2026’s Most Anticipated Action Games: Martial Artists, Spies, Superheroes, and Criminals

Action games continue to evolve, offering a thrilling array of experiences that cater to every kind of player. With the excitement of 2025 still fresh, 2026 promises an even richer diversity in action gaming. Whether you’re a fan of tightly scripted narratives, superhero exploits, stealth strategy, or expansive open worlds, the coming year is packed with exciting titles.

Phantom Blade Zero is Poised for Success

Phantom Blade Zero, set to release on September 9, 2026, for PC and PlayStation 5, stands out with its remarkable blend of traditional kung fu, steampunk, and cyberpunk aesthetics. This title, crafted by S-Game, steps away from the soulslike mold and is gearing up to be a standout action game of this console generation. With its intricate level design, intense combat, and smooth animation, it promises a thrilling experience. Launching this September, Phantom Blade Zero has the potential to be a major success.

Marvel’s Wolverine Promises a Gritty Adventure

A character from Marvel's 'Wolverine' with extended claws on a yellow background, featuring the Marvel logo and copyright date '© 2025 MARVEL'.

Following the footsteps of the acclaimed Marvel’s Spider-Man series, Marvel’s Wolverine is set for release in the latter half of 2026 on PlayStation 5. Insomniac Games shifts away from the open-world format, offering a third-person action adventure that lets players wield Logan’s adamantium claws with power and precision. The game teases vehicle traversal and diverse locales, making it a must-watch for action fans, even those not typically drawn to the Marvel universe.

Crimson Desert: A New World Awaits

The image features key characters and a dragon in a dramatic landscape with the title 'Crimson Desert' prominently displayed.

Launching on March 19, 2026, across multiple platforms, Crimson Desert by Pearl Abyss marks the next step in open-world action gaming. Players will explore the diverse world of Pywel, engaging in castle raids, dungeon expeditions, and combat with formidable foes. With its promise of a vast and varied landscape, Crimson Desert is poised to be one of the standout action RPGs of the year.

New Adventures with 007: First Light

A game character aiming a gun with '007 First Light' text overlay on a shadowed background.

James Bond returns in 007: First Light, releasing on May 27, 2026, across various platforms. Created by IO Interactive, this action stealth game combines the studio’s signature gameplay with the thrill of a spy adventure. Players will experience a young Bond’s journey to earn his license to kill, navigating through intricate scenarios with freedom and style. Featuring stars like Gemma Chan and Lenny Kravitz, it aims to deliver the ultimate espionage experience.

Grand Theft Auto VI on the Horizon

Two characters holding guns on a dock with the city skyline backdrop, under the text 'Grand Theft Auto VI' and a Rockstar Games logo.

The highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI is set to make waves when it launches on November 19, 2026, for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Rockstar Games is expected to push the boundaries of open-world gaming, possibly evolving the experience into an MMO-like environment. With its potential to redefine how music is integrated into gaming, GTA VI aims to be a monumental release.

Honorable Mentions

The upcoming year is brimming with action-packed titles. Here are additional games to watch out for in 2026:

  • Onimusha: Way of the Sword (TBA – PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S)
  • PRAGMATA (April 24, 2026 – PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2)
  • ROMEO IS A DEAD MAN (February 11, 2026 – PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S)
  • SAROS (April 30, 2026 – PlayStation 5)
  • Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties (February 12, 2026 – PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2)