At Summer Game Fest 2026, video games retreat to the safety of the past

The Summer Game Fest 2026 showcased a strong trend of developers relying on established franchises, sequels, and remakes rather than introducing new intellectual properties. While notable exceptions exist, the overall emphasis on recognizable titles suggests a retreat to safer, familiar ground within the industry amidst financial pressures. This focus on nostalgia and past successes, though generating excitement, raises questions about the future of innovation in gaming.

• GAME The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
• GAME Gen Atlas
• GAME Resident Evil
• GAME Guild Wars 2
• GAME Street Fighter 6
• GAME Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
• GAME Hot Wheels
• GAME Lords of the Fallen
• GAME Attack on Titan
• GAME An Eggstremely Hard Game
• GAME 1666: Amsterdam
• GAME Final Fantasy VII
• GAME Stranger Than Heaven
• GAME Mortal Shell