As everyone knows, the beginning of each year is the quietest time for the global video game industry. On one hand, major publishers have just gone through intense year-end sales battles, and both merchants and players need time to deal with various issues arising from the turn of the year. On the other hand, the game market needs to conserve energy for the final quarter of the fiscal year, preparing for the next big battle after the calm.—
In fact, aside from games that are on the schedule but lack specific release dates, February is undoubtedly the month with the highest concentration of major titles this year. Early February brings "Dragon QuestVII: Reimagined" and "Nioh 3," mid-month brings "Yakuza Kiwami 3 / Yakuza 3 Gaiden: Dark Ties," and late month concludes with "Resident Evil Requiem." It's non-stop gaming from start to finish.
In comparison, January's game lineup is quite sparse, somewhat implying"Don't think about gaming all the time, focus on work/school." But even so, we've picked out a few titles from our list that might be worth noting, so you don't accidentally miss them during this quiet gaming month.
1.Animal Crossing: New HorizonsNintendo Switch 2 Edition" (Atsumare Dōbutsu no Mori Nintendo Switch 2 Edition)
Release Date:January 15, 2026
Platforms:Switch 2
Developer/Publisher: Nintendo
AsThe first cross-generation upgrade game of 2026, "Animal Crossing: New Horizons" basically adopts the same sales model as previous titles: pay extra to upgrade from the original version, or buy the integrated Switch 2 version directly. Although the core game content remains unchanged, there are numerous functional upgrades leveraging the Switch 2's hardware performance, including higher resolution, support for up to twelve simultaneous players, real-time voice chat linked with the camera, and more intuitive clothing and furniture design using the Joy-Con 2's mouse mode.
But unlike other previousSwitch 2 upgrade games, this version upgrade will also bring the final free content update for "Animal Crossing: New Horizons" in its five-year run. This means that the upgraded "Animal Crossing: New Horizons Nintendo Switch 2 Edition" will be the final complete version of the game. For players who missed out on the title for various reasons, this might be a good choice to make up for the lack of games in January.
For players who have already experienced this title,The content update for version 3.0 is also worth your while to revisit the island. The theme of this update is "Resort Hotel." In addition to adding the classic series character family "Kapp'n" and "resort" themed furniture, this version will also bring a free "Hotel Interior Design" mode. The gameplay may be similar to the previously released "Happy Home Paradise" DLC. Considering this content update is free, it might be a good opportunity to experience the core concept of the "Happy Home Paradise" series, which focuses on interior design.
In addition,Version 3.0 also adds a lot of content updates, which won't be detailed here one by one. But one thing is certain: as a phenomenal work that helped bring home consoles into the mainstream five years ago, this update is definitely worth your while to return to that dusty little house, air it out, change the atmosphere, and exorcise the cockroaches roaming around.
2. "Dynasty Warriors Origins: Dream Four Heroes" (Shin Sangoku Musou ORIGINS Dream Four Heroes)
Release Date:January 22, 2026
Platforms:PlayStation 5/Xbox Series X|S/Switch 2/Steam
Developer/Publisher: Koei Tecmo
I believe that if we consider "DynastyFew would disagree that "Dynasty Warriors Origins" is the most successful entry in the "Dynasty Warriors" series in several generations. Faced with the existential crisis of the franchise, producer Tomohiko Sho's return and sweeping reforms finally steered this action game, beloved by Asian players, in the right modern direction. The strong commercial performance of "Dynasty Warriors Origins" proves just that.
Just as many series fans worried that Koei Tecmo might fall back into old habits and release a"complete edition," the announcement of "Dream Four Heroes" completely dispelled all doubts—just from the scope of content in "Dream Four Heroes," you can see how much effort Koei Tecmo is putting into supporting "Dynasty Warriors Origins."
For "DynastyFor "Dynasty Warriors Origins," the core of the "Dream Four Heroes" makes full use of existing resources—it shifts the focus back to the main story, centering on four key figures drowned out by the tides of history: Zhang Jiao, Dong Zhuo, Yuan Shao, and Lu Bu. It retells the series' signature "What If" stories. For fans of these characters, their fates, different from historical records, are naturally the biggest highlight of this expansion.
Furthermore,The "Dream Four Heroes" will also include three new companion officers and two brand-new usable weapons, further enriching the game's action system and battlefield strategies.
