What Are the Most Anticipated Video Game Sequels Coming in 2026 and Beyond?

As we look ahead to the upcoming years in gaming, several highly anticipated titles are poised to make a significant impact on the industry. From the much-anticipated release of GTA 6 to the next instalment in the beloved Witcher series, the gaming landscape is gearing up for an exciting evolution. This article delves into the most talked-about games set to release in the next few years, highlighting what makes them unique and why they matter to players worldwide.

Last updated: 07 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• GTA 6 is set for a massive launch on May 26, 2026, after 12 years since the previous title.
• Resident Evil Requiem will introduce a new protagonist and is scheduled for release on February 27, 2024.
• The Witcher 4 promises a new saga with Ciri leading the way, expected after 2026.
• New entries in iconic franchises like Final Fantasy, Mario, and Kingdom Hearts are on the horizon.
• Several upcoming titles are shrouded in secrecy, generating immense speculation and excitement among gamers.

The Grand Arrival of GTA 6

After a staggering 12-year wait since the launch of Grand Theft Auto V, the gaming community is buzzing about the impending release of GTA 6. Scheduled for launch on May 26, 2026, this title is not just a sequel; it’s positioned to be the biggest game of all time. Rockstar Games has set high expectations with visually stunning trailers that hint at a gripping narrative centred around a romantic duo, a departure from the franchise's traditional themes.

The anticipation surrounding GTA 6 is palpable, with many fans already preparing for a cultural event, similar to its predecessor's impact. The game promises to include an expansive open world, intricate storytelling, and possibly new gameplay mechanics that could redefine the series.

Resident Evil Requiem: The Next Chapter in Horror

Set for release on February 27, 2024, Resident Evil Requiem is the direct sequel to Resident Evil Village. This entry introduces Grace Ashcroft as the new protagonist, who will encounter a terrifying new monster. Given the critical acclaim of its predecessor, expectations are high for this instalment to either reinvent the series or continue its well-trodden path of survival horror.

Fans of the franchise can expect compelling gameplay, rich storytelling, and the trademark atmosphere that has made Resident Evil a household name. As the release date approaches, excitement continues to build, with gamers eager to see how this new chapter unfolds.

The Anticipation for The Witcher 4

After the monumental success of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt and its accompanying Netflix adaptation, The Witcher 4 has become one of the most awaited titles in gaming. Although it isn’t expected to release until after 2026, early trailers have already ignited intrigue. With Ciri stepping into the lead, players are excited about the potential for a fresh narrative and new gameplay elements that could rejuvenate the series.

CD Projekt is known for its commitment to immersive storytelling and expansive worlds, so the anticipation is not without merit. The Witcher 4 could very well set a new standard for RPGs when it finally arrives.

What's Next for Mario?

Mario remains one of the most iconic figures in gaming history, and the gaming community is eagerly awaiting the next 3D Mario adventure. Although no official announcement has been made, it has been eight years since Super Mario Odyssey, leading many to speculate that a new title is imminent. With high expectations following projects like Bowser’s Fury, Nintendo’s next move is highly anticipated.

The next Mario game could not only enhance gameplay mechanics but also introduce innovative features that leverage the capabilities of new consoles, promising to captivate both long-time fans and newcomers alike.

The Future of Final Fantasy

The saga of Final Fantasy continues with Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, which has garnered mixed reviews on its sales performance. However, the anticipation for the trilogy's conclusion remains strong. The completion of this epic narrative will likely draw in new players eager to follow the journey of Cloud, Tifa, and Barrett.

While a release date for the final entry has yet to be revealed, the franchise's enduring popularity ensures that Final Fantasy will remain a central topic in gaming discussions for years to come.

A New IP from Naughty Dog

Renowned for their work on Uncharted and The Last of Us, Naughty Dog is developing a new intellectual property (IP) that aims to establish a fresh franchise for PlayStation. Although little is known about this project, the involvement of Tati Gabrielle and the developer's reputation for high-quality storytelling suggests that this title will be a significant addition to the gaming landscape. It is expected to launch after 2026, but the excitement is already palpable.

Animal Crossing: The Next Chapter

The success of Animal Crossing: New Horizons during the pandemic has left fans eager for the next iteration. While a sequel has not been officially announced, the release of the Switch 2 has created an ideal opportunity for Nintendo to introduce a new entry in this beloved franchise. Given the immense popularity and the game's ability to connect with a diverse audience, this sequel is likely to be one of Nintendo's top priorities.

