This past year has been a vibrant tapestry of gaming experiences, with major blockbusters and indie gems emerging almost daily. Players’ cravings for new adventures remain insatiable, as evidenced by the overflowing Steam wishlists that many gamers maintain, brimming with titles poised to elevate the medium even further. As we approach the new year, let us delve into the 20 most wishlisted games on Steam, examining each one with the curiosity of diligent explorers uncovering digital treasures.
20. Vindictus: Defying Fate
Originally launched in 2012, Vindictus may not have been the largest MMO, but its engaging third-person ARPG-style combat captivated a dedicated player base. The upcoming spinoff, Defying Fate, aims to reimagine this classic for a post-Elden Ring audience, emphasizing dodges and counterattacks. If it can capture the essence of its inspirations, it may attract Souls enthusiasts who prefer the thrill of grinding through missions and bosses over exploring expansive open worlds.
18. Reanimal
From the creators of Little Nightmares comes Reanimal, a co-op horror adventure where a brother and sister navigate treacherous landscapes to rescue their missing friends. Building on the success of Hazelight’s titles like It Takes Two, this game promises to deliver a thrilling experience, especially when shared with friends. Just be sure to prepare your companions for a shift from lighthearted games to this chilling escapade.
Reanimal is set to release on February 13, 2026.
17. Mouse: PI for Hire
In a world where graphics are often debated, Mouse: PI for Hire bursts onto the scene with its captivating visuals and engaging gameplay. This title combines the frenetic energy of boomer shooters with the whimsical charm of rubberhose animation, reminiscent of early Disney classics. Players can expect a delightful array of cartoonish weaponry, from shotguns to chainsaws, making for a visually stunning and entertaining experience.
Mouse: P.I. For Hire is slated for release on March 19, 2026.
14. Chrono Odyssey
Chrono Odyssey presents a grand vision of a photorealistic MMORPG, promising players an expansive world filled with action combat and time manipulation mechanics. With features like dungeons, PvP, and crafting, it also introduces the Chronotector, allowing players to rewind time and explore the history of the game world. Such ambitious concepts have garnered significant attention, making it a highly anticipated title.
Chrono Odyssey is expected to launch in Q4 2026.
13. Quarantine Zone: The Last Check
Quarantine Zone invites players into the chaotic realm of zombie apocalypse management, where they must oversee a camp while navigating the ethical dilemmas of survival. This base management simulator, published by Devolver, promises a unique blend of strategy and horror, appealing to fans of games like State of Decay. With its rising popularity, it seems many are eager to see how this title unfolds.
Quarantine Zone is set to release in 2025, though a specific date has yet to be announced. A demo is currently available on Steam.
12. Witchbrook
Witchbrook is poised to enchant the cozy gaming community with its charming pixel art and cooperative life simulation set in a seaside town. Players can expect to embrace their inner witches, flying around on brooms with friends. This delightful premise could serve as a perfect antidote for those yearning for more Stardew Valley-like experiences while waiting for other titles to materialize.
Witchbrook is anticipated to release sometime in 2026.
11. Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era
With a rich history behind it, Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era aims to return to the franchise’s roots, offering a fresh take on tactical RPGs. Developer Unfrozen, known for its homage to Darkest Dungeon with Iratus, is well-positioned to breathe new life into this beloved series. Fans are eager to see if this new installment can recapture the magic of its predecessors.
Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era is expected to arrive in 2026, with a demo already available on Steam.
10. Half Sword
Half Sword straddles the line between humor and the brutality of medieval combat, showcasing physics-based swordfighting that has resonated with players. Its demo has garnered attention at events like Steam Next Fest, highlighting the enduring appeal of this genre. Fans of titles like Chivalry and Mordhau will likely find much to enjoy in this dueling simulator as it prepares for early access.
Half Sword is set to enter early access in Q1 2026.
9. Unrecord
Unrecord has captured the imagination of many with its strikingly realistic visuals and immersive gameplay, placing players in the shoes of a police officer equipped with a bodycam. The game promises intense moral dilemmas and choices that will impact combat encounters, setting the stage for a gripping narrative experience. As the studio’s debut title, anticipation is high, though a release date remains unannounced.
8. Ark 2
Ark 2 has had a tumultuous journey, with delays pushing its release beyond initial expectations. Set to coincide with an animated TV show and featuring Vin Diesel riding a dinosaur, this sequel aims to expand upon the survival crafting mechanics of its predecessor. Despite the chaos surrounding its development, the promise of a grander experience keeps fans hopeful.
Ark 2 currently lacks a clear release date, leaving many to speculate on its future.
7. Blight: Survival
Blight: Survival offers a fresh take on the co-op survival horror genre, inviting players to navigate a monster-infested medieval landscape alongside friends. With roguelite elements and a focus on strategic decision-making, players must weigh the risks of securing their loot against the dangers that lurk ahead. The gruesome combat and dark atmosphere promise to deliver a thrilling experience.
Blight: Survival does not yet have a release window, with developers indicating that it is still too early to provide a timeline.
6. Slay the Spire 2
Building on the success of its predecessor, Slay the Spire 2 is set to continue the legacy of one of the most acclaimed deckbuilding games. With its innovative mechanics and engaging gameplay, it has captured the attention of many players eager for its arrival. Anticipation is high as fans await the next chapter in this celebrated series.
Slay the Spire 2 is expected to launch in March 2026, though a specific date has yet to be confirmed.
5. Kingmakers
Kingmakers presents a wildly imaginative premise: players armed with modern weaponry must travel back to medieval England to aid locals in fending off an impending apocalypse. The scale of battles promises to be epic, featuring thousands of soldiers engaged in chaotic combat, enhanced by co-op gameplay. While initially set for an earlier release, the game has been delayed indefinitely, leaving fans eager for updates.
4. Resident Evil Requiem
The latest installment in the iconic Resident Evil franchise, Requiem, is generating excitement among fans. With its chilling atmosphere and engaging narrative, it promises to deliver the suspense and thrills that the series is known for. While it may not reinvent the wheel, the consistent quality of recent titles ensures that players have much to look forward to.
Resident Evil Requiem is scheduled for release on February 27, 2026.
3. Light No Fire
Hello Games, known for their ambitious projects, is back with Light No Fire, a fantasy survival adventure that promises a vast world akin to Earth. After the transformative journey of No Man’s Sky, expectations are high for this new title. With years of development behind it, players are hopeful that it will live up to the grand vision presented in its trailers.
No release date has been announced, but the game has been in development for seven years, suggesting a wait may still be in store.
2. Deadlock
Deadlock stands out as a unique entry on this list, as it is already playable in an invite-only test phase. Valve’s latest MOBA combines elements of competitive shooting with strategic gameplay, introducing innovative mechanics like slide-jumping. As the game continues to evolve, players are eager to see how it develops into a polished final product.
While no clear release date is available, the game is progressing steadily, and public testing may be on the horizon.
1. Subnautica 2
Subnautica has long been celebrated for its stunning blend of survival, exploration, and atmospheric tension. Following the success of its predecessors, Subnautica 2 is positioned to captivate fans once again, provided it can match the high standards set by its lineage. Amid ongoing legal disputes, the anticipation for this title remains strong, as it takes the top spot on many wishlists.
Subnautica 2 is set to enter early access on Steam in 2026, promising an exciting return to its underwater world.
