Gaming Industry Predictions for 2026: Expert Insights and Trends

The gaming industry is poised for significant changes in 2026, with experts predicting a range of developments, from the impact of AI on hardware to the growth of cloud gaming and the increasing importance of direct-to-consumer initiatives. Grand Theft Auto 6 is expected to dominate the industry, while the Nintendo Switch 2 may struggle to outperform its predecessor. Other predictions include the rise of extraction shooters, the growth of sports games, and the increasing convergence of live sports and games content. The industry is also expected to see more investment, with a focus on angel investment and project funding, as well as increased government support. Additionally, experts predict a shift towards more cooperative games, the growth of user-generated content platforms, and the increasing importance of platform ubiquity.