New Ventures in the 007 Franchise

The upcoming game, 007: First Light, promises to reimagine the James Bond narrative, featuring a younger version of Bond, played by Patrick Gibson. Developed by IO Interactive, known for the Hitman series, this title aims to blend stealth and action within a cinematic experience. As the franchise evolves, fans are intrigued by how this new direction will unfold.

God of War: What Lies Ahead?

Though details remain scarce, Santa Monica Studio is reportedly working on a new God of War project. Job listings suggest it may be a prequel set in Ancient Greece, potentially focusing on smaller-scale storytelling compared to the recent God of War Ragnarök. Given the franchise's history, any new God of War title is likely to generate significant interest and excitement.

The Elder Scrolls VI: A Long-Awaited Sequel

Announced back in 2016, The Elder Scrolls VI has been shrouded in mystery for nearly a decade. With a tentative release window of 2026 or later, fans of this legendary RPG are left anxiously waiting for any updates. Bethesda’s previous successes with Skyrim set a high bar for this sequel, and the gaming community is keen to see how the studio will build on its legacy.

Kingdom Hearts: The Next Adventure

With the announcement of Kingdom Hearts IV in 2022, fans are eager for more information about this entry. While details remain sparse, the anticipation is building, especially considering the lengthy gap between previous titles. The franchise has a devoted following, and all signs suggest that this next chapter could be a significant milestone for the series.

Marvel's Next Big Title: Wolverine

Among the various Marvel games in development, Wolverine by Insomniac Games stands out as one of the most anticipated. The developer's track record with the Spider-Man series has set high expectations for this project. Despite the lack of a release date, fans are hopeful for an update soon that will showcase Wolverine's unique abilities and story.

FromSoftware's New Experiment: The Duskbloods

FromSoftware is known for its challenging games, and their next title, The Duskbloods, promises to take a different approach. This action RPG will support up to eight players in both PvP and PvE modes, and it is set to be a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive. Given the studio's pedigree, expectations are high for this new venture.

Anticipation for Bioshock 4

The status of Bioshock 4 remains uncertain as development has faced various challenges. Although Ken Levine, the series' original creator, is working on a new project called Judas, there is hope that the next Bioshock can carve out a new identity without its founding figure. Fans are eager to see how the franchise evolves in this new chapter.

Gears of War: A Return to Form?

Gears of War has seen mixed success in recent entries, but the upcoming sixth title aims to reignite interest by serving as a prequel set 14 years before the original. With the return of beloved characters like Marcus Fenix and Dom Santiago, this title could help rejuvenate the franchise and attract both old and new fans.

Ōkami: A Surprise Sequel

The original Ōkami title has gained a cult following since its release in 2006, and the announcement of a sequel has generated excitement. With Hideki Kamiya returning as director, fans are hopeful that this new entry will not only pay homage to the original but also expand on its beloved mechanics and story.

As the gaming industry continues to evolve, these anticipated titles represent a mixture of nostalgia and innovation, promising to deliver experiences that resonate with players around the globe. With each new release, the excitement builds, and gamers eagerly await their chance to dive into these immersive worlds. Will you be counting down the days until these games launch? #GamingNews #UpcomingGames #VideoGameReleases

FAQs

When is the release date for GTA 6?

GTA 6 is scheduled for release on May 26, 2026. This highly anticipated game follows the success of GTA V, which launched 12 years earlier.

What is the plot of Resident Evil Requiem?

Resident Evil Requiem introduces a new protagonist, Grace Ashcroft, who will face a terrifying new monster. The game is set for release on February 27, 2024.

Will The Witcher 4 feature Ciri as the lead character?

Yes, The Witcher 4 will feature Ciri as the main character, marking a new chapter in the Witcher saga. The game is expected to be released after 2026.

What can we expect from the next 3D Mario game?

While no official announcement has been made, fans anticipate that the next 3D Mario game will build on the success of Super Mario Odyssey and introduce innovative gameplay features.

Is Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth a sequel to Final Fantasy 7 Remake?

Yes, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is a direct sequel to Final Fantasy 7 Remake, continuing the story of Cloud and his companions. A release date has yet to be announced.