The Mid-Year Verdict: Gamers Crown Resident Evil Requiem as PS5’s Top Title of Early 2026

London, UK – As the calendar page turns to the latter half of 2026, the PlayStation 5 gaming landscape has already delivered a formidable array of titles, prompting dedicated players to cast their votes for the standout experiences of the year thus far. In a traditional mid-year review, prominent gaming publication Push Square conducted a comprehensive poll, engaging over 5,400 readers to determine the definitive top ten PS5 games released in the first six months. The results are in, and the battle for supremacy has seen a mix of established titans and surprising new contenders rise to the fore, with Capcom’s highly anticipated Resident Evil Requiem securing the coveted number one spot.

The poll, which featured a robust selection of 50 eligible releases, highlights a vibrant and competitive period for the console, demonstrating both the enduring appeal of beloved franchises and the exciting potential of fresh intellectual properties. While Resident Evil Requiem emerged as the clear leader, the top three was rounded out by IO Interactive’s gritty espionage thriller 007 First Light and Capcom’s ambitious new venture, Pragmata, underscoring a strong showing for narrative-driven and action-packed experiences. This early assessment offers a compelling snapshot of player preferences and sets the stage for what promises to be an even more intense Game of the Year race as the industry’s heavy hitters prepare for their Q3 and Q4 launches.

The Road to the Top: A Half-Year Retrospective

The first six months of 2026 have proven to be a dynamic period for PlayStation 5 owners, marked by a diverse slate of releases that catered to a wide spectrum of tastes. Earlier in the week, Push Square initiated its customary mid-year poll, inviting its global readership to weigh in on their favorite titles. From an extensive list of 50 games launched between January and June, players were tasked with selecting the experiences that resonated most deeply, whether through innovative gameplay, captivating storytelling, or sheer immersive quality.

The poll’s methodology ensured a broad representation of the year’s offerings. Readers were presented with a curated list encompassing everything from highly anticipated sequels and long-awaited new IPs to critically acclaimed indie gems. The sheer volume of participation – exceeding 5,400 individual votes – speaks volumes about the passion and engagement within the PlayStation community. Each vote contributed to shaping a definitive list that reflects the collective sentiment of a significant portion of the PS5 player base.

This period of 2026 has been particularly notable for its strategic releases. Major publishers opted to launch several high-profile titles earlier in the year, a move that often aims to capitalize on less crowded release windows while also building momentum for subsequent marketing cycles. This strategy has resulted in a front-loaded year, providing players with a consistent stream of quality content from the outset. The poll’s results, therefore, serve as a critical barometer, indicating which of these initial waves truly captured the imagination and loyalty of the gaming public. The outcome also sets a fascinating precedent for the official year-end Game of the Year deliberations, hinting at the potential contenders while acknowledging the formidable challenges posed by upcoming releases.

Unpacking the Data: A Closer Look at the Top Ten

The final tally of votes revealed a fascinating hierarchy of player preference, showcasing a blend of established franchises and impressive new arrivals. The top ten, meticulously compiled from over 5,400 submissions, represents the cream of the crop for the first half of 2026.

Here’s how the community ranked their favorite PS5 games so far:

