PlayStation 5 is now in its sixth year, a point in the console cycle when hardware is typically nearing transition. Yet Sony has signalled a different trajectory.
The company recently announced a global price increase for the system, citing continued demand and rising manufacturing costs. From April, the standard PS5 will retail at $649.99, up from $549.99. The PS5 Pro has also increased to $900 from $800.
Rather than marking a slowdown, the move shows a platform that remains firmly in demand. With no confirmed timeline for a next-generation successor, the PS5 continues to operate at full momentum.
For those who are considering getting the console or already have one, here are the best-rated game releases of 2026 so far.
1. Resident Evil Requiem
Metacritic score: 89
Key review: “Resident Evil Requiem will very likely be in the conversation for Game of the Year, and it’s not hard to see why.” – Gamer Escape
Capcom’s latest entry builds on the modern direction established in recent Resident Evil titles, blending atmospheric exploration with more action-oriented encounters. The game moves between quieter investigative sequences and moments of heightened intensity, creating a steady rhythm that keeps players engaged.
Its environments are richly detailed and designed to sustain tension. Lighting, sound design and environmental storytelling work together to create unease, while character performances ground the narrative. It is another example of how the series continues to evolve while maintaining its core identity.
2. Nioh 3
Metacritic score: 86
Key review: “Even in a genre as saturated as the Soulslike, nothing compares to the Nioh series, and Nioh 3 stands out as the best in the trilogy.” – IGN Brasil
Team Ninja expands its samurai fantasy with a broader world and more flexible progression systems. Nioh 3 retains the precise, timing-based combat that defined earlier entries, while introducing abilities that encourage different playstyles.
Encounters remain punishing, requiring careful observation and mastery of mechanics. The expanded environments allow for more exploration without sacrificing the tight combat design. It continues to appeal to players who value skill-driven gameplay and technical depth.
3. Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection
Metacritic score: 86
Key review: “One of the most complete and polished JRPGs in recent years arrives as the third entry in the Monster Hunter spin-off series.” – IGN Adria
Unlike the mainline Monster Hunter games, the Stories series leans into turn-based combat and narrative progression. This third entry deepens both aspects, offering a more complex battle system and a story that explores the bond between riders and monsters.
The game introduces regions and creatures while refining its visual presentation. Its pacing allows for a balance between exploration and combat, making it accessible without sacrificing depth. It remains one of the more distinctive entries in Capcom’s broader franchise.
4. Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma
Metacritic score: 85
Key review: “For newcomers to the Rune Factory series, or PS5 owners who've not played this title yet, Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma is a must-play.” – COGconnected
The long-running Rune Factory series returns with a setting inspired by eastern mythology. Players divide their time between cultivating land, building relationships and venturing into combat scenarios that draw on action RPG mechanics.
The game’s strength lies in its balance. Farming, crafting and social interactions are as important as combat, creating a loop that feels varied and engaging. Its slower pace offers a contrast to more intense titles, focusing instead on routine, progression and character development.
5. Super Bomberman Collection
Metacritic score: 85
Key review: “Fans and newcomers alike will find plenty to enjoy in this, and the series’ evolution throughout the Super Nintendo era is something to behold.” – MonsterVine
Konami’s collection revisits one of gaming’s most enduring multiplayer formats. Super Bomberman Collection compiles several classic titles, updating them with modern features while retaining their simple, competitive design.
The core gameplay remains unchanged. Players navigate grid-based arenas, placing bombs to trap opponents. Its accessibility and fast-paced matches make it easy to pick up, while the strategic depth ensures lasting appeal. The collection highlights how enduring the formula remains.
6. The Legend of Heroes: Trails Beyond the Horizon
Metacritic score: 84
Key review: “The Legend of Heroes: Trails Beyond the Horizon not only delivers an epic conclusion to the Calvard arc, but also represents a major turning point in the shared narrative of the entire Trails universe.” – Gamesurf
Falcom’s expansive Trails series adds another chapter, continuing its interconnected storylines and detailed world-building. The game builds on established mechanics while introducing refinements to combat and progression systems.
Its narrative remains a central focus. Character relationships, political tensions and long-running plot threads unfold gradually, rewarding players familiar with the series. It is a game that prioritises depth and continuity over accessibility.
7. BlazBlue Entropy Effect X
Metacritic score: 84
Key review: “The core experience is great, possessing incredible depth that adds to the urge to replay.” – Cubed3
Departing from its origins as a fighting game, this entry reinterprets BlazBlue as a fast-paced roguelike. Players progress through procedurally generated stages, combining abilities and upgrades in each run.
The transition works because it preserves the series’ signature combat style. Movement remains fluid and expressive, while the roguelike structure encourages experimentation. It is an example of how established franchises can evolve into new formats.
8. MIO: Memories in Orbit
Metacritic score: 83
Key review: “MIO: Memories in Orbit boasts spectacular visuals, a gigantic world, a unique atmosphere and addictive gameplay.” – PSX Brasil
Set in a distant orbital facility, MIO: Memories in Orbit follows a lone protagonist uncovering fragments of a lost civilisation. The game emphasises exploration, environmental storytelling and gradual discovery.
Its strength lies in its atmosphere. The setting feels vast and isolated, with visual design and sound contributing to a sense of quiet tension. It favours a slower pace, encouraging players to absorb details rather than rush through objectives.
9. Under The Island
Metacritic score: 83
Key review: “Under The Island is an adorable, challenging and silly action-adventure game that's packed with variety and secrets to uncover. Great stuff.” – Video Chums
This independent title presents a stylised island world filled with hidden areas and subtle storytelling. Players explore at their own pace, uncovering fragments of a narrative that unfolds gradually.
The game’s design encourages curiosity. Its environments are compact but layered with detail, rewarding careful observation. It stands out for its understated approach, offering a calm and reflective experience.
10. Ys X: Proud Nordics
Metacritic score: 83
Key review: “Ys X: Proud Nordics is the definitive way to experience Adol and Karja's maritime adventure.” – IGN Italia
The latest entry in the Ys series builds on its reputation for fluid, real-time combat. Proud Nordics introduces mechanics that allow for more dynamic encounters and expanded exploration across maritime environments.
Combat remains the central focus, with responsive controls and a steady progression system. The game balances speed and accessibility, making it approachable while still offering depth. It continues to demonstrate the consistency of Falcom’s long-running franchise.
