The 11 most exciting video game releases of July 2026

As I sat in my small apartment, surrounded by gaming paraphernalia, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement wash over me. July was finally here, and with it came a slew of highly anticipated video game releases. The gaming world has been abuzz with news of a remake of Assassin's Creed, a couple of new Nintendo exclusives, and the debut of Halo on PlayStation 5. But it's not just about the big-name titles, there are some intriguing new video games worth saving your money and time for.

One such game is Rhythm Paradise Groove Expert, the first new entry in the Rhythm Paradise series in over a decade. This Nintendo Switch exclusive promises to be the biggest entry in the series so far, with 80 rhythm minigames to master. But what sets it apart from other rhythm games is its unique blend of turn-based role-playing games and multiplayer modes. According to the developers, Rhythm Paradise Groove is Nintendo's final first-party exclusive for the original Nintendo Switch, at least that we know of. As the company continues to support the console alongside the Switch 2, fans of the series can expect a fresh take on the classic formula.

The game's eccentricities are likely to appeal to fans of Tomodachi Life, with its quirky sense of humour and offbeat charm. A free demo is available, covering five of the single-player minigames, giving players a taste of what's to come. While it may not be a heavy hitter come launch, Rhythm Paradise Groove's oddball nature might just earn it some new fans.

Another highly anticipated release is Doom: The Dark Ages Revelations, an expansion for Doom: The Dark Ages. While it may not be a standalone game, it promises to be a sizable piece of DLC, continuing the plot of the base game. Players can expect new levels, a fancy new spear weapon for Doomguy, and a batch of new demon enemies to battle. But what's most interesting is the free update to the game's Ripatorium arena mode, which adds further customisation options and new maps, weapons, and enemies for those who clear the Revelations DLC.

As the summer games drought begins to take hold, these releases offer a glimmer of hope for gamers. While the release schedule may not be as packed as some might have hoped, there's still plenty to get excited about. With Rhythm Paradise Groove's unique blend of rhythm games and RPG elements, and Doom: The Dark Ages Revelations' promise of new levels and gameplay mechanics, July is shaping up to be a summer of possibilities.

• Rhythm Paradise Groove Expert releases on July 2 for Nintendo Switch
• Doom: The Dark Ages Revelations releases on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC
• A free demo for Rhythm Paradise Groove is available, covering five single-player minigames

As I look forward to the release of these games, I can't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. The summer games drought may be in full swing, but with Rhythm Paradise Groove and Doom: The Dark Ages Revelations on the horizon, there's still plenty to look forward to. And who knows? Maybe these releases will be the start of something big, a new trend in gaming that will leave us all eagerly awaiting the next big thing.