2026 seems like it’s going to be an excellent year for gaming. There are a ton of games I’m looking forward to playing ranging from old favorites and my ever-growing backlog, to brand new releases. Here’s a quick list of games releasing in the first quarter of the year I can’t wait to try.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons (Nintendo Switch 2 Edition)
Releasing on January 15, 2026, Animal Crossing: New Horizons has finally received another update! You can download the update for free on your Nintendo Switch, or upgrade to the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition for $5 which includes the update plus more. For five bucks, I already preordered the upgrade pack and can’t wait to get back to my island, even if I choose to start from scratch.
Mario Tennis Fever
On February 12, 2026, a new sports game will be released within the Mario franchise. Truth be told, I haven’t kept up with the Mario sports games in quite some time. The last game I played in this genre for Mario might have been one of the crossover titles with Sonic at the Olympics. Mario Tennis Fever looks promising from what I’ve seen, and it’s been such a long time since I’ve played a solid sports game. I’m looking forward to giving it a try.
Coffee Talk Tokyo
On March 5, 2026, the third title in the Coffee Talk series, Coffee Talk Tokyo will be released. I plan to get the Nintendo Switch version since that’s how I played the first two games. This visual novel is a heartwarming and cozy title where you talk to the patrons of your café, learning their stories, all while making delicious drinks. I can’t wait to go back to this world.
Pokémon Pokopia
Also on March 5, 2026, we’re getting a brand new Pokémon title! It’s not a main game, nor is it a new generation, but it seems cozy and similar to Animal Crossing, so I’ll take it. I’m looking forward to diving into a farm-like simulation with Pokémon as my villagers, if you will. I have a feeling there will be a story element to Ditto’s backstory and why the area seems to be in ruin. I also have a feeling it’ll make me cry. I can’t wait!
Which games are you looking forward to the most?
Rachel
Often seen as the second player, Rachel grew up watching Kris play video games before she was old enough to pick up a Nintendo controller herself. Now she only sometimes gives Kris the hard bosses to defeat.
In real life, Rachel is a full-time pet sitter and part-time storyteller. She writes game reviews for Pure Nintendo Magazine, and is working on creating her own video game.
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