• 10. Dragon Quest 7 Reimagined – 110 votes (2%)
  • The enduring charm of Square Enix’s classic JRPG series found new life with this ambitious reimagining, capturing the hearts of long-time fans and new players alike through its expansive world and poignant narrative.
• 9. Mina the Hollower – 122 votes (2%)
  • From the acclaimed creators of Shovel Knight, Yacht Club Games, this retro-inspired action-adventure delighted players with its intricate pixel art, challenging combat, and evocative gothic atmosphere, proving indie titles can stand toe-to-toe with blockbusters.
• 8. Nioh 3 – 134 votes (2%)
  • Team Ninja continued its legacy of brutal yet rewarding action-RPGs with the third installment in the Nioh series. Players embraced its demanding combat, deep customization, and unique blend of Japanese folklore and supernatural elements.
• 7. LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight – 176 votes (3%)
  • The beloved Caped Crusader returned in brick form, offering a family-friendly adventure that blended signature LEGO humor with an engaging new story set within the expansive Batman universe. Its accessible gameplay and charming character interactions ensured broad appeal.
• 6. Hades 2 – 231 votes (4%)
  • Supergiant Games once again demonstrated its mastery of the roguelike genre with the highly anticipated sequel to its critically acclaimed predecessor. Players were drawn to its stylish art, compelling narrative, and addictive gameplay loop, solidifying its place as a genre leader.
• 5. Saros – 432 votes (8%)
  • A surprising breakout hit, Saros captivated players with its sprawling sci-fi open-world and innovative gameplay mechanics. This new IP from a relatively unknown studio quickly garnered a dedicated following, praised for its immersive exploration and unique narrative approach.
• 4. Crimson Desert – 534 votes (10%)
  • Pearl Abyss’s visually stunning and ambitious open-world action RPG, Crimson Desert, delivered on years of hype. Its intricate combat system, expansive world, and detailed character customization options garnered significant player enthusiasm, positioning it as a strong contender.

The Podium Finish: Deeper Insights into the Top Three

While the entire top ten represents a strong showing, the leading three titles garnered significantly more attention, demonstrating their profound impact on the PS5 community.

3. Pragmata – 705 votes (13%)

Capcom’s enigmatic new intellectual property, Pragmata, has been a topic of intrigue since its initial reveal years ago. Its prolonged, often cryptic marketing campaign successfully built a considerable amount of anticipation, and it seems that the final product more than delivered on that promise. Securing third place with 705 votes (13%), Pragmata has proven to be a resounding success for the Japanese developer.

This unique third-person shooter distinguishes itself with a blend of atmospheric storytelling and genuinely innovative gameplay mechanics. Players have lauded its ability to craft a narrative with genuine emotional depth, often described as having a "heart" that resonates beyond typical sci-fi tropes. The gameplay, characterized by its often "top-notch" execution, merges tactical combat with environmental puzzle-solving and a distinct visual style that pushes the boundaries of current-generation hardware. Pragmata‘s success is a testament to Capcom’s willingness to invest in fresh ideas and take calculated risks, proving that even in an industry often dominated by sequels, a compelling new vision can still capture a huge audience. Its strong performance here underscores Capcom’s strategic brilliance in diversifying its portfolio beyond its established horror and fighting franchises.

2. 007 First Light – 791 votes (15%)

James Bond’s grand return to the gaming world, orchestrated by the acclaimed developers at IO Interactive, was met with an undeniable bang. 007 First Light clinched the second spot with 791 votes (15%), reaffirming the enduring appeal of the iconic spy. IO Interactive, renowned for its masterful Hitman series, brought its signature blend of intricate stealth and compelling action to the Bond universe, crafting an adventure that critics and players alike have hailed as a definitive take on the character.

The game is praised for its "solid, confident storytelling," which delves into the formative years of a more "volatile newbie" Bond. This fresh perspective allows for a compelling character arc, as players witness a rough-around-the-edges agent evolve, making his journey all the more "endearing." While First Light doesn’t necessarily reinvent the wheel, happily wearing its inspirations from classic spy thrillers and modern action games on its sleeve, it masterfully pulls together its elements with an unparalleled "swagger." The "punchy gameplay" combines satisfying gunplay with nuanced stealth mechanics, offering players the freedom to approach missions in true Bond fashion. IO Interactive’s meticulous attention to detail and narrative prowess have not only revitalized the 007 gaming franchise but have also set a new benchmark for licensed adaptations.

1. Resident Evil Requiem – 967 votes (18%)

In a powerful display of its current dominance, Capcom not only secured a top-three spot with a new IP but also claimed the ultimate victory with its revered horror franchise. Resident Evil Requiem stands as the undisputed champion of the first half of 2026, amassing an impressive 967 votes (18%). This triumph speaks volumes about Capcom’s unparalleled handling of its classic horror IP over the past decade, consistently delivering experiences that both honor its legacy and push the series forward.

