February 2026 has proven to be an exceptionally crowded month for new game releases, leaving players overwhelmed with options. From the brutal Soulslike action of Nioh 3 to the quirky cat-breeding roguelike Mewgenics, the sheer volume of titles has made it difficult to discern the standout experiences. Here’s a breakdown of some of February’s most notable games, categorized by the specific niche they fill, to help navigate the backlog.
If you love to parry: Nioh 3
Team Ninja’s Nioh 3 has emerged as one of the first critically acclaimed AAA titles of 2026. The game builds upon the established foundations of the Nioh series, applying its demanding combat system to a more open-world structure reminiscent of Elden Ring. Ford James, writing for Polygon, praised Team Ninja’s ability to refine the Soulslike formula, noting that the game “is a more accessible open-world Souls game that, at least combat-wise, has more in common with Sekiro than anything else, and is simultaneously a great entry point to the series.”
If you hate to parry: Romeo is a Dead Man
Suda51’s latest offering, Romeo is a Dead Man, is characteristically unconventional. The game defies easy categorization, blending hack-and-slash action, zombie farming, and comic book-style interludes into a chaotic and visually striking experience. Marloes Valentina Stella’s review for Polygon captures the game’s eccentric spirit: “When this game gets weird, it really gets weird — by the end, you’ll consider it perfectly normal to chat with your own bomber jacket while fondling creepy puppets in an abandoned asylum.”
If you’re young or young-at-heart: Dragon Quest 7 Reimagined
Square Enix’s Dragon Quest 7 Reimagined isn’t a simple remaster; it’s a complete reimagining of the classic RPG. The remake aims for a more accessible and visually appealing experience, transforming the notoriously lengthy original into a more kid-friendly adventure. Mike McWhertor, in his review for Polygon, described the game as “a call to action,” praising its “infectious enthusiasm” and its ability to inspire a new generation of players.
If you miss Newgrounds: Mewgenics
Mewgenics is a passion project years in the making, born from the minds of Edmund McMillen and Tyler Glaiel. The roguelike combines the crude humor and hidden depths of The Binding of Isaac with a surprisingly engaging cat-breeding mechanic. Deven McClure, in her Polygon review, highlighted the game’s ability to balance the juvenile and the complex, calling it a “true feat” and praising its “seemingly bottomless depth.”
If you just want to play ball: Mario Tennis Fever
The Mario sports series has seen a resurgence with Mario Tennis Fever. While its Adventure Mode falls short of expectations, the core tennis gameplay is remarkably satisfying, offering strategic depth and the addition of game-changing Fever Rackets. Oli Welsh, writing for Polygon, described the game as “a superb tennis game,” praising its balance of accessibility, depth, and competitive spirit.
If you’re a Tim Robinson stan: High on Life 2
The original High on Life, with its distinctive humor influenced by Rick and Morty co-creator Justin Roiland, proved divisive. High on Life 2, developed after Roiland’s departure, represents a creative shift for the series. I wrote in my review for Polygon that the sequel “is at its best when it’s moving away from Rick and Morty and moving towards Ratchet and Clank,” praising its inventive setpieces and fast-paced action. The return of Tim Robinson as Creature is a welcome bonus for fans.
If you love orphans: Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties
Yakuza 3 holds a special place in the series for its unique blend of gritty crime drama and heartwarming moments, particularly Kiryu’s involvement with an orphanage. Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties is a remake of that title, and while it makes some controversial changes to the original, it remains a compelling entry in the series. Jen Glennon, in her review for Polygon, acknowledged the remake’s flaws but praised its “truly heinous group of villains” and overall enjoyable experience.
If you hate orphans: Reanimal
Reanimal, from the creators of Little Nightmares, delivers a terrifying and atmospheric horror experience. The game follows a group of orphans navigating a creepy and unsettling world, creating a sense of dread even in its quietest moments. Marloes Valentina Stella’s review for Polygon details the game’s ability to inflict a range of phobias upon the player, ultimately deeming it a “cinematographic masterpiece” despite the discomfort.
If you want to stick it to the man, man: Hermit and Pig
Hermit and Pig’s premise is simple yet captivating: an RPG about an old man and his truffle-sniffing pig. Inspired by Earthbound, the indie game combines quirky combat with surprisingly thoughtful writing, as the duo embarks on a quest to save their town from an evil corporation. Josh Broadwell, in his review for Polygon, praised the game’s message of collective action, noting that it emphasizes the importance of everyone contributing, even in small ways.
If you crave justice: Relooted
Relooted stands out not only for its engaging puzzle design and satisfying 2D parkour but also for its powerful message. The game centers around a group of rebels reclaiming stolen African artifacts from Western institutions, offering a unique blend of sci-fi action and historical commentary. Austin Manchester, in his review for Polygon, highlighted the game’s potential to provide “digital catharsis” and its inclusion of over 60 real-world artifacts.
