Games Releasing in January 2026: The Month's Highlights

The year 2025 was extremely busy in the gaming world, with many major titles released to players. Although the pace drops somewhat as we enter the new year, the January 2026 game calendar is not completely empty. A range of games awaits us, offering diverse experiences from indie productions to big studio projects.

This month, a wide variety of games launch, ranging from action RPGs to survival-horror genres, climbing simulations, and anime-inspired Souls-like experiences. If you're wondering "Which games are releasing this month?", let's take a detailed look at the new titles players will encounter throughout January 2026.

One of the standout titles of January is undoubtedly Code Violet. Developed by TeamKill Media, this game offers a third-person sci-fi survival horror experience.

The story centers around Violet Sinclair, trapped in a mysterious facility outside of time. Players try to survive in the dark facility called Aion Bioengineering Complex, where dinosaurs and genetic experiments run rampant. Limited inventory management, environmental puzzles, and threatening enemies combine the classic survival horror feel with a modern design.

Developed with Unreal Engine 5, the game is visually ambitious. Atmospheric lighting, detailed environment design, and tense sound design make Code Violet one of the prominent horror games of January.

Platform: PS5

Release Date: January 10, 2026

The Game Bakers's Cairn is designed for those seeking an unconventional survival game. Known for original titles like Furi and Haven, the studio now focuses entirely on climbing mechanics.

Players attempt to climb Kami Mountain's summit for the first time as professional climber Aava. What distinguishes Cairn is not just the goal but the journey itself. A wrong step, incorrect equipment use, or poorly planned route can result in death.

The game emphasizes endurance management, proper use of climbing gear such as pitons, and adapting to environmental conditions. Cairn offers a patient, strategic, and attentive experience over action-centric gameplay.

Platform: PS5, PC

Release Date: January 29, 2026

Bandai Namco's anime-style action RPG series Code Vein returns with its second game at the end of January 2026. Code Vein 2 features a dual timeline narrative, taking place roughly 100 years after the first game and covering events from the past.

Players take on the role of a Revenant Hunter and together with new character Lou, who can transcend time, try to prevent a looming disaster. Upgraded Forma abilities, a deeper partner system, and motorcycle exploration segments bring significant new features to the gameplay.

Maintaining its Souls-like structure, Code Vein 2 aims to satisfy fans of the genre with challenging enemies, tactical combat, and dark atmosphere. The anime aesthetic-infused action deepens in this sequel.

Platform: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC

Release Date: January 30, 2026

Although January does not have major AAA explosions, it draws attention with titles that offer original ideas and niche experiences. Horror atmosphere lovers can look to Code Violet, those seeking a realistic and challenging experience can try Cairn, and action RPG enthusiasts can check out Code Vein 2.

The first month of the new year serves as a small preview of what the gaming world will offer in 2026. January 2026, heralding bigger releases in the coming months, provides a calm but quality start.