Gaming in July Fire: Mortal Shell 2 Sold Out, Switch 2 Hits 6M in Japan, Games Before GTA 6

Summer 2026 will be remembered by gamers for years to come. Not because major games were released — but because everyone was preparing for one event: the launch of GTA 6 on November 19. But before that storm, July and August became months packed with exciting game releases, each trying to have their moment in the spotlight before Rockstar grabbed all the attention.

This phenomenon, which the gaming industry calls the "GTA 6 Blackout," has caused studios large and small to shift their release dates. Mortal Shell 2, originally planned for mid-September, moved to August 20. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4, typically released in late November, arrived on October 23. Even The Blood of Dawnwalker from Rebel Wolves decided to launch September 3 — exactly one day before Capcom's new Onimusha.

Mortal Shell 2: When Demand Exceeds Supply

One of the biggest surprises of July 2026 was the incredible success of Mortal Shell 2. This soulslike sequel from independent studio Cold Symmetry launched on August 20 and completely sold out physical Revered Edition copies for PS5 within 48 hours. This happened at a time when Sony announced it would stop manufacturing game discs by January 2028, so high demand for physical copies made perfect sense.

But the Revered Edition wasn't just a game. This version included a steelbook collector's case, physical artbook, art cards, and digital bonuses, all for $70. Both GameSpot and Push Square reported that this edition was completely reserved in many territories including the US, UK, France, and Japan.

The GTA 6 Effect: Why Is Everyone Running?

Let's be honest: GTA 6 is going to be the biggest game launch in history. According to a recent Newzoo report, the game will generate between $3.3 and $5.2 billion in global revenue in the first week after launch. That's more than the entire budget of many countries. Game preorders, which started on June 25, 2026, reached $180 million in the final week of June in the US and 5 major European markets (UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain).

Newzoo estimated using GTA 5 player distribution data that about 69% of GTA 5's console players are in these 6 markets. So applying this ratio, the $180 million regional figure bumps to a global estimate of about $260 million for the first week.

But here's the important point: Newzoo says GTA 6 falls into the "Proven Sequel" category — meaning highly anticipated games with a tried and tested formula and a dedicated audience who won't wait for reviews or price drops. Historically, these types of games have stronger sales curves and their preorders typically account for about 5.8% of cumulative launch week sales.

By this calculation, if first-week preorders reach $260 million, that implies $4.5 billion in sales by launch week. This equals 51 million copies sold at an assumed $88 average selling price (which includes the $80 standard edition and $100 premium edition).

Top July 2026 Games: A List of Hot Releases

July 2026 was a month full of variety. From small independent games to major AAA titles, everything was present this month. Here we review some of the most prominent titles released in July or coming soon:

Denshattack! - The Crazy Train Game That Surprised Everyone

One of July's biggest surprises was Denshattack! — an arcade action game where you pilot a train at impossible speeds and perform Tony Hawk's Pro Skater tricks. Yes, you read that right: a train that does flips and grinds.

Released for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2, Switch, and PC, the game earned critical acclaim. Eurogamer gave it an "Essential" score and said "this game is incredible." Rock Paper Shotgun named it one of the best games of 2026 and emphasized it's not just a novelty, but a genuinely excellent game.

With bright, colorful Dreamcast-style graphics, energetic music, and addictive gameplay, Denshattack! recalls the golden age of arcade games like Jet Set Radio and Crazy Taxi. The game is also available on Xbox Game Pass, which has helped more audiences try it.

Mario Tennis Fever - Free Super Mario Galaxy Update

Nintendo released version 1.1.0 update for Mario Tennis Fever on July 15, featuring Super Mario Galaxy-inspired content. This free update added a new court (Galaxy Court), a new special match, a new Fever Racket, and new colors for Luma.

The game also added GameShare capability through GameChat, allowing players to share the game with friends who don't own it. This is one of the unique Switch 2 features that Nintendo is actively promoting.

Star Ocean: The Second Story R - Switch 2 Version

In a surprising move, Square Enix released the Switch 2 version of Star Ocean: The Second Story R. This action RPG remake, previously released for Switch, PS5, PS4, and PC, is now available for Nintendo's new console with graphical improvements and better performance.

The downside is there's no upgrade path for those who own the Switch version, and save data cannot be transferred between versions. The game is available on the eShop for $49.99.

Octopath Traveler 1 & 2 - Same Story Again for Switch 2

Similar to Star Ocean, Square Enix released Switch 2 versions of Octopath Traveler and Octopath Traveler II — and again without an upgrade path or save data transfer capability. This decision drew heavy criticism from players who had already purchased the Switch version.

However, for those who haven't experienced these games yet, the Switch 2 version offers a better experience with higher frame rates, shorter load times, and improved visual quality.

