Top 7 Highlights from Summer Game Fest 2026
The 2026 Summer Game Fest has just concluded, and it was a whirlwind of excitement. This nearly week-long event arrived at a tricky moment for the gaming industry, with major presentations showcasing bold announcements while largely sidestepping issues like hardware price increases and the chaos surrounding live-service games.
Sony and Microsoft both leaned into their strengths, emphasizing exclusive titles and single-player experiences. Meanwhile, publishers seemed to steer clear of the November release window, which is when Grand Theft Auto VI is set to launch, leading to a packed September and several games being pushed into 2027. Fans of franchises like Final Fantasy and Persona were treated to some exciting new reveals.
For those who missed the live action, here are the key highlights to catch up on.
PlayStation is back to its roots with a new God of War
After a costly misstep into live-service gaming, Sony’s gaming division is refocusing on the single-player adventures it’s renowned for. The showcase featured Insomniac’s Wolverine and the unexpected reveal of God of War Laufey.
GTA VI is reshaping the holiday release landscape
Although the next Grand Theft Auto didn’t make an appearance at the event, its influence was palpable. While many games received release dates, few are set for November, coinciding with GTA VI’s launch. Instead, we’re looking at a jam-packed September and a slew of titles pushed to 2027.
Remedy rebounds with Control Resonant after FBC: Firebreak’s failure
After the rocky launch of the multiplayer shooter FBC: Firebreak, Remedy seems to be getting back on track with Control Resonant. Based on our hands-on experience, it looks like the studio is returning to its forte: mind-bending single-player action.
Cult classic indie games make a comeback
Indie developers Metanet are reviving their N series of platformers, this time with a multiplayer twist. Additionally, fans of the hidden object game Hidden Folks can look forward to a sequel, launching a full decade after the original.
Final Fantasy VII’s remake trilogy is nearing its conclusion
It’s official: the third and final chapter of the FFVII remake trilogy is on the way. Titled Revelation, it’s set to launch next spring across nearly all platforms simultaneously. Plus, Queen’s Blood is making a return.
Persona 6 is in the works
After a long wait since Persona 5, Atlus has confirmed that Persona 6 is in development, though details remain scarce, indicating that the RPG is still in the early stages.
Microsoft is shifting back to console exclusives… sort of
After years of a multiplatform approach, Microsoft is making a slight pivot. The upcoming Xbox Game Studios title, Gears of War: E-Day, will be an Xbox console exclusive, contrary to expectations that it would also release on PlayStation, similar to last year’s Gears remake. However, many first-party titles from Xbox, like Fable and Halo, are still set to launch on PlayStation, leaving the significance of this shift somewhat unclear.
