In the gaming landscape, the period following The Game Awards often sees a lull in major presentations until the summer showcases like Summer Game Fest or the Xbox Games Showcase. However, this year has marked the emergence of a notable event—the New Game Plus Showcase, commonly referred to as New Game+. This initiative, crafted by content creators, aims to rekindle “genuine excitement and conversation” surrounding video game announcements. Uniquely, it does not impose fees on developers for participation, setting it apart from many other industry events. Announced on December 29, the inaugural showcase took place on January 8 at 1 P.M. PT / 4:00 P.M. ET.
Deep Dish Dungeon
This intriguing dark survival game from Pokuch and META Publishing presents an engaging blend reminiscent of Valheim and Prey, combining base-building mechanics with survival elements and mysterious alien powers. Gamers can wishlist it now on Steam, with plans for release on Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC platforms like Steam, GOG, Epic Games, and PS5.
The Blood of Dawnwalker
A captivating gameplay presentation and developer interview highlighted The Blood of Dawnwalker, an open-world fantasy ARPG where players navigate life as a human by day and a vampire by night. The showcase emphasized the dynamic interactions within the game world, which reacts to player actions. This title is anticipated for release in 2026 on Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC, and PS5.
Prologue: Go Wayback!
Brendan “PLAYERUNKNOWN” Greene shared insights into his new survival game, Prologue: Go Wayback!, during the showcase. The game features procedurally generated maps and deeper survival mechanics, currently available on Steam in Early Access for .99, with a free demo accessible for players.
Beautiful Light
A fresh glimpse into Beautiful Light, an extraction shooter inspired by STALKER, revealed intense combat scenarios against mutants and other players, set against atmospheric backdrops. This title is slated for a December 2026 release on PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store.
Project Shadowglass
Starhelm Studios provided an exclusive look at Project Shadowglass, an immersive sim that challenges players to orchestrate daring heists in a dark fantasy realm. Unlike many retro-style pixel graphics games, this title adopts a first-person perspective, enhancing its unique appeal. It is set to launch on Steam, with wishlist options available now.
Aphelion
DON’T NOD showcased Aphelion, a sci-fi action-adventure game featuring an astronaut named Ariane who must navigate a perilous frozen world to rescue her partner, Thomas. The presentation highlighted the game’s musical elements and is expected to release on Xbox, Steam, and PS5 in late 2026.
The Expanse: Osiris Reborn
A developer interview for The Expanse: Osiris Reborn, a third-person ARPG from Owlcat Games, explored character creation and the game’s world responsiveness. Set in the beloved sci-fi universe of the TV show, it promises an engaging experience for fans and newcomers alike.
Distant Shore: BRETAGNE
Distant Shore’s latest title is an action-adventure physics-based puzzle game where players manipulate objects in their environment using magnetic forces. Currently available for wishlist on Steam, it promises to offer a unique gameplay experience.
Avowed
Obsidian Entertainment discussed Avowed, a fantasy RPG set in the Pillars of Eternity universe. The developers revealed updates including new playable races and enhancements to weapon classes. Notably, the game will also be available on PS5, with preorders now open.
Grounded 2
Obsidian also presented Grounded 2, showcasing new insect encounters and various items players can craft. The highlight was the ridable ladybug buggy mount, equipped with a water gun, adding a whimsical touch to the survival experience.
Outward 2
The sequel to Nine Dots’ immersive RPG, Outward 2, is set to challenge players with a more difficult survival experience. The developers shared insights during the New Game Plus showcase, with an Early Access release planned for Q3 2026 on PC.
Forsaken Realms: Vahrin’s Call
Inspired by Fable and The Elder Scrolls, Forsaken Realms: Vahrin’s Call is an open-ended action RPG that emphasizes player freedom and deep interactions within its fantasy world. It is expected to launch on PC in 2026, with console releases to follow.
Dragontwin
Draconic Interactive AB is developing Dragontwin, an open-world strategy RPG that allows players to customize and fly dragons into combat. Currently in Early Access for Patreon supporters, it will be available on PC and consoles later.
Atomic Heart DLC #4
The showcase featured a first-look teaser for the upcoming fourth DLC for Atomic Heart, generating anticipation among fans eager for new content.
The CUBE
Mundfish revisited The CUBE, an MMO shooter set on a massive, rotating cube in the sky. This unique environment promises to shift gameplay dynamics, and players can wishlist it now on Steam.
IMMORTAL: Gates of Pyre
IMMORTAL: Gates of Pyre, an RTS that combines accessible gameplay with complex mechanics, was highlighted in a developer interview. It has been in development for five years and is set to launch on Steam in the future.
ExeKiller
ExeKiller is a retro-futuristic western action game that blends various gameplay styles, offering players the freedom to approach quests in multiple ways. It is currently available for wishlist on Steam.
Far Far West
Developer Evil Raptor is crafting Far Far West, a co-op shooter where players embody robot cowboys tackling bounties. This title is set to launch on PC in 2026, appealing to fans of cooperative gameplay.
Erosion
Erosion presents a captivating open-world roguelike experience with time-looping mechanics and a strong narrative focus, set in a post-apocalyptic Wild West. A playtest is currently live on Steam, with a full release planned for Spring 2026 on both Steam and Xbox.
The Division 2: Survivors and The Division 3
The Division 2 developers showcased the upcoming winter-themed extraction mode, Survivors, while also confirming the development of The Division 3 and a mobile game inspired by the original title.
