The video game scene is buzzing with some big shifts and fresh releases set for 2026. One game to watch is Orbitals, a two-player puzzle adventure game. It features split-screen gameplay and sports a vibrant ’90s anime art style. The visuals are hypnotic, with many cutscenes sprinkled throughout early gameplay. It supports both local and online play, and players can enjoy English dubs as well as Japanese audio. Orbitals will launch on Nintendo’s upcoming Switch 2 console on September 3, 2026.
Meanwhile, the release date for Capcom’s Onimusha: Way of the Sword has moved up. Originally planned for September 25, 2026, it will now come out on September 4, 2026. The game will be available on multiple platforms, including PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and Switch 2. Capcom explained the game will arrive three weeks earlier than expected, giving fans something to look forward to sooner.
Another title generating excitement is Panic’s Big Walk. The company opened signups on July 7, 2026, for this game. It’s scheduled to launch on August 4, 2026. Panic’s approach to signups suggests they want to build a community before release. It will be interesting to see how the game performs with this strategy.
Movies and Console Changes Stir the Market
On the entertainment front, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is set to debut on Peacock on July 30, 2026. This release date was announced back on March 31, 2026, sparking excitement among fans of the franchise. The shift towards streaming platforms for big titles signals how entertainment companies are adapting to changing viewer habits.
Nintendo also plans to stop selling the original Switch in Europe next year. This marks a clear move to phase out older hardware as the new Switch 2 approaches. It’s a sign that Nintendo is gearing up for the future and wants players to transition to the next-generation console.
Industry Ups and Downs: Microsoft and Krafton Moves
On the corporate side, Microsoft is undergoing major changes. The company announced layoffs affecting 4,800 employees. At the same time, Microsoft is selling off four Xbox studios. These moves point to a strategic reset within the company’s gaming division. Microsoft is also testing a disc-to-digital feature, which could impact how games are distributed and played in the future.
In other news, Krafton settled a major dispute with the developer of Subnautica 2. The settlement involved over $250 million. This deal ends a significant conflict and could influence how major game projects and partnerships evolve going forward.
These developments highlight a year of change and new opportunities in gaming. With fresh games, shifting release dates, and big company decisions, 2026 promises to be an interesting ride for players and industry watchers alike.
Based on
- Orbitals is a nostalgic hit of split-screen platforming, puzzles and ’90s anime — engadget.com
- A little peek at Panic’s Big Walk experience. | The Verge — theverge.com
- Super streaming Galaxy. | The Verge — theverge.com
- Onimusha: Way Of The Sword’s Release Date Has Been Pushed Up To Avoid The Pre-GTA 6 Scramble — engadget.com
- Yeehaw. | The Verge — theverge.com