August 2026: The Month Everyone Was Waiting For

If July was busy, August is insane. This month is packed with major releases all trying to grab gamers' attention before September and October (which themselves are full of AAA games).

Mortal Shell 2 (August 20) - The Soulslike That Sold Out

As mentioned earlier, Mortal Shell 2 launched on August 20 and became one of the year's biggest unexpected successes. Cold Symmetry describes the game as a "dark power fantasy" that significantly expands on the original.

The game features faster and more unforgiving combat, deeper weapon design with extensive upgrade options, and emphasis on free exploration within a compact open world. One of Mortal Shell's unique features is the "Shell" system — you can wear different bodies (Shells), each with their own playstyle and unique combat interactions.

The Duskbloods (August Closed Beta) - FromSoftware's Next Game

One of the most exciting news for soulslike fans is the announcement of a closed network test for The Duskbloods — FromSoftware's next game being developed exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2. This network test runs from August 21-23 and supports 8-player multiplayer sessions.

The registration period runs from July 22-28, and participation requires a Switch 2 system and an active Nintendo Switch Online subscription. FromSoftware says the test will focus on server load, multiplayer problem-solving, and game balance.

The Duskbloods appears to differ significantly from FromSoftware's traditional single-player RPGs, with a focus on multiplayer. It's unclear how much of the game will be available during this test, but it's a great opportunity to see if you want to buy the full version later.

Other August Games

The list of August games doesn't end here. Several other titles are also releasing this month:

• Pro Jank Footy (August 12): An arcade comedy sports game for PS5, Xbox Series, Switch 2, Switch, and PC
• BlazBlue: Entropy Effect X (August 13): Switch 2 version with major content update
• OBAKEIDORO 2: Chase & Seek (August 6): Asymmetric multiplayer tag game sequel
• Volcano Princess (July 30): Daughter raising simulation game for PS5, Switch, iOS, and Android
• IRA (July 30): Switch 2 version of roguelike action shoot 'em up
• Dispatch (July 29): A superhero workplace comedy for Xbox Series X/S that was one of 2025's best games

Nintendo Switch 2: Stunning Sales and Exclusive Games

One of the big stories of summer 2026 is the incredible success of Nintendo Switch 2. According to Famitsu, the console has sold 6 million units in Japan — and that's just one market. Global Switch 2 sales are estimated to have exceeded 25 million units, making it one of the most successful console launches in history.

A significant part of this success is thanks to Switch 2's strong library of exclusive games. Titles like Mario Tennis Fever, Rhythm Heaven Groove (which sold over 500,000 copies), and Final Fantasy Resonance have all helped attract audiences.

Must-Play Switch 2 Exclusive Games

• Mario Tennis Fever: The best Mario tennis game to date with deep mechanics and exciting multiplayer modes
• Rhythm Heaven Groove: An addictive rhythm game that sold over 500,000 copies
• Go-Go Town!: A blend of SimCity and Animal Crossing that boosts your serotonin (and stress!)
• Disgaea Mayhem: The tactical RPG series enters the action genre (with mixed results)
• Denshattack!: The crazy train game we mentioned earlier

But what truly sets Switch 2 apart from competitors is the GameShare capability. Nintendo introduced this feature as a way to share games with friends who don't own them — similar to Xbox Game Pass Family Sharing but with a different approach. You can share your game for a limited time (usually 60 minutes) with a friend, and if they like it, they can purchase it directly through GameChat.

PlayStation 5: Sony's Challenging Year

Unlike Nintendo's success, Sony is having a tough year. The company's decision to stop manufacturing game discs by January 2028 has drawn strong reactions from fans. Every time Sony promotes a game on its social media, it faces a wave of anger from frustrated fans.

This decision affected games like Mortal Shell 2, whose physical copies quickly sold out. Many PlayStation fans now recommend buying third-party and indie games elsewhere — not on PS5.

But Sony Still Has Strong Games

Despite the disc controversy, Sony still has several strong games coming. God of War Laufey is one of the most prominent — the first game in the series not to feature Kratos in the lead role. You play as Faye, Kratos' late wife and Atreus' mother.

The game begins after her death, where she finds herself in the afterlife of gods and magical beings. Deborah Ann Woll, who provides Faye's likeness and voice, said in an interview: "I'm totally unbothered because I just know it's great. It's okay if it's just not your cup of tea, but in no universe is it bad."

Other PS5 games coming:

• Halo: Campaign Evolved: Yes, you read that right — Halo on PlayStation! This is the first Halo game to come to Sony's platform, though the physical version won't play without downloading content
• Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced: Bestselling remake that just received update 1.04
• Crimson Desert: Major RPG from Pearl Abyss that added cross-save
• The Blood of Dawnwalker: Anticipated RPG from Rebel Wolves launching September 3

Xbox: Year of Major Changes

Xbox had a turbulent year in 2026. Microsoft announced a major "reset" in July that resulted in 1,600 developers being laid off — with plans for 1,600 more layoffs on the horizon. That's roughly 20% of Xbox's workforce.

