AI Generated Image
20 Best Video Games of 2026 So Far
Rolling Stone • • technology
Key Points:
- The gaming industry faced significant challenges in 2026, including widespread layoffs, studio closures, canceled high-profile titles like Ubisoft’s Prince of Persia revival, and the shutdown of long-running live-service games such as Destiny 2.
- Xbox recently announced the dissolution of multiple development teams, including one with a newly revealed game, while generative AI controversies are impacting development processes and increasing hardware costs.
- Major releases struggled to meet expectations, with titles like Crimson Desert and Invincible VS underperforming, and the Switch 2 experiencing a typical Nintendo lull with limited new content beyond a Star Fox remake.
- Indie games emerged as the year’s creative bright spots, with innovative titles like Love Eternal, Forbidden Solitaire, and Battlestar Galactica: Scattered Hopes receiving praise for their artistic and gameplay innovations.
- Despite industry struggles, some blockbusters succeeded, including strong entries from Capcom’s Resident Evil franchise, a notable James Bond comeback, and Batman’s return, highlighting standout games of 2026 as recognized by Rolling Stone.