It's worth mentioning that "DynastyDynasty Warriors Origins" Switch 2 version will also launch simultaneously with the "Dream Four Heroes," giving players who haven't tried the game yet another device option.
3. "Arknights: Endfield"
Release Date:January 22, 2026
Platforms:iOS/iPad OS/Android/Windows/PlayStation 5
Developer/Publisher:Hypergryph(Hypergryph)
Amidst the eager anticipation of countless fans, Hypergryph's "Arknights: Endfield" has finally confirmed its open beta date. After several rounds of reworks, it seems to have found its precise positioning within the game genre, and player reception has gradually shifted from initial confusion to affirmation.—and the rest is up to the mass market and time. We are also curious about how a game featuring "factory infrastructure" gameplay will be integrated into the live-service framework.
However, as a gaming media outlet, the release of "Arknights: Endfield" seems to bring some more industry-oriented questions. Its success or failure could significantly influence creative and investment trends in the anime-style game market for the next few years, which is also quite an interesting matter.
4. "Highguard"
Release Date:January 27, 2026
Platforms:PlayStation 5/Xbox Series X|S/Steam
Developer/Publisher: Wildlight Entertainment
"Highguard" arrived like a sudden rainstorm, unexpectedly appearing in aappeared as the "finale" on the TGA stage at the end of 2025, then suddenly announced a direct release the following January, leaving little time for reaction. The incredibly short marketing cycle has left it shrouded in mystery—when did development start, and who are the backers? Everythinggj remains unknown... But one thing is certain: "Highguard" will definitely not be a game lacking in funds.
Although information is limited, we currently know that most of the developers come from former Respawn Entertainment, and many of them previously worked on "Titanfall" and "Apex Legends." This "top-tier" industry pedigree seems to give "Highguard" the confidence to continue releasing a traditional multiplayer competitive game in such a fiercely competitive market environment.
If we were to pinpoint the most unique aspect of "Highguard," it would probably be its"unconventional" worldview and art style. While most similar games look to the future or near-future, this one sets its stage between fantasy and sci-fi. In less than three minutes of trailer, it showcases a super mashup of elements: medieval castles and fortresses, laser weapons with flashy light effects, and clashes of magic and holy swords. It seems to have utilized every trendy or once-trendy video game element available.
"Highguard" still sticks to the mainstream multiplayer competitive template: traditional PvP, point capture, and payload push. It's hard to glean much more from the trailer alone, but considering the game is launching soon, fans of this genre might want to keep an eye on it.—
After all, you never know who the next big multiplayer hit will be.
5. "Romance of the Three Kingdoms 8 REMAKE Power-Up Kit" (San Goku Shi 8 REMAKE with Power-Up Kit)
Release Date:January 29, 2026
Platforms:PlayStation 4/PlayStation 5/Switch 2/Windows/Steam
Developer/Publisher: Koei Tecmo
Similarly,As for Koei's other flagship "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" series, which also uses the "Three Kingdoms" theme, its commercial strategy can only be described as "conventional."
In "Romance of the Three KingdomsOne year after the release of "Romance of the Three Kingdoms 8 REMAKE," the "Power-Up Kit" with new features has finally arrived. With new scenarios, events, talents, Chinese voiceovers, and the "Fortune" system, Koei seems to be attempting to restore the reputation of "Romance of the Three Kingdoms 8 REMAKE" with this "comprehensive enhancement."
Honestly, regarding this expected"version enhancement," I really don't know how to introduce it further—I can only say, those who know, know. Some games are always a willing buyer and seller situation, because having expectations isn't a bad thing. The good news is, if you already own the original "Romance of the Three Kingdoms 8 REMAKE," you can experience all the content of the "Power-Up Kit" by purchasing the upgrade pack separately.
6. "Cairn"
Release Date:January 29, 2026
Platforms:Steam
Developer/Publisher: The Game Bakers
Since the last century,"Mountain Climbing Simulation" is a somewhat unique game genre. It's definitely niche, but has always been pursued by some狂热 enthusiasts—perhaps because most of us lack the determination and resources to practice it personally, yet can't suppress our inner longing for adventure in realistic settings.
And "Cairn," scheduled for release at the end of the month, is an indie game that can satisfy yourdesire to "climb to the peak": Players take on the role of a professional mountaineer, using climbing gear and their own judgment to challenge the peak known as the "God's Mountain" in harsh conditions.
