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20 upcoming exploration games you shouldn’t miss

By Zoe Harmon6 min read
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20 upcoming exploration games you shouldn’t miss

Discover the 20 most exciting upcoming exploration games, from Grand Theft Auto 6 to Elder Scrolls 6, across PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and Switch 2.

If exploration is the heart of your gaming passion, the next few years promise a lineup tailor-made for adventurers. From sci-fi odysseys to medieval landscapes, these upcoming exploration games will take players to breathtaking and mysterious realms. Here's a look at 20 exciting titles set to release on PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and even the highly-anticipated Switch 2.

20. The Blood of Dawnwalker

This title promises a vibrant mix of fantasy and mystery. Set to launch on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S in 2026, it is one to watch for those craving deep storytelling combined with expansive worlds.

19. Chronicles: Medieval

For fans of historical settings, this strategy-oriented exploration game is coming to PC in 2026 via Early Access. Its medieval backdrop aims to deliver a fresh perspective on historical adventures.

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18. Legend of California

Drawing inspiration from the American West, this game offers Early Access in 2026 on PC. Players are expected to traverse richly detailed environments while uncovering untold stories linked to California’s landscapes.

17. Grand Theft Auto 6

A headline-grabber, Grand Theft Auto 6 will debut on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S on November 19, 2026, with a PC version slated for 2027. Promising a larger-than-life urban playground, this installment might redefine modern open-world exploration.

16. The Witcher 4

CD Projekt Red’s beloved franchise is set to return with The Witcher 4. Launching in 2027 for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, fans can expect another dive into morally complex fantasy worlds.

15. Divinity

Details remain sparse for this upcoming title from Larian Studios, but given its heritage, players can anticipate a game that emphasizes immersive storytelling and intricate world-building. Platforms include PC, though the release date remains unconfirmed.

14. No Law

This open-world effort is another mystery shrouded in suspense. Slated for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, its release date has yet to be confirmed.

13. Kena: Scars of Kosmora

A spiritual successor to Kena: Bridge of Spirits, this title lands exclusively on PC and PS5 in 2026. Expect stunning visuals and heartfelt storytelling.

12. The Duskbloods

Switch 2 gets its spotlight with The Duskbloods, set for a 2026 release. Rumored to explore themes of unity and individuality, this game underscores Nintendo’s continued push into narrative-rich adventures.

11. Fable

Fable reimagines the beloved franchise for modern platforms, including PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S. Launching in Q4 2026, the game is poised to deliver high fantasy with Playground Games at the helm.

10. Ark 2

Fans of survival games might already have Ark 2 on their radar. Featuring advanced gameplay mechanics, it’s coming to PC and Xbox Series X|S, though no release date has been announced.

9. Exodus

Set to arrive in Q1 2027 on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, Exodus aims to tackle the post-apocalyptic genre with innovative exploration mechanics.

8. Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement

For fans of gothic aesthetics and side-scrolling worlds, this sequel arrives in 2026 for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S.

7. Chrono Odyssey

Touted as a multiplayer fantasy adventure, Chrono Odyssey arrives on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S in 2026. Rich, time-bending mechanics may be on offer.

6. Clockwork Revolution

Whether you're drawn by the aesthetics of steampunk or open-world quests, this game, set for PC and PS5, remains without a confirmed release date.

5. Lords of the Fallen 2

A reimagined take on its gothic predecessor, Lords of the Fallen 2 is launching in 2026 on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, promising dark-fantasy fans plenty of reasons to explore.

4. Blackfrost: The Long Dark 2

PC players will get their chance to survive frigid environments again in this sequel to The Long Dark. The release date is still unknown.

3. Subnautica 2

The underwater exploration series expands with Subnautica 2's highly-anticipated release in May 2026 for PC and Xbox Series X|S. Expect more aquatic mysteries and dangers.

2. Elder Scrolls 6

Bethesda’s fantasy epic remains shrouded in mystery. Slated for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, this is perhaps the most eagerly awaited exploration game without a confirmed release date.

1. Light No Fire

Coming to PC, this enigmatic exploration game keeps its details hidden for now, leaving fans curious about its central themes and mechanics.


Bonus Games to Watch:

  • State of Decay 3: A survival game for PC and Xbox Series X|S with a focus on community-driven exploration.
  • Stranger Than Heaven: Coming to PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, this title could take storytelling to new heights.
  • Knight’s Path: A mysterious PC-exclusive game with an unconfirmed release date.
  • Forza Horizon 6: Launching May 19, 2026, on PC and Xbox Series X|S, this franchise will expand open-world exploration for driving fans, with PS5 players getting access in the same year.

Whether you prefer fantastical landscapes, urban environments, or the thrill of survival, these games show that exploration remains a cornerstone of gaming innovation. The coming years are shaping up to offer something for every adventurer. Stay tuned as more details emerge about these highly-anticipated titles.

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Zoe Harmon

Staff Writer

Zoe writes about game releases, indie titles, and gaming culture.

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