October 2026 has a broad release slate, from a Star Wars racing game and a new Gears prequel to puzzle adventures, RPGs, horror re-releases and action games. Here are 12 picks, with the listed release dates and platforms; the selection is a watch list, not a complete calendar.
Dates and platform availability can vary by region and may change. Nintendo says its listed dates are accurate at the time of publication; check the relevant local store or publisher page before planning a purchase.
October 6: Racing and a Gears prequel
Star Wars: Galactic Racer
Platforms: PC, Xbox and PS5. Listed release date: October 6.
This Star Wars racing game pairs a single-player campaign with roguelite elements and online multiplayer for up to 12 players. It may suit players who want racing built around repeat runs as well as competitive online play.
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Gears of War: E-Day
Platforms: Xbox and PC. Listed release date: October 6.
This prequel to the original Gears of War is the October pick for players who want to return to the series’ setting and explore events before the first game.
October 9: A puzzle epic and a fantasy RPG return
Order of the Sinking Star
Platforms: Nintendo Switch 2. Listed release date: October 9.
Nintendo describes this puzzle adventure as having more than 1,000 interconnected, hand-crafted puzzles. Its scale and linked puzzle design make it a strong choice for players who like slow, exploratory problem-solving.
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Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen
Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox and Nintendo Switch 2, according to VGC. Listed release date: October 9.
Nintendo describes the Switch 2 release as an expanded fantasy RPG with a new snow-covered region. This is a re-release or expanded edition rather than a wholly new game, and the additional area is its clearest draw for returning players.
October 13: A supernatural Soulslike
Valor Mortis
Platforms: Xbox, PS5 and PC. Listed release date: October 13.
Set in a supernatural take on the Napoleonic wars, Valor Mortis is a first-person Soulslike. That combination of historical setting, supernatural threats and demanding action makes it one to watch for players seeking a different backdrop for the genre.
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October 15: Belmont action and rhythm combat
Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse
Platforms: Nintendo Switch is listed by Nintendo; VGC also lists PS5, Xbox and PC. Listed release date: October 15.
Starring Rose Belmont, this entry emphasizes acrobatic action and exploration. It is a notable choice for Castlevania fans and players drawn to movement-focused combat.
Ratatan
Platforms: Nintendo Switch 2 is listed by Nintendo; VGC also lists PS5, PS4, Xbox and Switch 2. Listed release date: October 15.
Ratatan blends rhythm and roguelike action. Its musical timing gives it a distinct angle on action gameplay, while the roguelike structure is suited to repeat attempts.
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October 16: Three Resident Evil editions on Switch 2
Resident Evil 2 Deluxe Edition, Resident Evil 3 and Resident Evil 4 Gold Edition
Platforms: Nintendo Switch 2. Listed release date: October 16 for all three.
Nintendo’s calendar lists these three Resident Evil releases together. They are editions of existing games, not three new entries in the series; the different subtitles distinguish the Deluxe and Gold editions from the standard-named Resident Evil 3 listing.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.October 22: HD-2D Final Fantasy and motion-control sports
Final Fantasy Resonance
Platforms: Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 according to Nintendo; VGC also lists PC, PS5 and Xbox. Listed release date: October 22.
Nintendo calls it the first Final Fantasy game presented in HD-2D. It features turn-based battles, making it a clear option for players who prefer a classic RPG combat format with a stylized presentation.
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Nintendo Switch Sports Resort
Platforms: Nintendo Switch 2. Listed release date: October 22.
Nintendo says it includes 12 sports using motion controls. It is aimed at players looking for movement-based sports play rather than a conventional story-driven release.
October 23: A new Modern Warfare entry
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4
Platforms: Nintendo Switch 2 according to Nintendo; VGC and GamesRadar+ also list PC, PS5 and Xbox. Listed release date: October 23.
Nintendo lists Campaign, Multiplayer and DMZ modes. The combination gives players several ways to approach the game, from a solo campaign to online play and the DMZ mode.
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October 29: Kung fu, steampunk and cyberpunk
Phantom Blade 0
Platforms: PS5 and PC. Listed release date: October 29.
This action RPG draws on kung fu, steampunk and cyberpunk influences. Its mix of martial-arts action and contrasting science-fiction styles makes it a late-month pick for players who want something outside the month’s established franchises.
How to choose from October’s slate
- For puzzle-solving: Order of the Sinking Star is the clearest fit, with Nintendo describing more than 1,000 interconnected puzzles.
- For rhythm-driven action: Ratatan combines musical timing with roguelike play.
- For RPGs: Final Fantasy Resonance offers turn-based battles and HD-2D presentation; Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen adds an expanded fantasy setting.
- For multiplayer: Star Wars: Galactic Racer lists online races for up to 12 players, while Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 includes Multiplayer.
- For Switch 2 owners: Nintendo’s calendar includes several October listings for the system, but platform availability differs by title. Final Fantasy Resonance is listed for both Switch generations, while Nintendo Switch Sports Resort is listed for Switch 2.
The dates and platform combinations above come from Nintendo Australia’s regional calendar, VGC’s release guide updated September 28, 2026, and editorial selections from PC Gamer and GamesRadar+. Where those listings differ, the distinction is noted beside the game; confirm the local date and supported platform before buying.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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