Discover the 10 best Upcoming RPGs coming in 2026, featuring dark fantasy epics or ambitious open worlds, which are some of the most anticipated game 2026 releases.
RPGs are getting more popular recently, and there is no denying it anymore. 2025 was a defining year for role-playing games, with Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 dominating Game of the Year, other award nominations, and critical discussions across the industry. RPGs like the Oblivion Remake and Kingdom Come Deliverance 2 has also received huge praise. Players clearly want deeper worlds, better characters, better stories, with meaningful choices to make that impacts the world; not just flashy mechanics. That momentum is now carrying straight into 2026, which is shaping up to be one of the strongest years ever for upcoming RPGs. From dark fantasy epics to stylish action-driven adventures and ambitious open worlds, the best RPGs coming in 2026 are already generating massive hype. Below, we look at ten Upcoming RPGs that genuinely matter, not filler, not speculation, but games with real and clear vision. For RPGs lovers, this can be considered the list of most anticipated games 2026.
10. Towerborne
Developed by Stoic, the studio behind The Banner Saga, Towerborne is coming on 26th Februray. The game is a co-op focused action RPG that blends brawler-style combat with RPG progression. Set in a post-apocalyptic fantasy world, the game emphasizes fluid melee combat, character builds, and cooperative play rather than open-world sprawl. Among upcoming RPGs, Towerborne stands out for its arcade-inspired pacing while still retaining RPG depth, making it one of the more distinctive best RPGs for players who value gameplay flow over sheer scale.
9. Code Vein II
Releasing on 30th January, Code Vein II builds on the anime-styled Soulslike foundation of the original game Code Vein. The sequel introduces new characters, darker themes, along with refined companion mechanics while keeping its identity rooted in challenging action combat. As one of the more stylistic upcoming RPGs, it appeals to fans who want emotional storytelling paired with demanding gameplay, earning its place among the best RPGs coming in 2026. If you are a fan of soulslike games, this game might be for you.
8. Nioh 3
Another one of the most anticipated games 2026 for soulslike players, Nioh 3 by Team Ninja returns, continuing its blend of historical Japan and yokai mythology. Known for deep combat systems, stance-based fighting, and extensive loot mechanics, the franchise has always prioritized mastery and player skill. Among upcoming RPGs coming in 2026, Nioh 3 which is coming on 6th February, is expected to further refine its already complex systems, reinforcing its reputation as one of the most mechanically rich best RPGs in the action RPG space.
7. Monster Hunter Stories 3
Unlike the mainline Monster Hunter titles, Monster Hunter Stories 3 is a story-driven RPG that focuses on monster bonding, exploration, and turn-based combat. Set against a backdrop of ecological conflict and political tension, it offers a more story-focused experience while retaining the franchise’s iconic creatures. Among Upcoming RPGs, Monster Hunter Stories 3 represents a different pace of action and stands as one of the best RPGs coming in 2026 for players who enjoy strategic combat and long-form storytelling. The game is coming on 13th March.
6. The Duskbloods
The Duskbloods is a new dark fantasy action RPG from FromSoftware, developed exclusively for Nintendo’s hardware. With gothic aesthetics, blood-driven themes, and a focus on multiplayer elements, it immediately caught attention among Switch RPGs fans. While not a direct Souls successor, it carries the studio’s signature design philosophy, making it one of the most intriguing upcoming RPGs and a major milestone for Switch RPGs in 2026.
5. Beast of Reincarnation
Beast of Reincarnation marks a major departure for Game Freak, moving away from Pokémon into a darker, action-oriented RPG. Set in a post-apocalyptic Japan, the game follows a lone protagonist navigating a brutal world shaped by monstrous forces. With real-time combat and a serious narrative tone, Beast of Reincarnation has quickly become one of the upcoming RPGs gamers are watching closely, and it might be a potential surprise entry among the best RPGs of the year.
4. Phantom Blade Zero
Drawing from wuxia-inspired martial arts and fast-paced combat, Phantom Blade Zero is an action RPG that emphasizes precision, speed, and cinematic flair. Unlike traditional Soulslikes, it focuses more on stylish execution than endurance-based combat. As far as upcoming RPGs go, its visual identity and combat philosophy make it one of the boldest projects and a strong contender among the best RPGs coming in 2026. It is scheduled to release on 9th September.
3. Gothic 1 Remake
The Gothic 1 Remake aims to modernize one of the most influential Western RPGs -Gothic, while preserving its unforgiving world design and faction-driven progression. Set in a prison colony where every choice has consequences, Gothic focuses on immersion, player agency, and systemic storytelling. Among upcoming RPGs coming in 2026, this remake appeals to classic RPG fans and newcomers alike. This title has got players discussing why Gothic is still discussed among the best RPGs ever made.
2. Crimson Desert
Crimson Desert is Pearl Abyss’ ambitious shift from MMO design to a large-scale single-player action RPG. Featuring a massive open world, story-driven quests, and high-production combat systems, the game aims to blend spectacle with depth. According to reports, the game’s map is going to be bigger than that of RDR 2 and Skyrim. Crimson Desert is therefore seen by many as one of the most technically ambitious upcoming RPGs, and easily one of the best RPGs coming in 2026. For players who want scale, freedom, and cinematic storytelling,, this is a game to look out for.
1. Blood of the Dawnwalker
Topping the list is Blood of the Dawnwalker, a dark fantasy action RPG developed by Rebel Wolves, a studio led by former The Witcher 3 developers. Set in a plague-ravaged medieval world inspired by Eastern Europe, the game is going to focus on player choice and time-sensitive storytelling. Considering the fact that it is coming from Witcher 3 developers, the game is surely set to go beyond our expectations. Blood of the Dawnwalker promises a unique and interesting story and it is already seen in the lists of most anticipated games 2026 contender. This game definitely stands tall among all upcoming RPGs.
If you loved this list of Upcoming RPGs coming in 2026, make sure to also check our list of the most anticipated horror games of 2026.
If you are looking for a general list, without focus on RPGs, you can read this list of the nine most anticipated games 2026.
