The gaming industry is always changing. This year surprised many with unexpected events. If you told someone a small French studio would win Game of the Year or that Saudi Arabia would buy Electronic Arts (EA), they might have laughed. But that’s how unpredictable gaming can be.
As we look ahead to 2026, there are several key highlights to watch for in the gaming world.
GTA 6 Release
The arrival of Grand Theft Auto 6 has been highly anticipated. Initially set for late 2025, it’s now expected to launch on November 19, 2026. If it stays on schedule, it will break records. The game’s developer, Rockstar, recently made headlines by letting go of 31 staff, raising questions about whether this will affect the game’s progress. The stakes are high — other publishers are surely planning releases away from GTA’s debut.
Major Upcoming Titles
Several big games are lined up for 2026. Resident Evil Requiem, the newest entry in Capcom’s popular horror series, launches in February. Soon after, the sci-fi title Pragmata follows in April. In the same month, PlayStation exclusive Saros is set to release.
Wolverine, another highly anticipated superhero game, is slated for the fall from the studio behind Spider-Man. May will see the release of 007 First Light, a new James Bond adventure. Nintendo aims to keep the momentum going with its recently launched Switch 2, but fans are hoping for new Mario or Zelda games.
Microsoft is also teasing big reveals, especially for its Fable reboot. With 2026 marking 25 years of Xbox, the company has a lot riding on rebuilding fan trust after some recent controversies.
RAM Price Increase
On the tech side, random-access memory (RAM) is becoming pricier. The rise in demand, particularly from AI projects, has put a strain on manufacturers. Major brands like Micron are shifting their focus to AI, which may affect prices for consumer electronics, including gaming consoles. Reports suggest that costs for Nintendo’s Switch 2 could increase.
AI’s Role in Development
In game development, the introduction of generative AI (GenAI) is sparking intense debate. Larian Studios’ head, Swen Vincke, faced backlash for suggesting that AI could help with early game ideas. While no GenAI content will be used in their games, many developers are exploring its use, albeit cautiously. The ethics and practical limitations surrounding AI remain hot topics among gamers and developers alike.
Saudi Arabia’s Acquisition of EA
The purchase of EA by a Saudi-led investment group is another major development. This $55 billion deal is part of Saudi Arabia’s effort to diversify its economy beyond oil, but criticism has surfaced regarding the country’s human rights record. This deal might also lead to layoffs at EA, which is now facing significant debt.
In conclusion, 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for gaming, filled with new releases and industry transformations. As always, gamers will need to keep an eye on how these developments unfold.
For further insights on gaming, check out BBC Newsbeat.
