spot.

It’s hard to say which game will win right now, with so many releases still to come before the awards. However, it’s clear the competition for the top prize will be fierce. Whether you enjoy horror, action, farming, or any other genre, 2026 is already proving to be an amazing year for gaming, demonstrating what can happen when passion and skill come together.

Rearrange the covers into the correct US release order.

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Results

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More Games

Pragmata

A Story For The Ages

Details:

  • Emotional, character-driven narrative
  • Unique puzzle-like combat

Pragmata is a deeply moving, humorous, and ultimately rewarding game. It’s a fresh, original story that skillfully blends several genres. The narrative centers on the connection between a human and a naive android, and their surprising friendship grows stronger throughout the adventure.

Instead of a traditional third-person experience, the game features a unique hacking mechanic where players dismantle enemies by manipulating internal systems with various abilities. This combination of action and mental engagement keeps players hooked from beginning to end, making it one of the strongest single-player story games in years.

Resident Evil Requiem

The King Of Survival Horror

Details:

  • Incredible dual story
  • Stellar map design and layout

Resident Evil 9 impressively builds upon the established survival horror gameplay of previous games, exceeding expectations and ranking among the franchise’s best. The story follows two protagonists, Grace Ashcroft and Leon Kennedy, whose investigations into a series of mysterious deaths lead them to believe there’s a connection to the events of Raccoon City, ultimately bringing their paths together.

The game clearly draws inspiration from recent installments and remakes, continuing the series’ tradition of mixing intense action with genuine horror. Players will experience both terrifying moments and thrilling combat as Leon showcases his expertise in fighting the undead. It’s incredibly enjoyable and offers everything long-time fans could hope for, while also being a fantastic starting point for newcomers to the world of Resident Evil.

Crimson Desert

Extending The Open-World Genre Further

Details:

  • Breathtaking landscape
  • Unreal depth in mechanics

The open-world gaming scene is already packed with amazing titles, so it’s really remarkable when a new game can compete. When Crimson Desert was first revealed, it promised something special, and the final product delivers. The game’s massive scope, diverse environments, intricate details, and overall depth live up to the hype.

Kliff’s compelling story keeps players engaged for a long time, but the game’s biggest strength is how much there is to do. You can ride dragons, grow crops, battle powerful bosses, and really do anything you can imagine – setting a new standard for single-player games.

Saros

Pushing Those Mechanical Limits

Details:

  • Fast-paced third-person shooting
  • Bullet-hell bossfights and enemy encounters

Returnal really paved the way for Saros, as the two games have a lot in common. However, Saros takes those ideas and pushes them even further, creating a uniquely challenging and satisfying shooter. It borrows elements from roguelike and bullet-hell games, but its perspective makes the action feel much more impactful and intense than similar games.

The game’s unique and intriguing design immediately draws players in and keeps them captivated throughout the story. Critics are already praising it as a standout title for the studio, and it’s expected to be a strong contender for awards this year.

Nioh 3

The Next Wave Of Soulslike Greats

Details:

  • Alternating playstyles in the middle of a fight
  • Huge open areas to explore

Nioh 3 proves that fantastic soulslike games aren’t limited to FromSoftware. This installment features bigger, more open areas teeming with Yokai, and a more complex combat system. Players can now switch between two unique combat styles, drastically changing how the game is played.

The combat is dynamic, switching quickly between fast-paced action and strategic waiting for openings. This creates a satisfying flow to each fight, right from the beginning. Many fans believe this game is the best in the series and a leading example of the ‘soulslike’ genre, successfully innovating while staying true to what makes these games so popular.

Cairn

Climbing On A More Intimate Scale

Details:

  • Inspired by real climbing techniques
  • Personal story that grounds the exploration

Cairn is a game that’s both calming and nerve-wracking, especially if you’re afraid of heights. You play as Aava, a skilled climber, and carefully make your way up Mount Kami. To succeed, you’ll need to plan each step, manage your weight, and watch your supplies to reach the summit.

One of the best things about this game is how seamlessly the gameplay and story connect. Whenever players face a new obstacle, they’re given a compelling story element that explains it, making the challenge more meaningful and inspiring them to persevere – both in the game and in real life.

Pokémon Pokopia

Gotta Farm ‘Em All

Details:

  • Cozy farming spin-off
  • All the classic charm and cuteness in a condensed form

After a long wait, Pokémon fans can now enjoy a peaceful and cozy life with their favorite Pokémon in the world of Pokopia. This new experience shifts away from battling and focuses on activities like farming, building, and simply relaxing with Pokémon from across the entire universe.

The game’s flexible world lets players easily create their ideal, peaceful haven without any enemies to bother them. It’s a simple yet delightful experience that many fans have wished for years, and it could be Nintendo’s best game of the year – and even one of the best games overall.

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2026-05-01 08:35