The best games of 2026 so far, picked by NPR's staff

NPR's staff has unveiled its selections for the best video games released in the first half of 2026. This curated list provides insight into the titles that have captured the gaming community's attention and achieved significant success so far this year. It helps players discover highly engaging experiences and understand current trends in the interactive entertainment world.

Among the top performers, two major releases truly dominated the market: Resident Evil Requiem and Crimson Desert. These games are often referred to as 'titans' because of their massive scale, high production values, and immediate popularity. They set a high standard for new titles in the first six months of the year, becoming immediate favorites for many players and critics alike. Their strong presence indicates a very successful start to the year for big-budget productions.

Beyond these established blockbusters, the list also highlights the strong showing of certain sequels available through early-access. Slay the Spire 2 and Subnautica 2 are prime examples. These titles, building upon the success of their predecessors, allowed players to jump in and experience the new content even as the games were still in development. Their inclusion underscores a growing trend where player feedback actively shapes the final product. These games were highly anticipated by fans of the original series and did not disappoint, performing strongly despite their provisional status.