January 2026 game releases kick off the new year at a slower pace, as is tradition in the gaming world. Still, there is plenty for gamers to look forward to this month. From long-awaited early access launches to major sequels and stylish indie games, January already offers a solid mix of genres and platforms.
If you are looking for something new to play, here’s a clear overview of the most important releases coming in January 2026.
A Calm but Promising Start to 2026
After an incredibly packed 2025, expectations for 2026 are high. January may not be the busiest month, but it still delivers several interesting titles. Some releases are especially notable because of their long development cycles or strong fanbases.
Hytale Early Access Finally Launches
Hytale launching in early access this month is almost a miracle. The game was first announced back in 2015 and seemed completely lost after Riot Games cancelled the project and shut down Hypixel Studios in mid-2025.
Fortunately, original studio founder Simon Collins-Laflamme bought back the rights and continued development. The result is an early access release focused on exploration, responsive combat, and building.
At first glance, the Minecraft comparisons are obvious. That makes sense, since the team behind Hytale previously worked on the popular Hypixel Minecraft server. Unlike Minecraft, Hytale leans more heavily into RPG systems and structured content.
Players can also create their own content, including minigames and community servers. The developers do warn that this is true early access, so bugs and unfinished systems should be expected.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons Gets a Switch 2 Upgrade
Animal Crossing: New Horizons returns with a Nintendo Switch 2 Edition on January 15. Originally released in 2020, the game became a global phenomenon during the pandemic and remains one of Nintendo’s most beloved titles.
The Switch 2 version supports 4K resolution when docked, mouse-style Joy-Con 2 controls, and a new in-game megaphone that lets players call island residents. Online play has also been expanded to support up to twelve players at once.
Existing owners can upgrade for a small fee, while new players can purchase the full version. A free content update will also launch for all platforms, adding new features regardless of console.
Mio: Memories in Orbit Delivers Stylish Metroidvania Action
Mio: Memories in Orbit is a visually striking metroidvania from developer Douze Dixièmes. You play as Mio, an android exploring a massive abandoned spaceship overrun by hostile machines.
As you progress, you unlock abilities like wall climbing and gliding, which are essential for navigating the environment and defeating over thirty enemy types and fifteen bosses. The art style draws inspiration from comics, anime, and paintings, giving the game a very distinct look.
Highguard Tries to Prove Itself
Highguard had a rough first impression after being revealed as the final announcement during The Game Awards. Many viewers expected a bigger surprise, and the hero shooter reveal disappointed some fans.
Still, the game has potential. Developer Wildlight Entertainment consists of former Respawn Entertainment developers who know how to build solid shooters.
Highguard is a first-person PvP shooter where players control magical gunslingers called Wardens. Early combat focuses on fighting rival teams, but once the Shieldbreaker is claimed, the match shifts into a raid-style objective where teams attack enemy bases.
Cairn Turns Climbing Into Survival
Cairn is a unique climbing game from The Game Bakers, known for Furi and Haven. You climb Mount Tenzen step by step, carefully managing balance, stamina, and supplies.
Unlike cinematic climbing in action games, Cairn demands precision. A single mistake can send you falling back down. Along the way, you meet other characters and must manage resources like food, water, and medical supplies.
Code Vein 2 Closes the Month
Code Vein 2 wraps up the January 2026 game releases. While the original game received mixed reviews, it sold over three million copies, making a sequel inevitable.
This time, players control a Revenant hunter who trades memories for powerful abilities called Gifts. The story spans two different time periods and introduces Luna Rapacis, monstrous Revenants that have completely lost control.
Combat remains fast and action-heavy, with a fantasy-driven world and anime-inspired style.
All January 2026 Game Releases at a Glance
- DuneCrawl (PC) – January 5
- Hytale Early Access (PC) – January 13
- Streetdog BMX (PC) – January 14
- Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Switch 2 Edition – January 15
- The Legend of Heroes: Trails Beyond Horizon – January 15
- Brokenlore: Unfollow – January 16
- Mio: Memories in Orbit – January 20
- 2XKO – January 20
- Arknights: Endfield – January 22
- Dynasty Warriors Origins – January 22
- Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade – January 22
- Escape the Ever After – January 23
- Highguard – January 26
- Cairn – January 29
- Code Vein 2 – January 30
Final Thoughts
January may be a quieter month, but the January 2026 game releases still offer plenty of variety. Whether you enjoy sandbox adventures, competitive shooters, relaxing life sims, or challenging indie games, there is something worth checking out.
Which January release are you most excited about? Let us know and join the discussion in our Discord community