Gaming Trends to Watch in 2026: GTA 6, Resident Evil 9, and AI

Jan 9, 2026, 2:39 AM

Hover over text to view sources

The gaming industry is poised for a transformative year in 2026, with several high-profile releases and significant corporate developments on the horizon. Among the most anticipated titles are Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6) and Resident Evil 9, alongside ongoing discussions about the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in game development and the implications of Electronic Arts' (EA) acquisition by a Saudi-led investment group.

Anticipated Releases: GTA 6 and Resident Evil 9

GTA 6 is one of the most awaited games, with a planned release date of November 19, 2026. Despite previous delays, publisher Take-Two Interactive remains optimistic about this timeline, although recent layoffs at Rockstar Games, including 31 staff members, have raised concerns about potential impacts on development. If the game launches as scheduled, it is expected to break sales records and influence the release strategies of other publishers in 2026.

In addition to GTA 6, Capcom is set to release Resident Evil Requiem, the ninth installment in its iconic horror series, in February 2026. Other notable releases include Pragmata, a sci-fi adventure from Capcom in April, and Saros, a PlayStation exclusive that follows up on the critically acclaimed Returnal, also slated for April. Insomniac Games will introduce Wolverine in the autumn, while IO Interactive's 007 First Light, a new James Bond game, is expected in May.

The Role of AI in Game Development

The integration of AI in game development continues to be a contentious topic. While some studios, like Larian Studios, have experimented with generative AI for early-stage development, they have committed to ensuring that no AI-generated content will appear in final products. The potential for AI to streamline game creation is tempered by ethical and legal concerns, leading many developers to avoid its use entirely in finished games. As the industry grapples with these challenges, discussions around AI's role are likely to intensify throughout 2026.

EA's Acquisition and Its Implications

In a significant corporate move, EA has accepted a $55 billion acquisition bid from a Saudi Arabia-led investment group. This deal has sparked controversy due to Saudi Arabia's human rights record and conservative cultural values, particularly regarding its treatment of the LGBTQ+ community. Critics have expressed concerns about how this acquisition might affect EA's popular franchises, such as The Sims, which has a strong LGBTQ+ following. EA has assured players that its games will continue to be inclusive spaces, but the financial implications of taking on $20 billion in debt to finance the acquisition could lead to restructuring and potential layoffs.

Hardware Challenges: Rising RAM Prices

The gaming industry is also facing challenges related to hardware costs, particularly due to rising prices of random-access memory (RAM). The demand for RAM from AI data centers has led manufacturers to prioritize enterprise clients, which may result in increased costs for consumer electronics, including gaming consoles. Analysts have warned that this could lead to higher prices for devices like Nintendo's Switch 2 and Valve's upcoming Steam Machine, or even delays in their release.

Looking Ahead

As 2026 unfolds, the gaming landscape will be shaped by a combination of major game releases, industry developments, and technological challenges. The anticipated launches of GTA 6, Resident Evil 9, and Wolverine are likely to dominate discussions, while the ongoing debates surrounding AI and corporate acquisitions will have lasting effects on the industry. Players and developers alike will be keenly observing how these factors evolve throughout the year, making 2026 a pivotal moment in gaming history.

In summary, the upcoming year promises to be a landmark period for the gaming industry, with significant releases and developments that could redefine the gaming experience for millions of players worldwide.

Major Video Game Releases for PlayStation, Xbox, PC, and Switch in 2026

2026 is set to be a landmark year for video games, featuring highly anticipated titles across all major platforms. Notable releases include 'Grand Theft Auto 6', 'Resident Evil: Requiem', and 'Animal Crossing: New Horizons' for the Nintendo Switch 2. Gamers can look forward to a diverse lineup that promises to cater to various tastes and preferences.

GTA 6 and the Future of Video Games in 2026

As anticipation builds for the release of Grand Theft Auto 6 in 2026, the video game industry faces significant challenges. Major publishers are experiencing layoffs and project cancellations, while the landscape of gaming continues to evolve with the rise of social media and indie developers. This article explores the implications of these changes and what to expect in the gaming world.

GTA 6 Pricing Insights: No $100 Tag, AI Integration Expected

Former Rockstar Games technical director Obbe Vermeij has stated that GTA 6 is unlikely to have a $100 price tag, aligning with the industry standard of $70. He also indicated that the game could utilize AI technology to streamline development processes, potentially making it the most expensive game ever produced.