Like most similar games of this generation, "Cairn" invests heavily in recreatingthe act of "rock climbing" itself. Before actual climbing, players need to analyze the rock face, find the best holds, plan the safest and most reasonable route, and manage equipment and supplies—only thorough preparation ensures the highest chance of success. The climbing process itself is no simple task; even with a planned route, you must be ready for unexpected events. A single mistake can ruin Everythinggj. From macro to micro, every detail must be handled correctly. "Cairn" is exactly this kind of game.
However, challenges and dangers aren't Everythinggj; steep peaks also bring beautiful scenery and stories. The development team for this game,The Game Bakers previously released "Furi" and "Haven," action-narrative games with distinct visual styles, and this experience has been carried over to "Cairn." So, besides enthusiasts of the niche "mountain climbing simulator" genre, this game might also be worth trying for players who enjoy cinematic storytelling and in-game photography.
7. "Chaos Makaiズム" (Chaos Makaiズム)
Release Date:January 29, 2026
Platforms:PlayStation 5/Switch/Switch 2
Developer/Publisher: Nippon Ichi Software / Clouded Leopard Entertainment
For those who love classicSRPG players, Nippon Ichi Software's "Disgaea" series has always occupied an irreplaceable position in this genre—whether it's the absurd character stories, the inexplicable stat inflation of units, or Yuichi Harada's unique illustration style and character design, it has established its own style, cultivating a large number of passionate fans over the past twenty-plus years.
Therefore, at last year's Nippon Ichi Software press conference, the appearance of "Ranma Makai Shugi" seemed somewhat unconventional. Key settings of the Netherworld, the penguin-like demon Prinny, and the inexplicably large numerical values all seem to hint: this is a"Disgaea" game—but looking at the gameplay, you can't help but feel unfamiliar with its mechanics.
"Ranma Makai Shugi" isthe first action game in the "Disgaea" universe, and even the first "musou"-style action game... This is somewhat unsettling, after all, "Musou" games are notoriously difficult to make, and even major studios like Koei Tecmo, with decades of experience, sometimes stumble. But on second thought, this sudden spirit of challenge does align with Nippon Ichi Software's characteristic purity and recklessness.
Besides adoptingIn addition to the rare life-sized character models in "Disgaea," "Ranma Makai Shugi" largely follows the original series' settings. Therefore, in this game, players can see the one-versus-thousands spectacle and character development common in "Musou" games, as well as the massive damage numbers characteristic of "Disgaea." Furthermore, for fans of "Disgaea," the most unmissable aspect is fighting alongside classic characters from the series such as the "Night Clan" and "Catgirls." Perhaps, with its new system and character designs, it might just offer a change of pace for players accustomed to traditional SRPG modes.
8. "Code Vein II" (CODE VEIN II)
Release Date:January 29, 2026
Platforms:PlayStation 5/Xbox Series X|S/Steam
Developer/Publisher: Bandai Namco
If we must find ablockbuster," then "Code Vein II," published by Bandai Namco, is probably one of the few games that can match this title in terms of scale and promotional cycle, and may also be one of the few "Soulslike" games recently.
The original "Code Vein" was born inIn 2019, when "Soulslike" games were just becoming popular, fully inheriting the genetic lineage of Shift's "God Eater" series, it became one of the few anime-rendered "Soulslike" games with qualified action performance on the market. On the other hand, compared to most other "Soulslike" games at the time that were closer to the original style, attempting to gain recognition through fragmented storytelling and piled-up difficulty, "Code Vein" deliberately controlled the overall difficulty, offering more leniency to ordinary players. Combined with its classic story progression, it secured a place in the upcoming "Soulslike" wave.
And coming soon at the end of the month is "Code VeinII" also follows the previous game's approach, continuing the story between humans and vampires. In addition to the five weapon types already present in the previous game, this installment will add two new weapons. Building on the core gameplay of the previous "dungeon exploration RPG," this game will also provide a huge "open world" map for players to explore freely.
More interestingly, "Code VeinII" will use "time travel" as its main narrative tool. With the help of partners, players need to go back 100 years to fight alongside companions with different personalities and abilities to avert the impending apocalypse in the future. It is worth noting that players' actions 100 years ago will directly impact the future, and past companions may even stand on the opposite side due to changes in history. The uncertainty brought by history and time travel seems to make this game less straightforward than its predecessor.
