2026’s Game of the Year Race: No Clear Winner Yet, But Some Standouts Have Emerged!
We’re cruising past the halfway mark of 2026, and things feel a bit odd in the gaming world. It’s a mix of excitement and confusion, as we’ve seen both hit titles like Mixtape and Lego Batman take off, alongside massive releases like Crimson Desert that have made waves among players. But when it comes to the coveted title of Game of the Year so far, opinions are all over the place!
Earlier this month, I threw a poll out to you amazing gamers to see which title you consider your favorite, and wow, did the results show a wide range of preferences! A surprising 29% of you weren’t satisfied with the options I presented, stating that none of the nine nominees felt right for your GOTY. Maybe it’s because there are still six months of new releases ahead, or perhaps another game from 2026 has wowed you unexpectedly. Either way, I’m all ears for your thoughts in the comments below!
As for the games that did receive votes, the top contenders are worth noting. Leading the pack is Resident Evil Requiem, snatching first place with 16% of the votes, thanks to the adventures of Grace Ashcroft and her uncle Kennedy. Hot on its trails is Pearl Abyss’ Crimson Desert, grabbing 12% of the overall tally. This game has sparked some debate since its release—being known for its large scale and ambition but also for its somewhat quirky execution. However, the developers have been hard at work, rolling out updates that have significantly improved the experience, winning over dedicated fans who have poured countless hours into the game.
Following close behind, 007 First Light has made a splash too, with 9% of you naming it your GOTY. Slay the Spire 2 and Forza Horizon 6 are not far off, each with 8%, while Pragmata and Mewgenics secured 7% and 5% respectively. The battle for the bottom spot is neck-and-neck, with both the MMO expansion World of Warcraft: Midnight and Bungie’s Marathon holding steady at 383 votes each. The surprise here? I expected Marathon to do better, considering the excitement around it, but maybe the fatigue from extraction shooters is real this year.
For those of you who missed the chance to voice your opinion in the poll, now is your moment! Share your thoughts on what games are catching your eye or call me out for jumping the gun on the GOTY discussions before the year wraps up. Let’s hear what you think should be in the running!