Summer Game Fest season is almost upon us again, which means this year I've entered into my annual ritual of pretending to be cool while actively refreshing livestream schedules. It's my personal Super Bowl, my Met Gala, my annual reminder that I can't, in fact, be normal about video games.
For a short window of time, I believe every studio is going to announce a game tailored specifically to my taste. Here are the biggest games I fully expect, or at least expect, to dominate Summer Game Fest 2026.
Hollow Knight: Silksong DLC
Silksong was one of the most anticipated indie releases in years, and even after a long period of silence from Team Cherry, expectations are high regarding its presence at major showcases.
While there's been no official confirmation of DLC or new content, the game's continued relevance in gaming discourse means it's frequently resurrected at major events like Summer Game Fest or Xbox Showcases. If this happens, the Internet will grow massively. If not, we'll just keep pretending for another year.
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Larian Studios is currently developing a new standalone role-playing game titled simply Divinity. According to the studio, this is their most ambitious project yet and is expected to surpass Baldur's Gate 3 in scope. The game is built on a new, upgraded proprietary engine, marking a major technical and creative step forward for the studio.
While details remain limited, the project represents Larian's next major original RPG following the success of Baldur's Gate 3. Given Larian's history with high-impact showcases, Summer Game Fest would be a logical place for the first major gameplay look or the next movie teaser. I, personally, am emotionally committed to at least three characters that I've imagined based on vibes alone.
Revolution of the clock
Clockwork Revolution has been shown at several Xbox showcases, but still doesn't have a firm release date beyond a general 2026 window.
Developed by inXile Entertainment, the game combines steampunk aesthetics with first-person RPG mechanics and time-shifting story options. Each appearance added more details, but the absence of a specific launch date suggests the summer games could be used to lock down the festival's timing.
An official date announcement will help clarify Xbox's broader 2026 lineup, which is expected to be a key year for first-party releases. Which means I'll immediately start acting like that date is too far away and not soon enough, simultaneously.
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve
Ace Combat 8 recently appeared on European ratings boards under its full subtitle Wings of Theve, indicating that an official announcement is imminent. Bandai Namco has yet to reveal an official gameplay or release date, but the listing strongly suggests that the project is very far along in development.
The Ace Combat series has historically been showcased at major summer events, and Summer Game Fest would be a natural stage for a trailer or gameplay reveal, potentially with confirmation of platforms and launch times. If Summer Game Fest gives us a proper trailer, I'll personally react like an Air Force recruit.
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Halloween: The Game
IllFonic and Gun Interactive recently revealed the first Unreal Engine 5 gameplay trailer for Halloween: The Game with a confirmed release date of September 8, 2026.
The game adapts the iconic horror franchise into an asymmetrical multiplayer experience, with Michael Myers as the central antagonist. Since gameplay has already been revealed, Summer Game Fest could be used to showcase additional maps, mechanics, or post-launch content plans. Given the proximity of the release, it's also a strong candidate for marketing-heavy appearances at summer events. I'm excited for the inevitable phase where people start sprinting down escape routes within 48 hours of launch like their lives depended on it.
fable
The Fable reboot has officially been delayed to February 2027, moving it out of the crowded 2026 holiday release window, along with the expected launch period for Grand Theft Auto 6.
Despite the delay, Xbox is expected to continue offering games in 2026 to maintain momentum and visibility. Summer Game Fest will be a good opportunity to present updated gameplay footage and strengthen the game's world-building and RPG systems. Previous trailers have focused heavily on the cinematic presentation, so fans are expecting a deeper look at the actual gameplay.
Clive Barker's Hellraiser: The Revival
Saber Interactive's Clive Barker's Hellraiser: Revival continues to make steady progress toward a late release window of 2026. A recent developer diary featuring Doug Bradley confirmed that the single-player narrative horror game remains in active development, focusing on its Cenobite mythology and story-driven structure.
Summer Game Fest would be the perfect platform for a new trailer, as it could potentially show more gameplay systems or expanded story elements tied to its horror story.
Monster Hunter Wilds Master/G Rank Expansion
Capcom has confirmed that a massive expansion for Monster Hunter Wilds is in development, similar in scope to the previous expansion Iceborne. Series creator Ryozo Tsujimoto has said that a full reveal is planned for the summer, making Summer Game Fest one of the possible venues for the first official trailer or title announcement.
These expansions traditionally add new areas, monsters, and endgame systems, and they extend the lifecycle of the base game. A reveal will likely be one of Capcom's biggest showcases of the event.
Fallout 3 Remastered
Reports indicate that a Fallout 3 remaster is in development, although industry expectations suggest that it is still beyond the expectations of many fans. While speculation surrounding Shadow Drop circulates online, current information points to a longer timeline, making the Summer Game Fest announcement uncertain.
However, as Bethesda's history surprisingly reveals, this game is one of the most talked-about prospects heading into major showcases. A teaser or approval will also garner significant attention, but a full release is unlikely at this stage. If this happens, it will immediately break the internet. If it doesn't, we'll just reuse the principle for the next six months as if nothing happened.
Witchbrook
Witchbrook is one of the most anticipated casual simulation games currently in development, with Chucklefish targeting a 2026 release window after previous delays. The game focuses on life simulation, magic school system, farming, and social interaction in a pixel art coastal town. It has continued interest due to its super unique aesthetic direction and long development cycle.
Given its current release goals and need for updated gameplay visibility, Summer Game Fest would be a strong opportunity for a new trailer or in-depth gameplay breakdown. If the game is on track for 2026, this may also be where a more specific release date is finally confirmed.
If it finally shows up at Summer Game Fest proper, I'll be very casual about it. Which is to say: I don't act normal at all.
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