The Lead: Since 2021, Sony has made it a tradition to kick off February with a State of Play that glimpses into the months ahead. This year was no exception, resulting in one of the most wholesome and unforgettable showcases we’ve seen in years.
Introduction
Usually, when a State of Play is announced, I keep my expectations low. In the PS5 era, these streams often lean heavily on third-party titles or indies we’ve already seen, rarely offering a true “megaton” surprise. Fortunately, this February’s broadcast was an absolute blast. From indie gems to legendary returns, here are the games that grabbed my attention and had me jumping out of my chair.
The Vital Announcements
- Kena: Scars of Kosmora [2026 | PS5, PC] Even though the first game is still sitting in my backlog, I am incredibly hyped for this sequel. Ember Lab looks to have done a masterful job staying true to the original’s spirit. Between the breathtaking scenery, fluid combat sequences, and that signature “dark fairytale” atmosphere, this is a clear standout. Expect it in late 2026 (likely Q4) on PS5 and PC.
- 007: First Light [May 27, 2026 | PS5, XSX|S, Switch 2, PC] I’ll be honest: previous teasers didn’t quite hit the mark for me. However, this State of Play trailer completely flipped my perspective. It’s radiating massive Uncharted 4 energy, and it is officially back on my radar. I have high hopes that IO Interactive will deliver the definitive Bond experience.
- Silent Hill: Townfall [2026 | PS5, PC] Last year’s Silent Hill f didn’t quite grab me—schoolgirls fighting monsters just isn’t my vibe. My heart belongs to the SH2 Remake, and Townfall delivers exactly those same haunting chills. A first-person perspective using a portable CRT device instead of a radio? I’m totally in. Coming later this year to PS5 and PC.
- Untitled John Wick Game [TBA | PS5, XSX|S, PC] The show’s biggest curveball. While we only saw a CGI trailer with some fixed gameplay action, seeing John Wick kick ass in his signature style was deeply satisfying. As a prequel, we’ll explore the assassin’s violent origins and finally see how he earned the “Baba Yaga” moniker. Saber Interactive, you officially have my attention.
- Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse [2026 | PS5, XSX|S, Switch, PC] As a Metroidvania devotee, I couldn’t ignore this. A brand new 2D Castlevania? Absolute day-one buy. With the Dead Cells team at the helm following their brilliant “Return to Castlevania” DLC, the franchise is in the best possible hands. I can’t wait for the return of the series that (alongside Metroid) defined an entire genre.
- God of War: Greek Trilogy Remake [TBA | PS5] Rumors of a God of War collection have swirled for years, but we all expected simple remasters. Instead, we are getting full-blown Remakes. Seeing that logo and hearing that iconic score sent my hype into overdrive. The only catch? TC Carson confirmed development is in the early stages, meaning we are likely 3-4 years away from playing it. PS5 or PS6? Only time will tell, but the hype is officially real.
- God of War: Sons of Sparta [Out Now | PS5 (Digital only)] Sony had “one more thing” up their sleeve (as if a GoW Trilogy Remake wasn’t enough). In partnership with Santa Monica, Mega Cat Studios announced and shadow-dropped Sons of Sparta, a 2D Metroidvania prequel. Following the journey of a young Kratos and his brother Deimos in ancient Greece, this is a brilliant addition to the lore. The best part? You can go buy and play it right now.
The Rest of the Story
These weren’t the only games that kept me glued to the screen. The show featured several titles I’m excited for, though they didn’t make the “Hype List” simply because we’ve seen them before.
Resident Evil: Requiem looked fantastic, but I’ve seen enough—I just want the controller in my hands. We also got a deep dive into Control: Resonant, showcasing an outstanding gravity system that looks like a 2026 game-changer. Additionally, the Ghost of Yōtei: Legends expansion was announced, bringing that addictive 4-player co-op formula to the new setting. Saros, the successor to Returnal, also showed off its advanced combat—proving it will be a cornerstone of the PS5 library when it drops in a few months.
The remainder of the show, while “unimportant” to my personal tastes, still held weight. Highlights like Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 2, Legacy of Kain: Defiance Remastered, and the Rayman: 30th Anniversary Edition are great for preservation, though I’ll likely wait for them to hit PS Plus Extra before diving in.
Final Verdict
It has been years since a State of Play got me this energized. Between the jaw-dropping reveals and a calendar full of release dates, 2026 is shaping up to be a historic year for the industry. I truly can’t wait to see what else these developers have hidden up their sleeves.