Resident Evil Requiem has been lauded as a "greatest hits compilation," seamlessly blending the series’ terrifying survival horror roots with the more action-oriented sequences that have become a staple of recent entries. Players found themselves navigating tense, resource-scarce environments reminiscent of the franchise’s origins, only to be thrust into exhilarating, over-the-top combat scenarios where protagonists like Leon Kennedy wield axes against monstrous hordes. The remarkable feat is that the game "nails both aspects," providing a cohesive and thrilling experience. Furthermore, it delivers a "predictably cheesy but engaging Resi story," a hallmark of the series that fans adore. The narrative, while embracing its B-movie sensibilities, manages to captivate players with its twists, turns, and memorable characters. Resident Evil Requiem‘s victory is not just a testament to its individual quality but also to Capcom’s strategic vision, proving that a classic franchise, when treated with care and innovation, can continue to reign supreme.

Industry Resonance and Developer Triumphs

The results of Push Square’s mid-year poll provide more than just a list of popular games; they offer valuable insights into current player preferences and the strategic successes of developers and publishers. Capcom’s dual triumph with Pragmata and Resident Evil Requiem is particularly noteworthy, cementing its position as a powerhouse in the current generation of gaming. This success story demonstrates a balanced approach: fostering new, ambitious intellectual properties while expertly nurturing and evolving its established flagship franchises. The industry will undoubtedly be observing Capcom’s formula closely, seeking to replicate its ability to innovate and capitalize on proven successes simultaneously.

IO Interactive’s resurgence with 007 First Light also signals a significant win for licensed games, often a challenging segment of the market. Their expertise in crafting intricate stealth mechanics and character-driven narratives, honed through the Hitman series, proved to be a perfect fit for the Bond universe. This success could pave the way for more high-quality adaptations of beloved cinematic properties, encouraging developers to approach such projects with a greater emphasis on gameplay innovation and authentic storytelling rather than merely capitalizing on brand recognition. The strong showing of titles like Hades 2 and Mina the Hollower also reinforces the continued strength and influence of the indie scene, proving that creativity and unique vision can still capture a significant audience amidst the AAA juggernauts.

Looking Ahead: Implications for the Game of the Year Race

The first half of 2026 has set an exceptionally high bar, and the battle for the ultimate Game of the Year title promises to be fiercely contested. While Resident Evil Requiem currently holds the crown, the latter half of the year is traditionally packed with the industry’s heaviest hitters. Players can anticipate a barrage of highly anticipated releases, including potential sequels to beloved franchises, groundbreaking new exclusives for the PS5, and innovative titles from both established and emerging studios.

This mid-year assessment underscores several key implications for the gaming industry. Firstly, player polls continue to be a powerful indicator of genuine player sentiment, often reflecting a different perspective than critical consensus alone. Secondly, the diversity of the top ten — encompassing JRPGs, soulslikes, open-world adventures, indie darlings, and horror epics — highlights a healthy and varied gaming ecosystem on the PS5. Developers should take note that quality across genres is appreciated, and there isn’t a single dominant formula for success. Finally, the strong performance of new IPs like Pragmata and Saros is a clear signal that originality, when executed with excellence, can still cut through the noise and capture the collective imagination of the gaming community.

The challenge now lies with Resident Evil Requiem and its fellow top contenders to maintain their momentum against the formidable titles yet to be released. Will a surprise contender emerge from the shadows, or will the early frontrunners solidify their positions by year-end? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: 2026 is shaping up to be an unforgettable year for PlayStation 5 gaming.

What are your thoughts on this mid-year top ten? Do you agree with the collective voice of the Push Square community, or do you believe certain games were unjustly overlooked? Join the debate and share your opinions in the comments section below!