Two Microsoft studios, Double Fine and Compulsion Games, went independent as a result of budget cuts. Ninja Theory and Undead Labs are being sold to new buyers, while Arkane's fate remains uncertain.

The Uncertain Future of id Software and id Tech

One of the most concerning aspects of these layoffs is their impact on id Software. The legendary studio that created Doom lost 136 employees — about half the studio. Many fans are concerned about the future of idTech, id Software's proprietary engine that has powered their games through multiple gaming generations.

Officially, Microsoft says everything is fine and id Software has all the staff it needs to continue making games and working on id Tech. But one anonymous former id Software employee tells a different story:

Five VFX team members were reportedly among the layoffs, leading to an "immense" loss of institutional knowledge. If id Tech is truly being phased out, it would be a major blow to gaming. The engine is known for its focus on creating fast-paced first-person shooter experiences and can deliver high-level graphics and run games at blazingly fast framerates across various platforms.

But Not Everything Is Bad: Xbox Game Pass Remains Strong

Despite the layoffs, Xbox Game Pass remains one of the best values in gaming. The service added several new games in July, including Denshattack!, which earned critical acclaim.

Xbox also launched the Xbox Summer Sale 2026 (known as the Ultimate Game Sale) featuring over 2,000 discounted games. Many recent AAA titles are available with significant discounts.

New Xbox Changes

Xbox introduced 12 new console features in July that were previously only available to Xbox Insider program members. One of the most prominent is longer Gamertags, now available to everyone.

Other changes include improved save data management, clearer error messages, and better controller support. Microsoft is also working on ways to make save data errors "less cryptic and more actionable" — a response to complaints from players who lost their saves in games like Forza Horizon 6.

Looking at September and October: Before the Storm

If you think July and August were busy, just wait until September and October arrive. These two months are packed with massive AAA releases, all trying to launch before GTA 6 on November 19.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 — Direct Competition with GTA 6?

One of the boldest decisions of the year is releasing Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 on October 23 — just 27 days before GTA 6. CoD typically launches in late November, but Infinity Ward decided to come early to avoid the "GTA 6 black hole."

Mark Grigsby, Infinity Ward studio head, said about this head-to-head competition: "It's a lot of pressure to make sure that you're creative enough to entertain the masses. It's a little head-to-head, that's great."

The game features the Kill Block map — a completely new multiplayer experience for Call of Duty. It's an ever-changing arena assembled from hundreds of different map variations. Think of it like a procedurally generated small map. Infinity Ward says over 500 possible variations will exist at launch.

Sony also confirmed MW4 will benefit from PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) and support "increased graphics quality" at 120Hz and 60Hz. The game also supports unlocked framerate when VRR and 120Hz are enabled together. Both PS5 Pro and base PS5 will run the game at 4K, though Sony didn't mention if the game upscales from a lower resolution.

Why Is Everyone Afraid of GTA 6?

The big question is: why are all studios so afraid of GTA 6? The answer is simple: history has shown that every time a GTA game launches, it temporarily wipes out everything else.

When GTA 5 launched in 2013, it made $1 billion in the first 72 hours. No game, movie, or entertainment product had achieved such a figure until then. The game has sold over 200 million copies to date and generated over $8 billion in revenue — more than any other entertainment product in history.

GTA 6 is expected to be even bigger. Newzoo estimates the game could sell 51 million copies in the first week — more than many games sell in their entire lifetime. At an average price of $88, that's $4.5 billion in sales in the first week.

With such numbers, it's understandable why studios prefer to launch several months before GTA 6. When everyone is in Vice City, who has time to play other games?

Sony's Challenge: Discs Are Dying

One of the year's most controversial decisions was Sony's announcement to stop manufacturing PS5 game discs by January 2028. This decision drew strong reactions from physical media fans.

Mortal Shell 2's success with its sold-out physical edition shows strong demand for discs still exists. But Sony is committed to this decision, saying the future is digital.

This decision also affected Halo: Campaign Evolved. The physical version for PS5 won't play without downloading content — a trend becoming increasingly common. Physical media fans are angry, and some recommend buying games on Xbox or Switch, which still support physical discs.

Crunchyroll Joins the Anti-Disc Movement

Sony isn't the only company phasing out physical media. Crunchyroll, Sony-owned anime streaming service, announced it's drastically scaling back its store and transforming it into "a brand-new shopping experience available exclusively for Mega and Ultimate Fans (subscription tiers)."

Instead of physical discs, the Crunchyroll store will focus on "collectibles, curated drops, and limited-release products inspired by the anime series you love." Online reactions to the announcement have been swift and angry, especially from longtime customers who knew it from the Right Stuf International days (which Crunchyroll purchased in 2023).