Game Informer has unveiled its highest-scoring game reviews for 2026, highlighting titles that have risen above the hundreds reviewed annually by the publication. The list features a range of genres, from action horror to narrative-driven adventures and racing simulations, with scores reflecting the critical reception of each game.
Resident Evil Requiem earned a near-perfect score of 9.75, with Game Informer praising it as "a masterclass in refinement and a tour de force of gameplay." The survival horror title was released on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2, and PC on February 27, 2026.
Close behind is Cairn, a mountain-climbing game that also delivers a "deeply affecting narrative of anguish, loss, and the steep cost of obsession," scoring 9.25. It is available on PlayStation 5 and PC, having launched on January 29, 2026.
Forza Horizon 6 received a score of 9.25, lauded for its ability to deliver approachable yet impressive racing action for both newcomers and seasoned players. It is considered one of the greatest racing games of the current generation. The game launched on Xbox Series X/S and PC on May 19, 2026, with a PlayStation 5 version slated for 2026.
Bungie's Marathon also garnered a 9.25, with its excellent audio design, gunplay, and complex level design drawing praise. The shooter is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC since March 5, 2026.
Saros, a game described as an "unequivocal joy" in its moving, shooting, and progression systems, secured a 9.25 and is available on PlayStation 5 since April 30, 2026.
Super Mario Bros. Wonder Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Meetup in Bellabel Park achieved a 9, noted for its continued enjoyment and improvements over its initial 2023 release. It launched on Switch 2 on March 26, 2026.
Several titles received a score of 9. Deadzone: Rogue was recognized for its superb gunplay and compelling mystery within the roguelite formula. Mixtape was celebrated for its stellar writing, concise runtime, and effective use of its licensed soundtrack. Nioh 3 was highlighted for its rewarding open-world design and entertaining ninja gameplay. Paranormasight: The Mermaid's Curse was called a "brilliant modern adventure game" with delightful characters and art. Pokémon Pokopia stood out as an excellent use of the Pokémon license by a third-party developer. World of Warcraft: Midnight was noted for making Azeroth feel more like a home than ever.
Games scoring 8.75 include 007 First Light, praised for its fantastic storytelling that captures the essence of the spy hero. Death Howl was described as a cohesive fusion of deckbuilders and Soulslikes. High On Life 2 offers humor and pointed social commentary. LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight was called a "rain-slicked success" despite minor issues. Mina the Hollower was commended for its nostalgic throwback design that plays like a contemporary game. MIO: Memories in Orbit is a challenging platformer and exploration game that draws inspiration from titles like Hollow Knight and Ori.
Diablo IV: Lord of Hatred received an 8.5, considered an exceptional addition to the base game and a standout action RPG. Fur Squadron Phoenix earned an 8.5, demonstrating that the space combat genre can still flourish. Invincible VS, with its approachability and personality, is recommended for both fighting game veterans and fans of the Invincible franchise.