As we dive into 2026, the landscape for multiplayer games is poised for some thrilling changes. While enduring hits can capture players for years, nothing quite matches the anticipation surrounding a fresh release. This year promises a diverse lineup, featuring a variety of exciting settings and gameplay styles that aim to captivate gamers worldwide.
Marathon (March 2026 – PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S|X)
Bungie’s Marathon reboot has navigated several hurdles on its way to launch. Initially set for a 2024 release, a round of layoffs prompted a delay to 2025. Later complications arose when former Game Director, Christopher Barrett, was dismissed for misconduct and replaced by Joe Ziegler from Riot’s Valorant. Despite ongoing concerns about the game’s quality, a June 2025 delay was announced, giving the team time to make refinements based on player feedback. Last month, they confirmed a March 2026 release, reintroducing proximity chat and adding features like solo queuing and the new Rook Runner for enhanced accessibility. Grass rendering improvements and persistent decay animations for dead bodies are set to elevate immersion. Marathon’s impending debut has fans eager to see if it can secure a lasting place in the multiplayer realm.
Enshrouded (Spring 2026 – PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S|X)
German indie developer Keen Games is making waves with Enshrouded, which has already surpassed its predecessor Portal Knights in early access sales. With over four million units sold by April 2025, this survival game is gearing up for its full release in Spring 2026. Known for blending elements from ‘Zelda’ and ‘Valheim’, Enshrouded is expected to transition out of early access soon, enticing more players with its unique cooperative action RPG experience.
The Duskbloods (TBA 2026 – Nintendo Switch 2)
Fans of FromSoftware are eagerly awaiting The Duskbloods, a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive. Building on the success of Elden Ring: Nightreign, this new title combines PvPvE gameplay where eight players face off against each other and AI-powered foes. The game merges Lovecraftian gothic horror with Steampunk aesthetics, offering a unique multiplayer experience with variable victory conditions such as last player standing or designated ally cooperation. Players, known as Bloodsworn, wield Victorian weaponry, firearms, and steampunk jetpacks, engaging in dynamic battles that prevent gameplay stagnation. This ambitious project promises to deliver another innovative multiplayer experience.
GTA 6 (November 19, 2026 – PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series S|X)
Rockstar fans are on the edge of their seats for the release of GTA 6, especially its online mode. While GTA 4’s online feature failed to capture long-term interest, GTA 5’s has thrived for over thirteen years. Although Rockstar has yet to unveil details, reports suggest the online mode could lean towards MMORPG elements. Rockstar’s acquisition of FiveM’s maker, Cfx.re, back in August 2023, hints at a move towards custom dedicated servers and enriched roleplaying experiences. With GTA 6 set to launch on November 19, 2026, players are hopeful to learn more about it soon.
Cinder City (TBA 2026 – PC and Consoles)
Korean developer NCSoft is gearing up for a bustling year with the global release of Aion 2 and the MMO-like game Cinder City. Set in a post-apocalyptic Seoul, this open-world third-person shooter draws comparisons to The Division. Although the Gamescom 2025 demo highlighted single-player elements, the full game will feature dynamic events, dungeons, and endgame content. Players can expect a variety of characters, each with distinct skills, in this exciting new title.
Honorable Mentions
We have at least five more multiplayer games to recommend you keep an eye on throughout 2026:
Follow Wccftech on Google to get more of our news coverage in your feeds.